I am putting an LT1 in my 86 IROC, and was told the engine I purchased was from a 97 Camaro. Most of the identifying marks agree with that but the heads are 1996, and it has a vented Optispark. Was the dealer correct in telling me it is a 1997 engine?

 

Model years begin in august, so yes you can get a 97 that was built in summer of 96. Parts surplus and shortages lead to minor year change overs. For the most part, 96-97's were the same so whats the problem?

 

I am looking for the PCM pin out diagram for this 1997 engine. Are the 96 and 97 the same in those PCM connectors? So I know what to look for. Thanks

 

Google it, cant think of a more common search

94-95 are OBDI, same pinout
96-97 are OBDII, same pinout as prev, but a few pins added

 

Doing a 97 Firebird engine in my car I found that shbox.com is the best for the diagrams. Do watch thou some of his diagrams show for a 95, you have to do a lot of rechecking and digging to make sure you get it right.

 

Do you mean vented to atmosphere, or has the vacuum/fresh air purge?