Carbed 6.0
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Joined: Mar 2026
Posts: 2
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From: MN
Car: 1985 Camaro Z28
Engine: 305ci LG4
Transmission: T5 5-speed
Carbed 6.0
Hey everyone,
I have this kind of random build idea for my 1985 Camaro. It currently has an LG4 in it with some upgrades, a cam, exhaust, intake, and an upgraded carb. I really like carbureted motors and their simplicity. My motor is fine, but I'm looking to start building something for down the road. I am hoping to do a carbed LS swap. Most people would pick the 5.3, but I want to do something a little different, and I've been looking at the Gen 3 6.0L(LQ4, LQ9).
What I'm wondering is, has anyone done a swap like this? Is there anything specific to look out for with these plans/hopes? I'm not looking for crazy power numbers, just some reliable fun. The other thing I'm curious about is what you would use for bracing. Most of the strut tower bracings I see being used with the 3rd gens would interfere with the carb, so what is everyone doing for bracing? I might have more questions as I get more in depth to this pipe dream, but these are just my immediate first wonders.
Thanks all!
I have this kind of random build idea for my 1985 Camaro. It currently has an LG4 in it with some upgrades, a cam, exhaust, intake, and an upgraded carb. I really like carbureted motors and their simplicity. My motor is fine, but I'm looking to start building something for down the road. I am hoping to do a carbed LS swap. Most people would pick the 5.3, but I want to do something a little different, and I've been looking at the Gen 3 6.0L(LQ4, LQ9).
What I'm wondering is, has anyone done a swap like this? Is there anything specific to look out for with these plans/hopes? I'm not looking for crazy power numbers, just some reliable fun. The other thing I'm curious about is what you would use for bracing. Most of the strut tower bracings I see being used with the 3rd gens would interfere with the carb, so what is everyone doing for bracing? I might have more questions as I get more in depth to this pipe dream, but these are just my immediate first wonders.
Thanks all!
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 13,748
Likes: 560
From: Cincinnati, OH
Car: '90 RS
Engine: 377 LSX
Transmission: Magnum T56
Re: Carbed 6.0
Yes this has been done, many many times and its well documented here on this site so you should be able to search around and get all of your questions answered. As far as bracing, any 3 point strut tower brace should clear the carb. Anything designed for a TBI set-up will clear a carb. I would focus on other items that your swap will need before a STB. Namely, fix the stuff that's already broken and worn out (suspension) and look for an upgrade to your brakes. An LS swap will expose every weak spot on your car.
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 328
Likes: 85
From: Pearland, Texas
Car: 1985 Firebird & 1992 Camaro B4C 1LE
Engine: 310 LS1. & 305
Transmission: TH350 & T5
Axle/Gears: 9" 3.73
Re: Carbed 6.0
An STB is going to likely be something custom. Find a roll cage fabricator to build something for you after you get the car running. That way, you'll know where/what size the air cleaner is going to be. We currently don't have one on our CP car, but do have a 6-point cage that's tabbed to the A- and B-pillars as well as welded in SFCs. The car seems pretty stiff that way. I DO want to do a STB, and will probably have a friend who does cages fab something up.
In case you're thinking so, running a carburetor is NOT a way to save money on the setup. The expense and hassle are still there, they're just different than EFI.
In case you're thinking so, running a carburetor is NOT a way to save money on the setup. The expense and hassle are still there, they're just different than EFI.
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