i am looking into converting my 3.8 v6 to an lt1. i was wondering if there was any difference in the lt1's that came out of the camaros/trans ams/ or impala ss's. thanks

 

The main difference is that the F-Bodys had aluminum heads and the Impalas had Iron heads. The Impalas also had a higher compression ratio I think. There will also be differences in intake and exhaust due to the car's shape, etc...

The Impalas were rated at 265 hp, and the F-body was 275 hp+

 

Fbody = aluminum heads

Impalas = Iron heads

That is the major difference.

There are more.

Michael



Edit : Sorry, I was typing and someone else replied.

 

yes

F & Y cars Camaros/Corvettes/Firebirds had aluminum heads


the B-body Caprice, Imapla, Buick, Cadilac) had like iron or steel heads, I cant remember which one.

HP ratings
Y-Body 300HP
F-body 275HP
B-Body 260HP

 

Food for thought:
This is a highly involved swap. If you want to do it that is up to you, but I have a friend that did this swap and there is ALOT to this. I wouldn't try it if you aren't very sure of yourself, and have a lot of time on your hands.

Most would suggest that you just find an LT1 car and trade yours in on it. It would probably be about the same amount of money to buy a LT1/trans/rear....etc....as it would be to trade up to an LT1 car.

This is just a suggestion, and I hope you get what it is your looking for

 

Ditto buying an lt1 car.

 

Kris is right, you said your car was a 3.8 so it must be atleast a 95 or newer. The swap is expensive and a lot of labor, thats the main thing. It isn't hard just a lot of labor and money for all the parts. Insurance wont be to bad on aused LT1 car from the V6. Plus LT1s are dirt cheap now adays.

 

well see i'm getting someone to do the swap for me for free, and i can find a used lt1 and transmission on ebay for like 1,600$ including wiring harness and all the stuff thats needed for the swap. I don't need a new rear end do I? i know the transmission is different but i'm not sure about the rear end.

Also i thought about buying a totalled out z28 and just pulling the motor. that would be cheaper i think, especially since i can sell the body for a little bit after the swap.

how much do you think i can get for my used 3.8 (120,000 miles) and transmission?

thanks for replies