Looking at buying an '89 Formula. I'm a nerd and would like to make it a Knight Rider replica, but would first like to drop an LS7 into it.

So, the question: Has anyone dropped an LS7 into their car yet? I was thinking of doing an LS7/4L60E, but didn't know what type of rear diff gearing to go with. I know I'll have to change damn near everything axle and suspension-wise... any suggestions? Thanks

 

Same exact deal as installing an LS1 or an LS2, exterior dimensions and mounts are the same. However if you're going to use a 4l60e i would bulk it up severely since they don't handle much more than 350hp for any length of time.

12 bolt rear would also be mandatory for something like this.

Now as far as my opinion, I would not get an LS7 for this. You're talking a 10-15k engine in a 5-10k car. There are cheaper ways to make the kind of power you want. But if that's really what you want to do, go for it.

 

Don't think anyone has done it but it wouldn't be too hard, just plumbing the dry sump.. as mentioned above though you can get more for less. Depends on the goals, if you plan on rebuilding everything then it may be worth it.. IMO an LS7 deserves a completely rebuilt/fresh car as a platform.

When I first did my LTx swap I replaced everything.. all told it was in the range of 10-15k after all was done.. everthing that rotated was replaced. Now another 5k into my new rebuild and counting.

I would put a six speed behind it with a 12bolt and 4.10 gear.

What is the total end goal for the car?

 

My overall plan is to build a really sweet Knight Rider Replica that is super-unique (and will hopefully sell for a good deal of cash if need be). So, my plan would be to:

-Take the body off to be media blasted/painted
-Media blast/powdercoat the frame
-Build the new frame with new engine mounts/x-members/axles/suspension/427/tranny etc (including new tubular A arms, etc)
-Remount body
-Complete Knight Rider replica

It will definitely be a slow-moving project as I don't have $40K to just drop on it. I'd love to have a 6spd manual, but it doesn't fit with the whole Knight Rider replica template. Are there any automatic trannys that can hold up to a 505hp engine? I may have to get a different LSx engine.

 

IF this is your plan then dont waste the extra coin on an LS7 it wont give returns. If your plan is to sell then get an engine already built ( any LS1 will do for now ) and swap it is well built and cheap as you can. You will lose your shirt if you drop an LS7 into a third gen. Right now they are the hot motor everyone wants so if you want to sell and make money choose another car... like a first gen

 

Agree with above..

I built my car with the intention of never selling it since getting the money back is an iffy proposition.

You can get a 4l60e that will hold up.

 

These cars are unibody. There is not a full frame that you can just take the body off of. You will need to blast and paint the whole car after you take everything off of it.

If you look underneath you will be able to see the "Frame" rails that are welded to the bottom of the body.