Please forgive me if this has already been discussed. I could not find it. What I am wondering is if anyone has installed a newer EFI computer controlled engine in their classic Chevy?

I am basically starting from scratch with my 67 El Camino. I do have the rear end done. I have a 12 bolt posi 3:73, lift bars, air bags, 50/50 drag shocks and a tall 275/60/15 tire. I am wanting to install something reliable for a daily driver, be able to cruise the hwy without winding it out, and be able to take to the track and click off some low to mid 12 second passes.

I was wondering if I should convert to a modern set up instead of finding an old fashion big block set up. I know a guy who has a running 454 with T400 set up complete for $1600 turn key. Should I wait and do the modern 4.8 or 5.3 swap instead? I don't want to spend a ton of cash either. Anyone have any thoughts/ideas/experiences?

Thanks in advance for your help!

-Don

as someone said, the ls engine is a race engine for street cars. easy to work on, well thought out, and powerful.

I did the 5.3. Dont even mess with the 4.8 unless it is free. I would really try to get a 6.0, but the 5.3 with some performance mods will get what you want. Any swap for 64-67 will be very similiar the frames are the same. You are going to end up paying 1500-2000 for the motor (unless you know someone), another 2500 for all the computer mods, brackets, wire harness work, exhaust, headers, oil pan if you dont do any of it yourself. The wire harness can be done by you IF you take the time. Take a look at the two following links I have listed below.

http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=260132

You can also go to http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/conversions-hybrids/1009784-lsx-into-64-72-gm-body.html

Thanks for the input and the links! I will check it out.

I would say that anything over $1000 is too much for the 5.3's available these days. Seems like $800 can get you a solid motor $1200 could be a solid motor and tranny.

:yes:
In the process of swapping a 5.3L into my '67 Sedan right now...


I paid $1K for the '05 LM7 5.3L...out of a totaled Z71 automatic with 47K miles on it. Came complete with harness, ECM, and all front accessories.

Gathering parts now...have a Comp custom ground hyd cam, a pair of reworked -243 heads, a BN set of late style LS lifters, GM's muscle car pan kit, S&P headers, Edelbrock RPM intake, Holley black fuel pump, and the GM adapter flex plate kit.
The MSD 6010 ignition box should arrive tomorrow.
I plan on using the fresh TH400 presently in the car and the 5.3L will be carbed. I'm hoping I can even use the truck mechanical clutch fan.

I should have clarified that in my post the 1500-2000 comment was all inclusive; meaning engine, trans, harness, computer, etc. I bought mine from a junk yard that specializes in transplants and they let me get anything and everything off of the vehicle pertaining to my swap that I wanted, I had all day in the yard (the pulled the eng, trans, and harness) to get what I want.