Engine swap choices
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2024
Posts: 2
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From: Tennessee
Car: 1992 Camaro RS
Engine: 3.1 ( hopefully 5.7 soon)
Transmission: 5 speed manual
Axle/Gears: ?
Engine swap choices
I've got a 92 with a 3.1 getting ready for an engine swap I have 2 choices the first is a 96 5.7 liter vortec and the second is an 04 5.3 out of a running driving suburban. A rebuild will be done on the 5.7 with modifications made to fuel delivery and upgraded cam . The 5.3 is still in my suburban and awaiting my decision. I would like to retain the 5 speed manual tranny that's in the car now. I would like any suggestions on builds for these motors.ive had this car a long time and can't wait to drive again after sitting for 15 years because a poor rebuild on the 3.1 that's in it now.
PLEASE HELP.
PLEASE HELP.
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 10,404
Likes: 2,081
Car: '89 Firebird
Engine: 7.0L
Transmission: T56
Re: Engine swap choices
It's all the same work either way.
The T5 transmission is not very strong, it might be short lived for this world if you try to use it with a cammed 350 vortec
The truck LS engine isn't going to just drop in place. You will need a front accessory drive from a car, shorter intake manifold, and shorter oil pan.
The T5 transmission is not very strong, it might be short lived for this world if you try to use it with a cammed 350 vortec
The truck LS engine isn't going to just drop in place. You will need a front accessory drive from a car, shorter intake manifold, and shorter oil pan.
Last edited by QwkTrip; May 17, 2024 at 08:59 AM.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2024
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Tennessee
Car: 1992 Camaro RS
Engine: 3.1 ( hopefully 5.7 soon)
Transmission: 5 speed manual
Axle/Gears: ?
Re: Engine swap choices
Well the 350 vortec is not in a car it's on a stand ready to be modified. Thus is more than likely the engine that will be used since the 5.3 in the suburban still runs just needs oxygen sensors and a battery to be road worthy. So if the T5 is not going to be compatible what would be the recommended manual tranny to use on this application. I may possibly install a turbo aswell for a bit of an extra kick.
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 13,748
Likes: 560
From: Cincinnati, OH
Car: '90 RS
Engine: 377 LSX
Transmission: Magnum T56
Re: Engine swap choices
If you want to keep it a manual your best bet is a T56. LT1 style for the Vortec, or LS1 style for the 5.3. You can also go aftermarket but be prepared to spend either way you go. Don't worry about a turbo or anything other than what you want out of the car and what you're willing to spend.
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