I have found many links referencing an article on how to retrofit LT1 heads to work on an old block; http://www.lt1intake.com/LT1_retrofit.htm but I can't get that link to work. LT1 heads are reverse flow, so would an electric water pump that pumps in reverse flow work with them? Or is the design of the older blocks that much different in terms of cooling channels? If not does anyone have detailed information how to accomplish this retrofit or could point me toward a link that's not broken?

Thanks in advance,
- Brad

 

the second gen block (lt1) has 4 ports where the water pump mounts,
the upper two ports redirect incomming coolant directly to the cylinder heads, the coolant travels down the block and back to the pump via lower ports

since the first generation block has only one port on either side of the block
the water pump pumps the coolant into the block first

as for the retrofit of lt1 heads, i remember reading some article and the process involves blocking coolant passages on the outer sides of the head
many debated the cost vs gain of working with lt1 heads or getting aftermarket heads

 

While Im not sure of all the problems you would encounter when trying to put On LT1 heads on Im almost positive you will have some problems. Your best bet would be to buy some aftermarket Heads and enjoy more horsepower and better flow.

 

Yeah I just bought a nice set of Dart Iron Eagles, so I don't have to worry about the retrofit headache, guess that means I have a complete LT1 for sale then.

 

Don't waster your time. You can buy better heads than the LT1's for what it would take to make them work.

 

guess so. Dart makes great heads. enjoy.

 

If you were still interested, the link is here http://www.thirdgen.org/techboard/tp...eads-gen1.html
But I agree, might not be worth it.