LS3 Crate Engine Swap

[Motohead]

Hi,


I’m about to purchase and install a 427 LS3 crate engine into my 69 Camaro. The engine comes with a GM harness. My 69 Camaro currently has a SBC 383, T56M with a Silversport Trans X-member, Ridetech with Tru-Turn and 4-link, and no tunnel mods. This is my first LS swap, I've done a lot or research, but I still have a few questions before I get started. I’m trying to control the cost of peripheral parts creep as much as I can.


Silversport is recommending flywheel 460530. Are there cheaper similar quality flywheels out there?
Do I need an oil catch can for this engine?
Will the Holley Blackheart motor mounts work with SST’s trans x-member or do I need to get the Holley x-member as well? It was suggested to get adjustable mounts because the SST member already located the trans in the original location and length of driveshaft. But I've heard the Holley kit lowers the engine and makes everything fit perfectly and without tunnel mods.
How many are using the PCM vs an external fuel pressure regulator? Which is better and why? If I need to run an external regulator which is better to use, BYP7910-KIT or AFPR1.
Is there a quality 302-2 oil pan out there other than the $500 Holley version. I see them online for $150 or so.
Where/How is everyone running the wiring harness? I wanted to put the ecu in passenger wheel well behind the head light. I don't know how long the harness is or its layout.


Any help is gratefully appreciated. TIA

[AUTODYNAMICS]

Use the oil pan 302-2 knock off on Amazon
I used it on my ls3 and worked out perfectly 217888

[csouth]

Just few things I would add:

I would probably do the catch can, my choice would be Motion RaceWorks because it allows you to rotate the can outlets in multiple directions and not move the mount.
Test fit your harness before you pick a mounting location. You definitely don't want to put too much tension on the plugs and sensors trying to get a position , you many not have long enough leads for the fender location.
As far a as fuel pressure goes, I would use the Ricks Restomod tank and and Camaro SS pump. Its a stock style tank that accepts the late model GM pump. I know you can get the valve to set the Fuel pressure and 60psi. Full tilt would be to add Vaporworx PWM contoller so the pump ramps up as needed. They are owned by Aeromotive now, but still great product.

[Motohead]

This LS3 has a 4.125 stroke. I read the 302-2 won't accept anything past 3.62. Is there alternative? I have a Tanks Inc tank with HP fuel pump.

[csouth]

This LS3 has a 4.125 stroke. I read the 302-2 won't accept anything past 3.62. Is there alternative? I have a Tanks Inc tank with HP fuel pump.


I believe the 302-3 is the one for strokers. If you look at pan, you can see it has an extra notch. It says its for 4.00 stroke engines.

[streetk14]

My thoughts in no particular order after doing an LS7 into a first gen.

1) I went with the oil pan from Mast Motorsports. It clears everything with the Holley engine mount brackets, and works with my 4” stroke. I also like that it’s USA made.

2) I’d do the Holley mount setup. I have good driveshaft angles and my tunnel is not modified. Not sure if your trans crossmember will work; I went with the Holley crossmember myself.

3) If you’re talking about using an OEM fuel pressure control module, I don’t think that’s easily done. The Rick’s tank that uses modern Camaro pump units is really the way to go. I had to redo my fuel system recently because of issues (lost a fuel pump, then issues with heat/cavitation) : Rick’s tank, ZL1 fuel pump, and Vaporworx controller. I wish I’d done it that way originally.

4) I just run an OEM GM LS7 clutch and flywheel. Not sure how that compares in price to what you’re looking at.