Recently picked up a 1991 z28 and it came with l96 engine and e78 pcm from 2011 gmc. Is there anyway I can get this engine to work with the 700r4 for now? Is there a better pcm to use? I’m doing this on a budget but I’m confused with the setup with 58x and transmissions. Older ls1 dbc pcm with lingenfelter 58x to 24x converter? What’s the best way to do this?
I know psychically I can get the 700r4 to bolt
up to the ls engine.

 

the 700r4 is not computer controlled. You just need to make sure the tv cable geometry is correct where you mount it to the TB. You may need a module for the lockup solenoid

 

I’m willing to switch out to 4l60 and e38. Does that sound better for a swap?

 

4L60E is better for a swap

I'd skip the GM ECMs and run a holley terminator

 

if i use an ls1 ecm for the swap does the VVT need to be deleted? or will it run? didnt want to open it up until i get it running first and swap cam later.

 

LS1 is an early 24x GEN III engine. Those use the older red/blue and green/blue PCMs and can run 4L60E (08 and older), 4L80E and non computer controlled transmissions. They are not compatible with later 58x engines. No early LS ever had VVT, so the function is not available for these PCMs

You can use the ligenfelter 58x to 24x box on a 58x engine and an older PCM. There's a few other required changes too, but it is possible. Those conversion boxes suck though
A better method is to pull the crank and put a 24x reluctor wheel on it. Swap the cam sprocket from 4x to 1x

To use a 58x engine without a conversion box, you need a 58x GEN IV ECM. E38 and E67 are the most common. 4L60E (all), 4L80E, 6L80E/90E are compatible. You must use a DBW TB. GM ECMs can control VVT, but most swappers delete it

Or run a holley terminator X max. Any LS engine, any 4L60E/80E (no 6L80E/90E), any TB type. Plus the tuner suit is much more user friendly. VVT control is an add-on system, which again most people skip

Holley does offer a 6L80E/90E controller add-on for the terminator system. It's pointless though because it used the GM TCM which requires HPTuners to unlock/tune in addition to the holley system. By that token, just run the GM ECM

That should cover the full gambit of LS control systems, engine and trans combos along with VVT