The Oct '97 issue of Chevrolet High Performance, page 114 contained an article on putting an LS1 from a Corvette in a '55 Chevy. I want to thank local and classic list member Scott Jones for informing me of this. While that article was sparse, it did include several key points. They used a vette LS1. This caused two problems. 1) Apparently the vette LS1 oil pan has kickouts (they call them 'wings') that had to be removed for chassis clearance. Luckily for me, The Camaro LS1 doesn't have these!! 2) Vette used 'throttle by wire, causing throttle hookup problems. Again, not the case with the Camaro LS1. Other points: 'Missing' bolt hole for tranny to engine mount. I discovered this in the initial bellbousing to engine test fit. I'm not concerned with one of six bolts missing. The LS1 has a unique crankshaft flange so LS1 flywheels and flexplates must be used. I initially thought the LT1s also has this unusual flange, but the article indicates otherwise. The crank doesn't extend as far back into the tranny area as compared to older engines. The article stated that it is short by 0.400". That gives me a number to work with! A custom pilot bushing needs to be made. That should be VERY easy to do with a piece of brass and a lathe. Since I plan to use a Lakewood bellhousing, I'm HOPING that clutch fork adjustment can compensate for the 0.400" difference. I will probably have to use a 'long' throwout bearing.
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