This weekend I picked up a LT1 and A4 out of a '97 Z28 with 70K miles. It's replacing a 229 and it's auto tranny in a 1980 Camaro. The engine ran strong when pulled out of the donor car. I'm trying to decide what to do while the engine is still out and I have good access. Plugs and wires for sure. Electric waterpump..............probably. New opti............well........not sure. New front seals sounds like a good idea.

Now here is where I depart from the original scope of the project. Yes, the slippery slope. Original plan was to put a good, strong modern engine into a car I love to drive. So I plan on getting an LT1 and A4 and keep it stock except for bolt ons; headers, true duals, CAI, and possibly an electric water pump because I like the one on my '97 Z28.

Back to reality..............While I'm changing the front seals it sure would be easy to slide a cam in. Then later, maybe this time
next year, put on some heads that will allow the engine to breath better and will take full advantage of the cam. By the way, I'm thinking LT4 Hotcam kit.

I got the engine and tranny, radiator, fans, all A/C parts, computer, harness, and instrument panel for $1400. I figure another thousand for exhaust, water pump, and a cam kit would still be a pretty good bargain for the whole package, especially if you conside that it was going to cost me $1500 to get the little 229 rebuilt.

Any opinions about this plan? I plan to use the car for fun, and occasionally a daily driver. I have a '91 Firebird that is my current daily driver. My '97 Z28 is becoming my really fun car.

 

Just a thought...

You know that the engine mount bolt patern is different on lt1's.

You probably did I just thought i would piont this out.

 

If you had a 229, I'm your springs are going to be hating you! Maybe rob his front springs while you're at it. (if they even fit)

 

I'll be doing some work on the suspension. I'm also looking into a posi.