I currently have a 92 Camaro RS with the pig 305 TBI in it. I want to upgrade to a 350 and right now I have a 350 block out of a 1972 Chevy truck. Its casting number is 3970010, which I have looked up and says its a block used from 68-80 in Corvettes, Camaros, and trucks. I am told its out of a 72 truck, and based on the numbers I am going to believe it. It is bored .30 over and bare other than the pistons and crank. I want to build it like an Lt-1 out of the 92-96 Vettes and I am not sure if I can do that with this block. I am told the first generation Lt-1 is a different block than the second generation Lt-1 block and I am not sure if I can do this or not. The differences I was told is that the older block has a 73 degree angle and the newer blcok has a 90 degree angle, making it use different bolt pattern heads and a different manifold. Is it still possible to build something similar to the 92 Vette Lt-1 or do I need a new block. Also, if you have any suggestions, feel free to help me out, I am new to building engines. I am looking to still comply with CT emissions and build a motor that is at least 300 hp. Lastly, should I be getting subframe connectors for this car in doing this. Thanks. (The block I have is a 4-bolt main)

 

The car needs subframe connectors, even with a V6.

If you are going to try to pass emissions, then you need to start with an LT1 engine, complete. You will also need the PCM from the car that the engine came from.

Your block can be used in a TPI conversion, but it's more trouble than it's worth to completely make an LT1 out of it. You can probably sell what you have and then buy a used setup from the wrecking yard.

Or you could buy a complete TPI engine and then use your 350 as the base for that.

Either way, you are missing the advantage of the factory roller lifter block and the one piece rear main seal. Since you are at the beginning, now is the time to get the proper package together before assembly.

Hope this helps.

 

Welcome aboard thirdgen.org.

I'm not sure about the strictness of the CT emissions, but if it's look for a cat and sniff the exhaust, you won't have too much trouble. If they look at casting numbers, that's a different story (but they probably won't).

If you want an LT1 like the '92-'96 Vettes, that 010 block is the wrong place to start. The main issues are the coolant flow direction and the location of the "distributor". Although people have managed to put LT1 heads on older blocks, it's a lot of work and expense that can be avoided simply by buying a complete LT1 engine.

So, if you want an LT1 like the '92-'96 Vettes, get a complete LT1 engine and control system. They are plentiful on places like eBay and craigslist. They were also in '93-'97 f-bodies, and with iron heads and slightly detuned in Caprice, Roadmaster, and Impala.

If you want to go ahead and build your 010 block, you can do that with TBI, or convert to a TPI system. The TBI forum has a good approach documented in the top section sticky about a budget 350.

{Edit: Looks like Kris beat me to it.}

 

Thank you very much for your help...I think I may try to unload what I have and look for the LT-1 motor out of a vette or f-body. I am looking for the cheapest way to 300 hp and to pass emissions, so it looks like the lt-1 is the way to go. Would you agree that this is the easiest way to go, or do you think I should just try to conver to TPI (Or if I did TBI, would I be able to pass emissions with that block, I believe it is just the sniff test. I really appreciate the help.

 

Man, there are a lot of ways to 300 HP, but I wouldn't say any of them are "easy". Although my carb'd 350 wasn't bad at all. It just gets more difficult when you're starting with TBI.

This summer I decided I wanted to go with a T56. I was trying to decide between keeping the current engine and hopping it up a little, go with a LT1 w/T56 which would require some upgrades to even have the power I have now, or go with LS1/T56. After doing all the math, I decided just biting the bullet and going LS1/T56 was the best approach - for me. It isn't going to be easy or cheap, but I'm sure I'll like the results. (Of course, now I've gotten a whole different car to do the LS1/T56 swap. )

It's practically a trade-off with regard to difficulty doing the LT1 swap or getting a TBI up to 300 HP. I think, though, that overall the LT1 is the better engine of those two.

What transmission are you planning on using? LT1/T56 combos can be had.

 

I was planning on using the stock 5 speed transmission from my car, but I also have the opportunity of purchasing an LT1 from a 96 Vette with that transmission. The other option I am looking at now is getting an LT1 from a Camaro or Firebird and maybe beef up the heads and cam a bit to achieve more horsepower. (I would love to do an LS1 swap and make it a six speed, but that is outside of my budget right now.)

On a slightly seperate note, I have headers my 305 now and I was wondering if these will bolt right up to the Lt1 350?

If I decide to do the LT1, I will be looking to unload the 350 block that I currently have, if you or anyone you know is interested. It is a 72 Chevy 350 bored .30 over. The block is bare other than crank and pistons.

 

Your headers will bolt to the LT1 heads. You might want to check the port alignment - depending upon what headers you have, the header port might not be as big as the LT1 ports.

The T5 isn't all that strong. If you can swing it, go with the T56.

You can list the 350 on the Classifieds forum.

 

The headers I have are 1 5/8" Edelbrocks. Will these fit the LT1? I sure hope so, because I do not want to have to buy new headers now too. I may look into a new transmission as well, if I am going to do it, I might as well do it right.

 

I do know that the LT1 from the 1990's is very different. It uses reverse cooling and is set up for a gear driven water pump and a gear driven opti spark ignition system. I have one in my 1994 Z28 and it is one hell of an engine. Your best bet is to find a 1993-1997 camaro with an LT1 at a salvage yard. As long as you get the engine and all the wiring you should save yourself money and headaches. The swap into 3rd generation Camaros has become common and the aftermarket for this sort of swap is available also. One more thing, dont pay more than $600 for a complete LT1 engine unless you have a warranty. Personally I would take a 350 TPI from a 3rd generation Camaro and build the hell out of it. It is cheaper and you have more options, and you know what you have when you're done. just take a look at summit's website they offer a ton of rebuild kits for these enginesfor a very fair price. Good luck man