The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop LS3 swap questions

Hey guys. I have a 51GMC 1/2 ton PU. I bought it from a body shop that used it for parts. Not much more than a cab and frame when I got it.

I've got a 2010 camaro LS3 with 6 spd that I plan to install. I have not been able to find any pics of an LS3 in one of these trucks. Would anyone know if the firewall needs to be recessed, tranny tunnel installed? My cab is on a rotisserie so it's impossible to do a trial fit.

I am installing a mustang II front suspension so the old gear box is gone.

I would mock things up. You have many other issues to work around such as brake and clutch pedals / linkage, steering shaft from column to rack and pinion. Each piece of the puzzle affects other pieces of the puzzle.

I agree that it needs to be mocked up. I guess I'm curious as to how radical the modification has to be. Having built a Factory Five Cobra, I am scared there will be no room for the drivers feet and 3 pedals. (ask me how uncomfortable that is for a 6'-2" guy) Having measured the width of the LS3 (I believe it is similar to a 350 in size) it comes out to around 23-24" wide. If you recess the firewall that wide, it eats into where the accelerator pedal should go. It would be peace of mind if I could find someone who fit the engine into the stock engine bay without pushing the firewall back. I'm probably over thinking this at this point…
Jerry

A straight six is a longer engine than a V-8. So the problem would more likely be fitting things between the fenders rather than firewall clearance. Depending, of course, on where you mount the engine. But a V-8, with room for a fan up front, should take up less room back to the firewall than a straight six.

Here's a blown 350 in a AD truck. Lousy picture, but you should be able to get the idea about dimensions.

This truck has an LS3 and the fire wall looks stock to me. A bit tight between the fenders. There may be some pics there that will help you. http://dc-classic-cars.ebizautos.co...up-thrift_master_3100-used-12245406.html . (I hope it's OK that I linked to an ad)

Thanks guys!
After seeing those pictures I feel confident that the only issues I may have will be the transmission tunnel. So for now, while the cab is on my rotisserie, I will shave the firewall at its current location and complete all the other welding, media blasting and epoxy priming. The tunnel can be installed after I get it on the frame and start mocking up all the other cut-outs I will need to put back into the firewall.

I'm feeling much better!

You're doing a fully custom setup, so only you can answer those questions. If you mount the motor correctly you shouldn't have to recess the firewall.

My dad has a 454 in his '52 with the stock firewall, so your LS should fit just fine.

Maybe you want to remove the gas tank from the cab and gain a few inches.