I am going to be picking up a 66 that was originally a 4 speed bucket car. I'm not opposed to making it an auto but would like to stay manual if possible. I have been looking at LS1 and LS2's from gtos and trailblazers. This is going to be a daily driver and I would like to do it on a budget. What is the best GM newer fuel injected engine and transmission that I should put in this car? It needs to be super reliable, get decent gas mileage, and have a little bit of power to pass. I dont need something crazy or off the wall, this is to be replacing a honda accord. :D

I was thinking something like this but need some serious opinions from experts. I know about the LS tech websites and such but really need some initial direction.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Parts-Accessories_Car-Truck-Parts-Accessories__5-3L-Vortec-Aluminum-Block-Engine-LS6-Heads-LS1-Intake_W0QQitemZ260317794774QQddnZPartsQ20Q26Q20Ac cessoriesQQadiZ2865QQddiZ2811QQadnZCarQ20Q26Q20Tru ckQ20PartsQ20Q26Q20AccessoriesQQcmdZViewItemQQptZM otors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item2603177 94774&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245&_trkparms=72%3A543|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1318

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Parts-Accessories_Car-Truck-Parts-Accessories__04-2004-PONTIAC-GTO-6-0-LS1-ENGINE-SWAP-6-SPEED-LS2-WS6_W0QQitemZ110325193566QQddnZPartsQ20Q26Q20Acces soriesQQadiZ2865QQddiZ2811QQadnZCarQ20Q26Q20TruckQ 20PartsQ20Q26Q20AccessoriesQQcmdZViewItemQQptZMoto rs_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item1103251935 66&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245&_trkparms=72%3A543|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1309

I'd go 5.7 LS1/T56 :thumbsup: With a mild/stock cam & heads, and 3.42 to 3.73 gears, you should have no problem getting 25+mpg, and it would be priced somewhere between that of the 5.3 and the 6.0 initial cost.

The 6.0s seem kind of expensive for the extra cubes compared to the 5.7s, and their gas mileage isn't as impressive either. I just picked up an LS1/T56 combo for $2850. There's deals out there. :)

Thanks Derek. I knew you had experience in these matters. If you dont mind I will be picking your brain. Where do you recommend I start looking? Local junk yards?

Ebay :) Lots of people getting laid off, and needing cash. :o It's a buyer's market right now.

I don't have much LSX experience, but did install an LT1 in my car (which will soon be removed for the recent LS1 purchase :yes: ) There's some good topics in the Pro-Touring section with LS transplants. :cool:

I'll second the LS1/T56 combination. My boys have had a number of Trans Ams and Camaros and the LS1 is a great engine, light years ahead of the LT1. They are smooth, powerful and economical to drive.

The T56 is a good trans as well. The only problem we've had was a high mileage one that needed synchros. I threw a rebuilt kit in and it's been trouble free ever since.

The only hassle that you may run into is fitting the T56 under the tunnel. It will likely require some modification to fit.

Tom

What about the oil pan, will it all fit in the car? Are there motor mounts and other related parts out there for an easy swap? I would like to look into doing this also, but not for a few more years.

the stock F-Body oil pan will fit, depending on who's mounts you use,there are lots of companies that make kits for the swap, I'm putting an LS1/T56 in my 64....i chose to use 68+ frame mounts and made my own block adapters, i did have to raise my tranny tunnel about 1.5" to clear the T56, if you're opposed to this a 4L60E will fit with only "minor" clearancing...good luck

A "Classic" Chevy deserves a genuine Chevrolet-design engine.

A "Classic" Chevy deserves a genuine Chevrolet-design engine.A "classic" Chevy deserves the best engine Chevrolet ever had to offer. :yes: