Hi,

As far as I know, the only difference between the LB9 and L98 is the dimensions in the cylinders. So basically, could I just take out an LB9 and drop in an L98 and drive it away, no questions asked, or are there a lot of finnicky little things you have to do, like with the LS1 swap?

Also, two other questions not completely related to engine swap- Is the LO3, with the exception of the injection setup, basically the same as the LB9? And is there any company that makes aftermarket stainless steel fuel tanks for 3rd gens?

Thanks for any help.

 

LB9=L98 minus 45 cubic inches? Almost true. Different injectors, different PROM, different knock sensor. The '86-'89 system won't care a whole lot because it's an MAF system. But, the '90-'92 system is speed density, and it gets real finicky about things such as displacement changes.

The LO3 and LB9 share shortblock minus the cam. Cam, heads, exhaust are different, with the LO3 being some pretty lame stuff.

 

Don't forget that you will need to change the fuel pump for the TPI. Your car will not rn without the swap. You need the higher pressure pump to feed your engine through 8 injectors.

Yor wiring will need to be modified as well as your computer and chip.

I've done 4 successful swaps and it never is just a straight R&R job. It's the little things that will get you frustrated but just hang in there cause the outcome is well worth it.

Good luck!

CALIROCZ28

 

He's taking out an LB9. Pump's the same, wiring's the same. If MAF, computer doesn't need to be modified, but it does help to get the most out of it (which is true with a stock L98 as well).

(FWIW, it's not 8 injectors of TPI vs. the 2 of TBI that requires a pump change - it's 45 psi vs. 9 psi.)

 

By the exhaust being different between the LO3 and the TPI engines, I assume you mean I would have to get an aftermarket exhaust setup if I went from a 305TBI to a 305/350TPI? I'm sorry if this should be in the exhaust section. If it should be, can a moderator please move it? Thanks.

 

That's okay, since it's swap-related.

So, which are you really taking out, an LB9, or an LO3?

Aftermarket exhaust would be my recommendation, since although the factory LB9 exhaust is superior to LO3, the aftermarket will still be better.

 

At the time, I'm not taking anything out. This was more just to gather information for the future. But you did answer all the questions I had, so thanks.