So i read over a couple of threads regarding LS1 and LT1 swaps. When i bought my car, an LS1 swap was in my plans. I have since then decided that a nice 350 TPI for my 92 RS would work fine. She is my daily driver while i am in college. Dont get me wrong, some day i might do an LS1 swap. But that will have to wait untill i am done with school, have space to park my car, and have another daily driver. My 305 TBI has a 145xxx miles and is getting a bit tired..lol. SO....i am just looking for some answers to general questions. I am sure that these questions get asked alot, so i am sorry if this thread sounds rhetorical to some of you senior members. Im just putting together a plan, and need a clear path to follow before i go out and buy stuff.

So here goes:

When looking for a donor car, it can be tough to find one with some what low miles. I understand that IF i do come across a good donor car, i will need the block, TPI, and ECM. With that i can get the block machined and cleaned up. Pistons, cam, heads, the whole 9 yards.

Now...lets say that i choose to go with a crate engine.

1) What 350 block should i look for? As in, which block from GM for example, is a close or exact replacement for the L98 350 TPI?

2) Lets say i find a crate engine. As far as i understand, i would have to find a TPI w/intake and ECM from a L98 car, and NOT a LB9..correct?

3) Now..lol..lets say that i have my crate engine, and my correct TPI and ECM from a donor car. With a crate engine, i will have to have the ECM from the donor car re-programmed correct? How difficult is this?

I have a mechanic here in town that i trust. He has a professional business and his work on my car has been very satisfactory thus far. HE will be the one performing the swap since i myself do not have the space, tools and ALL the propper knowledge to do an engine swap. I can change out water pumps, intake manifolds, and other general tune ups..lol..but an engine swap is a bit of a leap for me. But just because someone else will be doing it, i would still like to know my stuff before i go and set a plan in motion with a mechanic. And with your answers, i can ask my mechanic the right questions, and make sure that he can re-program an ECM, or atleast knows someone who can.

So im sorry that this is such a long and drawn out thread. Its just time for a fresh block, and i would like to do it right the first time. Thanks in advance for reading and any advice is MUCH appreciated.

Chris.

 

Buuuuuuuler.....Buuuuuuuuuler....Buuuuuler?..lol...anyone?