Hello everyone. I am somewhat new here. I made a username years ago but never needed it much because I own a third gen, so I use thirdgen.org. But you guys get plenty of praise over there, so hopefully you can live up to your reputation and help me out here. I have been nagging my buddy to buy a project car since I got mine 3 years ago. Well, mine is done now so it's time to start a new one. What has become available to him is a 99 camaro with a blown 3.8. The car is in great shape, and I think it will be a steal. However, we also have a 96 caprice with a 70K mile LT1 in it available, dirt cheap, and it sure is cheaper that an LSx. Has anyone done this swap? What do you guys think? I'm confident but not sure. Thanks in advance guys.
Steve

 

The LT1 from the caprice is not the same as a camaro lt1, lower horsepower, iron heads, etc. I am sure it uses a differently programmed computer than a camaro too. I would bet willing to be the 99 dash will not interface with the lt1 computer and harness- problems problems problems.


I would get a junkyard motor and fix the 99 and sell it.

 

500 hp 3.8 turbo and have fun.

 

Thanks for the replies guys. I knew it wouldn't interface with the dash harness properly but basically all this car needs to do is drive, so most of that stuff isn't a big deal as far as I know, unless there are some major problems you guys can fill me in on. I'm a generation behind in technology lol. It's pretty much a "just for the hell of it" project. So i'm mainly concerned about the physical aspect. Wether or not it will fit? The car is here to stay but the engine is a variable. Just don't want to spend tons of money. I also know it's more cost effecttive to buy a v8 car from the get go, but like I said, the car is here to stay. Any more help will be greatly appreciated guys. Thanks,
Steve

 

Anyone? We have dropped the idea of the caprice engine. I still would like to go with an LT1 instead of an LS1 because of the price difference and availablility. From searching, I have come up with countless posts about swapping an LT1 into the 93-97. Was there any changes preventing this from being possible? Obviously the dash harness is different, but none of that is a big deal to me. Will it fit? And does anyone sell a k-member for the swap? Thanks guys,
Steve

 

Car is a 99 3.8 for anyone just tuning in.

 

fbody parts you'll need...

93-97 LT1 transmission, kmember w/ mounts, wiring harness, computer, alternator brackets, ps pump, ac, acc. bracket, front coils, ls1 air intake

bbody lt1 vs fbody lt1 differences
cyl. heads, cam, sensor locations, power steering pump, front accessory brackets, air intake, oil filter, wiring harness, probably more

also note that you could be swapping a 4.3 liter "Baby" LT1 into your car which is NOT a LT1, confirm it says 5.7L on the block