Transmissions And Trans MountsHeino's LS1 is a modified '00 Corvette engine mated to the aftermarket version of the Camaro T56 six-speed transmission. The aftermarket and OE version of the T56 are nearly identical, except that the OE model is set up for the correct LS1 Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) and the late-model electronic speedometer. Since first-gen Camaros run cable-driven mechanical speedometers, Heino figured it would be easier to adapt a VSS than to modify his speedometer. To get around the VSS problem, he turned to Speed Scene Wiring, which offers the correct speed sensor and cable connection to use an OEM T56.
The stock T56 also moves the shifter location 6-7 inches back from the original Camaro location. This requires opening a new hole in the trans tunnel, as well as repositioning the interior console farther back, which is easy. If your Camaro is equipped with the rare bench seat, this might be difficult. The aftermarket version of the T56 places the shifter between the stock T56 position and the original four-speed location.
Radiator And Cooling FansOftentimes, modern engine swaps serve up complicated cooling-system problems. Not the LS1-Camaro transplant. A stock Be Cool replacement radiator for first-gen Camaros fits nicely, and the electric fan/shroud assembly from a C5 Corvette can be adapted to fit with very minor modifications. As for radiator hoses, you'll need to wander through your local auto parts store, bent coat-hanger-pattern in hand, to find what you need or make a custom-bent length of tubing with short rubber connections on each end.
The Brain: Power Control ModuleRegardless of which LS1 you choose, you must use the PCM that is intended for your specific motor. No mixing and matching allowed here. Unlike earlier TPI/TBI computers, the LS1 PCM is housed in a weatherproof box, which allows it to be mounted in the engine compartment. Once you have the conversion complete, it would be wise to have the PCM's flash memory reprogrammed for your application, especially if you've changed the cam. Computer software re-programmers allow tuners to tweak nearly every aspect of engine management, from deleting unnecessary codes, such as vehicle antitheft, to fine-tuning fuel mixture for optimum performance. Two companies that offer this service are LS1 Edit and The Turbo Shop (TTS), with software that allows you to modify the stock fuel and spark calibration.
While it's impossible to cover every detail and nuance involved in an engine swap, the LS1-into-Camaro swap is like all such projects: It requires patience, planning, and a willingness to see it through. The accompanying photos and captions will demonstrate that any skilled car crafter can pull off this conversion. And why not? Combining Chevy's best-ever musclecar with its best modern powerplant is surely worth the effort.
Finding An LS1Since the first LS1s appeared nearly seven years ago, plenty of wrecking-yard engines are available. The only problem is, they're a hot item. LS1s complete with accessories and computer can be had for between $5,000-$7,000 at local wrecking yards. The online auction giant eBay always has several LS1 bidding wars brewing at any one time, especially since this site has become a convenient marketing tool for salvage yards. A quick eBay search while putting this story to paper found six complete LS1 engine/trans combos up for auction.
GM Performance Parts also offers an LS1 engine kit (2553422). Based on the Camaro/Firebird production LS1 engine, the kit includes exhaust manifolds, an automatic transmission flexplate, a wiring harness, and a computer that will operate both the engine and an electronically controlled 4L60E automatic transmission. No matter where you find your LS1, it's wise to get a complete engine/transmission, or a "conversion" package. That way you'll have all the little, but essential, parts necessary to complete the swap, including the correct computer.