LS conversion..Info overload. A little Help.
 

I have read so many post, to the point I forget what I'm actually attempting or wanting. There is so much info out there, and I end up getting lost in the threads, so give up. I currently have a 68 Camaro running a 383 (na 400 rwhp, nos 600rwhp), with the Fast 2.0. I probably should have went the LS route along time ago but was so comfortable with the SBC (old school). I have now updated this thing to where I'm now running the Fast 2.0, and have everything else electronic in the car you can buy (or it seems). At this point I don't know if it is even beneficial to change. Anyway I start researching then give up after I lose sight on what I want to do.

My goal is I want at least 500-550 rwhp N/A (either build a 427 SBC expensive, and keep everything front accessories). or Build a LS type engine to meet what I want, and use what I can from what I have.

So here it is.

1. I'm running a 1200HP rated 2004R can I keep this tranny with the conversion.

2. I have the Fast 2.0 (so is the what I need to run the engine?? If so what else do I need for the LS egine (is the a ecu/harness unique to the engine). This is where I have been getting lost. How much wiring comes with the engine or is it just a engine harness that will connect to the FAST 2.0. I spent 2300 on the Fast 2.0

3. I have the vintage A/C, I can still use the compressor I'm currently running?

4. Does the LS have a special type PS box I have to use (in other words I can't use my current SBC one correct, which runs my PS, and hydroboost).

5. If I change to a LS and I can keep my 2004r, will the tranny move forward or backwards or will the engine bolt up without having to move the tranny forward or back?

6. Fuel system I'm good. I have the aeromotive stealth Tank installed already with a feed line to the front (regulator), and a return line.

7. I have a MSD6AL that is controlled by the Fast 2.0, which I think I would need to upgrade to one that can control the coil packs? Another area that I get lost.

8. I have O2 sensors in both exhaust now, one goes to the Fast 2.0, the other is monitored by my nitrous system.

My thinking is and I don't really know, is I might only need to get a LS engine, headers, engine mounts, tranny adapter if possible, oil pan, front drive assembly that I would be happy with (want the A/c on the passenger side, down low if possible), radiator (I have a aluminum one know). Again so confused/lost at this point. I can do all the work (hopefully).

At this point I'm thinking the LS route only due to the fact it is such a easy power plant, plus you get even fuel distribution, individual coil packs per cylinder, just seems right.

I'm I really gaining much from where I'm currently at?

Here is my current engine

Attachment 43921

Attachment 43922

1. I'm running a 1200HP rated 2004R can I keep this tranny with the conversion. Yes you can with a flexplate adapter and correct converter.

2. I have the Fast 2.0 (so is the what I need to run the engine?? If so what else do I need for the LS egine (is the a ecu/harness unique to the engine). This is where I have been getting lost. How much wiring comes with the engine or is it just a engine harness that will connect to the FAST 2.0. I spent 2300 on the Fast 2.0

I believe you can with the right intake and ignition upgrade.

3. I have the vintage A/C, I can still use the compressor I'm currently running?

Yes, with the right drive system. We run Wegner automotive on all of our build and it uses the SD7 comp.

4. Does the LS have a special type PS box I have to use (in other words I can't use my current SBC one correct, which runs my PS, and hydroboost).

You can use the same steering box and hydroboost. You get a new pump with the accesory drive set up.

5. If I change to a LS and I can keep my 2004r, will the tranny move forward or backwards or will the engine bolt up without having to move the tranny forward or back?

Same location with the right engine adapter plates. Trans stays put.

6. Fuel system I'm good. I have the aeromotive stealth Tank installed already with a feed line to the front (regulator), and a return line.

As long as you can regulate to 58 psi.

7. I have a MSD6AL that is controlled by the Fast 2.0, which I think I would need to upgrade to one that can control the coil packs? Another area that I get lost.

You may need a new ignition controller to utilize the cam and crank sensors. You can call MSD tech. They are very helpful.

8. I have O2 sensors in both exhaust now, one goes to the Fast 2.0, the other is monitored by my nitrous system.

Again should be fine if you are running the correct set up for a carb manifold LS engine.

If it was my car I would sell the engine/trans/fast and do LS with stock PCM and 4l60e.

Unless your trans is manual valve body and you want to keep it like that it's nice to have electronic control over the trans.

I don't know of any drive systems that puts the compressor down low that will fit with the stock front subframe. Agreed that the Wegner stuff is very nice and symmetrical looking.

Good info. The thing with the trans, is I just had it built ($5500 time built/convertor/cross member/trans brake), and the fast just spent 2300+ on that as well, so not so easy to just throw them away and even selling at this point would be crazy to me, but I agree with having control over your trans.

Once the trans is setup the way you want it what's the advantage to e-control? Can one save several setups so they can be switched on/off? -Bob

Well I'm no 2004r expert but having electronic trans control allows you to set shift points at an ideal rpm.

Lets say you dyno the car and it makes peak power at 6500 and you want it to shift exactly at 6800rpm. A few keystrokes with an electronic trans and you are there.

I would think it would be harder to achieve that with a 2004r.

Also with a stock ecu and speed input from the trans you have throttle adders vs mph which is nice.

Get a 6.0 or 6.2 truck engine with ls3 heads, put a camshaft in it, get a gmpp carb intake put your fast system on it. Bolt up your 2004r to it and enjoy. It's not hard to get 500+ hp out of this setup and it will idle like a baby and run like heck!

2004R install in a 1st-gen
 

It's no problem to install/run a 2004R in a 1st-gen behind an LS and parts exist that allow you to do it in a bolt-in fashion, as shown in the attached photo.

Some good info here. From my research, kinda in the same boat now, already have a built SBC but looking to go LS, I'd say go LS. Seems to be better in all aspects except possibly the $$$$ area.

Couldnt agree with you more.