V-6 Swaparoo
I was wondering if you could do an article about swapping an LSX into a '98-'02 V-6 Firebird. I am sure a lot of people out there would like to put an LS1, LS2, or LS3 in, including myself. I own a 2000 Firebird coupe with an auto and V-6. It is starting to get a few miles and I would like to drop in an LSX. I'd like to know what I would need to do the transplant such as crossmembers, mounts, if the stock trans would hold up, suspension, etc.
-Derrick Wagers
London, KY
A new K-member, motor mounts, accessory brackets, wiring harness, PCM, and fuel system are just the beginning. We used a V-6 car as the basis for The Purp, however, swapping an LSX into a fully-equipped streetcar is a whole different animal.
Intake Testing
Scott,
Just going through some intake manifolds for my 2000 LS1. I see Edelbrock came out with a new intake. Have you done any research on this yet? I've checked their website and it doesn't give much info on it, just a 30hp gain. Just wondering if it's worth looking at.
Thanks,
-Gary Them
Bloomingdale, IL
If you are referring to the Pro-Flo XT manifold, then no, we haven't and it will be under future consideration. It is designed for the 1,500-7,000-rpm range, unlike the popular Victor Jr., so it should be suitable for a streetcar. We have yet to hear whether this intake will fit under the F-body cowl, but its dimensions are available online, so it shouldn't be too hard to figure out. The LS6 intake manifold really is hard to beat for a stock-cube streetcar. Check out our test (in this issue) of the FAST LSX intake and 102mm throttle body on a cam-only LS1 to see what I mean.
Hey Shorty
I have a Corsa catback and a VaraRam CAI (cold air induction) on my '09 G8 GT. I also have a nitrous kit I am going to install. My question is are shorty headers worth the money since the stock cats are so lousy? Thanks for the advice,
-Bruce Bennett
Ada, OK
Only you can decide that. It has been said that of all LS applications, the G8 GT is among the most in need for a manifold and exhaust upgrade. With the gains that long-tubes typically see, it is generally a harder sell for shorties in this market, but if there are other concerns (such as emissions compatibility) there is something to be said for taking the gains wherever possible.
Camaro Now
When is the new Camaro Now magazine due out and where can I find it?
-John Costello
West Mifflin, PA
The first issue hit stores last October 12 at most major retailers. Distribution is over 115,000 copies, so it should be pretty easy to find. Look for two new issues April 19 and October 4.
Mail
Please send all letters to: scott.parker@soRC.com, or mail to: GM High-Tech Performance, 9036 Brittany Way, Tampa, FL 33619. All letters are presumed for publication and GMHTP reserves the right to edit all letters.