Hi,

As referenced from my earlier posts, I'm planning an LSx/T56 swap. I'm curious as to what "specialized" tools I will need.

From a handyman's perspective, I have what I consider to be a well stocked toolbox. I have screwdrivers, wrenches, a torque wrench and different adapters out the wazoo, pliers, saws, router table, etc. But like I said, a router table and the like are more of handyman's tools, not tools for an engine swap.

So, what tools besides basic hand tools will I need for my swap? About the only things that come to mind after looking through the documented swaps are an engine lift and some kind of floor dolly to roll the engine/transmission/K-member around on before you drop the car over it... Any suggestions there? And what other tools would be advisable?

P.S.- I'm really tired now, so if my question doesn't make sense, let me know and I will edit it. Thanks much.

 

I've found a set of car rollers to be really handy. Makes moving the car around in the shop alot easier.

 

Aside from the obvious I would consider these Must haves;

1. Floor jack and four high axle stands or some decent safe alternative ( ie. ramps )

2. Angle grinder _ harbor freight sells em for twenty bucks ( sometimes on sale for 10 ) This is used for so many things. Cutting and grinding your way to a perfect build. Follow up the angle grinder with ZIP cuts ( thin cut off wheels thinner the better ) and for disks I recommend Walter brand. Worth the extra coin for good disks IMO they last ten times longer than ten cheapos. Also going to want a couple grinding disks and a couple of decent flap disks.

3. Mig welder. Thats MIG ( GMAW ) not flux core. I like Lincolns

4. Soldering iron, heat shrink sleeves, harness tape ( not electrical tape its different you want HARNESS tape )

Theres probably more but its late and I'm done for tonight. Good luck

 

Thanks for the replies everyone.

What, specifically, would be the best device to use to move around the K-member/Engine/Transmission assembly? A trans jack? And if so, what weight limit should I get one with?

Thanks.