73-87 4x4 Chevy Truck Ls Swap Guide
The 73-87 Chevy trucks are classic American pickups that are still popular amongst truck enthusiasts to this day. One popular modification for these trucks is swapping out the original engine for an LS engine. This guide will provide an overview of the LS swap process for a 4x4 Chevy truck from 1973-1987.
Why LS Swap?
The LS engine is a modern, fuel-injected engine that offers more power, better fuel efficiency, and improved reliability compared to the original engines found in these trucks. It's also easier to find replacement parts for LS engines and there's a vast aftermarket support for them.
Engine Selection
There are many different LS engines to choose from, but some of the most popular options for a 4x4 Chevy truck include the LS1, LS2, LS3, and LS6. It's important to choose an engine that will fit within the engine bay and work with the existing transmission and drivetrain.
Mounting the Engine
Once the engine is selected, it's important to mount it in the engine bay correctly. This may require custom engine mounts and adapters to fit the LS engine into the existing mounts.
Transmission Compatibility
The original transmission may not be compatible with the LS engine, so it's important to choose a transmission that will work with the LS engine and the existing drivetrain. The most common transmission to use is the 4L60E, which is a four-speed automatic transmission.
Wiring and Electrical
Wiring and electrical work is a crucial part of the LS swap process. The original wiring harness will need to be modified or replaced to work with the LS engine and its components. This may require some custom wiring work and knowledge of electrical systems.
Fuel System
The fuel system will also need to be upgraded to work with the LS engine. This may require a new fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel pressure regulator to ensure that the engine is receiving the correct amount of fuel.
Cooling System
The LS engine produces more heat than the original engine, so the cooling system will need to be upgraded. This may require a new radiator, fan, and hoses to ensure that the engine stays cool under heavy use.
Exhaust System
The LS engine will require a new exhaust system to work properly. This may require custom headers and exhaust pipes to fit the engine and its components.
Final Steps
Once all of the components have been installed and modified, it's important to test the engine and make any necessary adjustments. This may include tuning the engine to ensure that it's running at its best.
Conclusion
The LS swap process for a 4x4 Chevy truck may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, it can be a rewarding project. The LS engine offers improved performance and reliability compared to the original engine, making it a popular choice amongst truck enthusiasts.