im new to the GM field. i transfered over from 5.0Slow field.

ok what is the trick to getting aluminum/cast iron LT1 heads to work with a TPI? how is the reverse flow coolant compensated? there is alot of deals on LT1 aluminum heads on ebay. i would like to take advantage of this.

 

Hello,

I've done some research into this myself. I'm currently trying to make it work (I'm putting a LT1 intake and heads on a regular 350). However, forget about reverse cooling it. The LT1 engine utilizes a special block design which splits the coolant flow at the water pump. Making it impossible to utilize this on a regular sbc.

As far as the TPI going onto the LT1 heads, you would need to have the TPI intake redrilled for LT1 bolt angle.

Another problem is in the heads themselves. The LT1 head has no provision for the coolant to crossover the intake manifold. And it would take considerable modifications to install one. Negating the cost benefit. Also the head surface has larger coolant holes possible causing a problem there.

BUT! You may be able to make it work by using some regular sbc head gaskets modified slightly for the LT1 head. Then have your intake redrilled.

This would leave only the coolant routing left to tackle. You have two options. I'm currently flirting with the idea of drilling the ends of my LT1 heads and tapping them for a larger 1/2" pipe fitting. Which would allow me a place to pull the coolant out of the head. Now for your options. You could either run a remote thermostat housing or drill and tap your current intake by your thermostat on both sides to simulate the normal coolant routing. Then just run a hose between them.

Good Luck!

Hope this gives you some ideas. These are my ideas and wish me luck on my project!

 

that sounds like a headache!!! do you think it would work?