Log in

View Full Version : Vengeance about to take the LS7 plunge!... Guys please help me figure out what i need


Mr.VENGEANCE
12-19-2009, 11:44 PM
Okay so im putting in the LS7 into Venny now.. so i need to know what i need.

can you guys help me out with the grocery list?

okay heres what i know i need.. what have i missed.

Motor mounts(i have)
Headers
EFI fuel tank
Coilpacks
waterpump
Throttle body(where can i find one?)
lines
Accessory drive(what STOCK motors could i get the complete from?)
GMPP wiring harness(what does it all come with?)
Pedals

what else do i need?

and this is on a Art Morisson front clip.

i dont want to run heat or AC so that wont matter.

Ill be looking around also on other sites and searching but the info is slightly scattered.. i looked at the info of CamaroX but it seems like newer options have come up.

please let me know what i missed and where i can get the stuff cheapest online!..

thanks guys!!!

Steve1968LS2
12-20-2009, 12:21 AM
Wet or dry sump? for dry sump you will need an oil tank and all the plumbing.

On a non-dry sump LS engine you can run any drive system from any other LS engine.. just make sure you don't try and "mix and match"

LS1 Camaro (4th gen) is good.. as are the C5 and C6 or even late model GTO. GMPP also sells a complete drive kit with and without AC

I'm not sure what changes if you stay dry sump since the LS7 in factory form has the double impeller oil pump.

The normal GMPP harness kit has the harness, ECU, throttle-by-wire pedal, MAF sensor, O2 sensors.. pretty much everything thing you need. I'm not sure if the LS2/LS3 kit works for the LS7 since I think the coil pack plugs are a tad different.

You will also need:

Fittings (adaptors) for oil pressure and water temp senders (for aftermarket gauges)

Consider the trans also.. engine placement might dictate a new or modified trans crossmember.

The LS7 crate engine ships with a TBW throttle body. If you want to go cable then a host of companies make them (FAST, Holley, etc) -- all crate engines ship with water pumps as well, but depending on the pulley system you may need to run a different pump. In the aftermarket Edelbrock makes a nice replacement water pump.

67ragtp
12-20-2009, 07:09 AM
As Steve already stated GMPP does sell a variety of drive systems. I thought I would reiterate this since I found it to be one of the most cost effective purchases I made in gathering the parts necessary to run the ls7. Less than 500 bucks gets you the whole package including hardware. Granted this one is non AC, but its ridiculiously inexpensive.
Wegner makes a nice accessory system but Im sure your gonna get close to the 2k range. The damper typically requires an aftermarket version when going with the performance set ups.
http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u188/ragtp/Picture215.jpg

Rich

ProdigyCustoms
12-20-2009, 08:42 AM
Steve pretty well nailed it. Even caught the gauge adapters. Headers will be a bit tricky, the LS7 takes 1 7/8 tube headers, but all Morrison has is 1 3/4 headers, which will mount up, but will make it exhale through a straw. These things really can handle 2" headers quite well.

I would run the GMPP harness if it is going to be a manual transmission.

You wil need a double pass LS radiator with a steam line provision (we can handle that)

ATS had dry sump tanks, don't know for sure if they are still going to do those. Petterson makes dry sump tanks (no way I would give up the dry sump if I was going LS7)

Ragtop show the perfect front drive for it, uness as he mentioned you want a Wegner which is closer to $1600 without A/C

Dippers! It is going to haul ass!

67ragtp
12-20-2009, 09:24 AM
certainly not cheap, but I bet Dan lemons could put together a set of kick *ss pipes for that chassis. The guy is a friggin artist with pipe!

Also - Frank mentioned the steam line provision at the radiator. Check out the pic at the top of the water pump inbetwwen the throttlebody and resivoir. I ran the steam vent back in to the water pump with a 90 degree npt/compression fitting :thumbsup:

Rich

Cris@JCG
12-20-2009, 09:59 AM
I like to use the Speartech harness.. Call John up & he will get the harness custom built for your car with fly by wire throttle!

Motor mounts(i have)
Headers- Call Art Morrison & find out who makes them for their chassis
EFI fuel tank- Rick's Gas tanks
Coilpacks- Stock GM
waterpump- Stock one that comes with GM LS1 or LS2
Throttle body(where can i find one?)- comes with LS7
lines
Accessory drive(what STOCK motors could i get the complete from?) GM LS1
GMPP wiring harness(what does it all come with?) Speartech
Pedals- Speartech fly by wire

I would go with the Peterson dry sump oil tank or Turn Key also makes an oil tank for LS7

Attached is a pic of an LS2 track system that we used on an Art Morrrison chassis!

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/jcgrestoration/firebird062.jpg

GregWeld
12-20-2009, 11:03 AM
Art Morrison uses Stans Headers - Auburn, WA

Here's a link.

http://www.stans-headers.com/


My Nomad which has a sbc - and a Jim Meyer Chassis uses Stans that were built for the Morrison 62 Corvette. I had fabbed up some tube changes on an old set I had - just tacked in some different bends. Took them down to Stans to see if he would bend the tubes in one piece for me... he looks at them a minute and says "wait here". He comes back with a "jigged set" (a tangle of small pieces cut and tacked) and says here - go try these... and of course they fit perfectly. Come to find out they were the model set built for Arts 62 project... my point is - that with all the headers they sell - this guy could just look at my mocked up mess - and he could recognize what I needed. That's amazing to me!

Steve1968LS2
12-20-2009, 11:04 AM
As Steve already stated GMPP does sell a variety of drive systems. I thought I would reiterate this since I found it to be one of the most cost effective purchases I made in gathering the parts necessary to run the ls7. Less than 500 bucks gets you the whole package including hardware. Granted this one is non AC, but its ridiculiously inexpensive.
Wegner makes a nice accessory system but Im sure your gonna get close to the 2k range. The damper typically requires an aftermarket version when going with the performance set ups.

Rich

This is very true.. if you want "functional" then the GMPP stuff is the way to go.. if you want something that looks nice then you will pay more.

However, the GM stuff can be made to look nice.. it's what I'm running on Penny.

Steve1968LS2
12-20-2009, 11:06 AM
You wil need a double pass LS radiator with a steam line provision (we can handle that)


Just one correction here.. you DO NOT need to run the steam line to the radiator.. just run it into the top of the water pump. It looks better (less hoses) and works just fine, every LS engine I've built has been like this.

James OLC
12-20-2009, 11:38 AM
For the dry sump tank and breather you can just call Peterson Fluid systems - same tank as ATS used to offer and probably cheaper.

For coils definately stock GM - the aftermarket ones have some issues related to current draw and heat that can make them an issue in your application.

I would go Speartech harness if I did it again - you just have to decide if you want a mechanical TB or DBW. I like my mechanical TB but the DBW works fine as well.

Early LS style pilot bearing - the 'vette style pilot is completely different.

Blake Foster
12-20-2009, 03:27 PM
we have a fabricated dry sump oil pans in the works, by that i mean we have everything to build them in stock just need to glue them together.
we have some very cool coil mounts that get them off the valve cover and mount them to the back of the head. i will post a pic tomorrow.
if your interested.

Mr.VENGEANCE
12-20-2009, 05:21 PM
For coils definately stock GM - the aftermarket ones have some issues related to current draw and heat that can make them an issue in your application.

I would go Speartech harness if I did it again - you just have to decide if you want a mechanical TB or DBW. I like my mechanical TB but the DBW works fine as well.

where is a good place to find the stock coils?.. ebay?

and i was thinking of doing a mechanical TB did you have any problems?

and Why would you have gone the Speartech over the GMPP?

Amir.

Mr.VENGEANCE
12-20-2009, 05:24 PM
and yea im not trying to get a "pretty" accy drive.. so the GMPP one is 500 bucks?..

im just looking for the one that will do the job.

and im not going to run Heat or AC.. so that wont be a problem.


the thing is that the engine i got was a pull out so some major parts are missing..

the water pump, the manifold and TB, coils, etc... so im trying to get as much as i can.

i just want to be very cheap in these choices.. coz that's what it calls for at the moment..

Steve1968LS2
12-20-2009, 05:57 PM
we have a fabricated dry sump oil pans in the works, by that i mean we have everything to build them in stock just need to glue them together.
we have some very cool coil mounts that get them off the valve cover and mount them to the back of the head. i will post a pic tomorrow.
if your interested.

yea, I've seen your new coil mounts and they are VERY nice..

Steve1968LS2
12-20-2009, 06:02 PM
and yea im not trying to get a "pretty" accy drive.. so the GMPP one is 500 bucks?..

im just looking for the one that will do the job.

and im not going to run Heat or AC.. so that wont be a problem.


the thing is that the engine i got was a pull out so some major parts are missing..

the water pump, the manifold and TB, coils, etc... so im trying to get as much as i can.

i just want to be very cheap in these choices.. coz that's what it calls for at the moment..

Yea, go with the GMPP pulleys.. you coud get cheaper digging through a junk yard, but it's a hassle. should be near $500 for a No AC version.

For an intake you will either need an LS7 unit or you'll need the FAST unit. If an LS3 intake will work (I think it will) then I will have one for sale in the next month (with injectors and rails).

The TB can be sourced anywhere, you just need to decide if you want cable or Throttle By Wire.

I would price out Speartech since they do good work, but also check what the GMPP kit costs and comes with. You'll get better service from Speartech.

Since you are missing coils you can find some used LS2/LS3 coils..

I should also have an LS3 water pump (new) for sale soon since we are converting one to a Vintage Air Front Runner and it has it's own pump. In any event you should be able to find a pump just about anywhere.

Do you have a picture of what you have?

ProdigyCustoms
12-21-2009, 06:33 AM
Call me about coils and brackets.

XcYZ
12-21-2009, 07:48 AM
Don't forget a cam swap, you can't leave it stock. :D

With how my LS7 runs with the E38 and the TBW, I would never consider an aftermarket ECM.

Bow Tie 67
12-21-2009, 08:48 AM
Throttle body(where can i find one?)

GMPP wiring harness(what does it all come with?)
Pedals



I may have a TB, PM me.

The GMPP harness come with:

Stand alone Harness, E67 ECM, MAF sensor and mounting boss, pedal assy, and O2 sensors.

Mr.VENGEANCE
12-21-2009, 09:40 AM
Do you have a picture of what you have?

essentially this is how the motor is sitting but with coilbrackets on top of the heads.. and no water pump.

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k56/VenomousType/Venomous/LS7ready.jpg

i have the dry sump tank with stock lines and fuel rails but no manifold..

James OLC
12-21-2009, 11:32 AM
What is your timing like? The manifold off my '67 might be available but I'm fuzzy on the timing. Complete manifolds (new or used) aren't that pricey regardless.

I haven't had any problems with my mechanical TB but have heard of people with issues with early MSD (post UMI - I think) blade clearance. I'm really happy with the throttle response and have been told that it is more predictable than the drive by wire but can't speak from my own experience.

I like John (at Speartech)s customer service and the fact that he can custom build your harness for you application - which is great if you want or need longer or shorter sections for whatever reason.

And ditto Scott's comment on the cam...

70rs
12-21-2009, 12:07 PM
I may be wrong on this, but are the GMPP ECUs "locked" meaning you can not "tune" them for a cam swap? I was under the impression that the factory installed ECU from the donor vehicle (or similar donor) was a better way to go for future tuning options. I only mention this because a cam was mentioned and would hate to see you have to buy things twice.

Like I said, I may be wrong, I just want to be clear. But if it helps save the budget and headaches I wanted you to know about the limited tuning of the GMPP ECU.

Does Stainless Works offer headers for the LS7/AM sub?

Good luck !:cheers:

fesler
12-21-2009, 12:17 PM
We have headers for these and we have access to all the other parts if you need any help just let me know and I will do what I can. Thanks

Mr.VENGEANCE
12-21-2009, 02:07 PM
I was wondering about the Art Morisson headers, they are a 1000 bucks coated but they are kind of small.
The price is competitive compared to what ive seen. cant swing 3000 bucks for ATS tri Ys... ahahha


Also i was thinking of going with an ATL fuel cell instead of a stainless tank..

or maybe this one..

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Custom-Aluminum-Fuel-Tank-Cell-15-Gal-EFI-RaceCar-Truck_W0QQitemZ180445867758QQcmdZViewItemQQptZMoto rs_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item2a03696eee

what do you guys think of this?

Blake Foster
12-21-2009, 02:58 PM
here are the coil mounts i spoke of
the price will be right at the 299 mark including the mounting bracket

James OLC
12-21-2009, 03:04 PM
here are the coil mounts i spoke of
the price will be right at the 299 mark including the mounting bracket

These are great pieces and fit perfectly. I've been using them for the last year (the first run prototypes) and could not be happier with them - another great part from Speedtech!

Stuart Adams
12-21-2009, 04:48 PM
Money, Time and Patience....

Hope all goes well.

Mr.VENGEANCE
12-21-2009, 05:17 PM
thanks Stuart... thanks...
http://www.signslanguage.com/obvious.jpg

customcam
12-21-2009, 06:35 PM
Just wondering why a 2" inch header instead of 1 7/8"?
Iv seen alot of guys even with supercharges run 1 7/8"...

nvr2fst
12-21-2009, 07:49 PM
Manifold- check out (forum member BA) His name is Allen, he is selling the PORTED manifold, injectors/lines off my old LS7. Pretty sweet set up for a pair price.

Is that the exact photo of "your engine" I could'a swore I was looking at my old motor from the photo you set with the surroundings in it?

nvr2fst
12-21-2009, 07:56 PM
we have a fabricated dry sump oil pans in the works, by that i mean we have everything to build them in stock just need to glue them together.
we have some very cool coil mounts that get them off the valve cover and mount them to the back of the head. i will post a pic tomorrow.
if your interested.

So are the oil pans you guys are fabbing up for production the same as the ATS ones. Are are you designing something different.

Mr.VENGEANCE
12-22-2009, 12:04 AM
Manifold- check out (forum member BA) His name is Allen, he is selling the PORTED manifold, injectors/lines off my old LS7. Pretty sweet set up for a pair price.

Is that the exact photo of "your engine" I could'a swore I was looking at my old motor from the photo you set with the surroundings in it?

yes thats my motor, that photo was taken by the original owner at the shop IPSmotorsports.. if you are the guy with the LSX twin turbo vette than yes it is your old engine.

:question:

nvr2fst
12-22-2009, 08:03 AM
yes thats my motor, that photo was taken by the original owner at the shop IPSmotorsports.. if you are the guy with the LSX twin turbo vette than yes it is your old engine.

:question:

No big deal how long have you owned the motor.
Ive had a couple of LS7s. and I know the boys at IPS. Marks the one with the TT LSX that I bought his old motor from which I sold to BA a forum member here. The other LS7 was also an IPS motor originally that I sold two years ago.
Most likely you purchased (cant think of name) the engine from the yellow vette IPS built prior to it also going LSX TT. Brandon over there is great to deal with and they do some awesome stuff in combination with Livernous Motorsport. Are you having them build up your motor? Was any internal work done to the engine yet (cam, pistons, crank, etc)

Mr.VENGEANCE
12-22-2009, 10:30 AM
Hey!

yes it is from the Yellow TTlsx car.. the guys name is Jason Fetter.

know him?

nvr2fst
12-22-2009, 11:03 AM
Hey!

yes it is from the Yellow TTlsx car.. the guys name is Jason Fetter.

know him?

Yes, Both Jason and Mark have the fastest LSX vettes recorded. Jason recently was putting his yellow TT back to stock for resale of the car. Not sure what he is planning to buy next. I believe the motor you purchased from Jason had less than 3000 miles on it before he pulled it to installed the LSX. I know what he sold it for and you got a good deal. Good luck with your upcoming engine build, Brandon over at IPS should be able to help you out 100% including getting you the right parts needed at a decent cost.
FYI- if Im not mistaken Marks vette is being torn down again maybe he has what your looking for at a cheap price, check with Brandon

Mr.VENGEANCE
12-22-2009, 05:50 PM
http://memegenerator.net/Instances/441/Joseph-Ducreux-TWIN-TURBO-LSX-WHAT-YOU-KNOW-BOUT-IT.jpg

JayR
12-23-2009, 12:43 PM
Great thread, Amir! I'll be following along closely as I'm doing the very same thing right now with an LS2 take out long block. I can't seem to find the GMPP part # for the non/AC accessory drive. Anyone?

GregWeld
01-01-2010, 10:47 AM
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Did you pay him/them for their time and expenses?

speedshftr
01-01-2010, 11:03 AM
could someone guestimate the total cost involved?for everything?im interested but broke/:cheers:

mstennes
01-02-2010, 03:34 PM
I'm in the process, of getting ready to finish my LS7 swap, and I cant figure out which drrive system to run for my 1st gen Camaro, that I can hook up the AC system. The after market setups are just way to much $$$$$ which GMPP setup do I need/want?

70rs
01-02-2010, 05:01 PM
I'm in the process, of getting ready to finish my LS7 swap, and I cant figure out which drrive system to run for my 1st gen Camaro, that I can hook up the AC system. The after market setups are just way to much $$$$$ which GMPP setup do I need/want?

There is a number of ways to do it. But maybe starting a new thread in the engine forum will get more exposure than on this thread and get you needs taken care of? Just a thought.:cheers:

JayR
01-02-2010, 10:58 PM
I'm in the process, of getting ready to finish my LS7 swap, and I cant figure out which drrive system to run for my 1st gen Camaro, that I can hook up the AC system. The after market setups are just way to much $$$$$ which GMPP setup do I need/want?

Correct me if I'm wrong but I'm pretty sure this system from the CTS-V will bolt on the LS7 and it's the tightest most compact GM kit there is and pretty darn reasonably priced too. http://paceperformance.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=199032 Pace also has the same kit minus all the A/C components and from what I'm told, the GM part # for it with A/C is 19155067 Pretty sure I'm about to order the non A/C soon.

Mr.VENGEANCE
07-01-2010, 09:04 AM
Anyone know if the latest GTO's front accessory drive will work on an ls7?

ProdigyCustoms
07-01-2010, 10:17 AM
No, they are different

ArisESQ
07-01-2010, 03:21 PM
if you're still looking for a waterpump and intake manifold, and other stock stuff like that, you should check over at corvetteforum.com

a lot of guys upgrading get rid of the stock stuff for relatively cheap. may even find an accessory drive there.

Mr.VENGEANCE
07-02-2010, 06:27 AM
No, they are different

for real Frank?.. an 06 gto?
Im getting mixed results online..:question:

ProdigyCustoms
07-02-2010, 08:27 AM
All the front drives we sell have different listing for LS7 (dry sump) then any wet sump motor.

Keep in mind the oil pump is behind the water pump so it must be a spacing thing.

NOW, that does not mean someone has not figured out how to rig a GTO drive to a LS7. I am admittedly horrible at that.

71RS/SS396
07-05-2010, 05:41 PM
The LS-7 crank snout is longer because of the dry sump.

Cris@JCG
07-05-2010, 08:29 PM
LS7 & LS2 track will not interchange.. cause the LS7 harmonic balance sits about 7/8 shorter towards the block.. I have all these track systems here @ the shop.. I will start a post here pretty soon to show the differences on the track systems.. LS1 for F body, LS2 for GTO, LS6 corvette, LS7, & L99 for 2010 Camaro..

Currently working on getting an LS2 harmonic balancer to work with an LS6 Corvette track system cause I have an LQ9 motor that does not have the mounting holes required for LS2 alternator brackets

for real Frank?.. an 06 gto?
Im getting mixed results online..:question: