67 Firebird-Part 2 [Archive]

rickpaw

04-22-2013, 05:43 PM

After finishing and driving my Firebird for more than a year with the old school Pontiac drivetrain, I kind of grow tired of coming home smelling like raw gas due to an exhaust leak (I think). So I decided to do an LS swap on the car, and put the entire drivetrain for sale to fund my swap. The Mustang I was working on will have to take a back seat.

Shortly after the drivetrain was sold to a local Firebird enthusiast, I picked up a complete 5.3L/4l60e combo supposedly with 81,000 miles. I did a leak down test and the percentage loss was around 14% for all the cylinders (cold engine) so I think I'm good. Going to use the motor as is (maybe change out the timing chain/oil pump).

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/P1020471_zpse1cf25c2-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020471_zpse1cf25c2.jpg.html)

The old Pontiac motor ready to come out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/P1020978_zpsf6ed84f2-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020978_zpsf6ed84f2.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/P1020985_zps8bcc7245-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020985_zps8bcc7245.jpg.html)

LS mounts from DSE.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/P1020986_zps03cdf4da-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020986_zps03cdf4da.jpg.html)

Ordered the Mast oil pan, since DSE said the truck oil pan hangs too low and interfere with the frame. Funny the new oil pan costs as much as the entire engine.

rickpaw

04-22-2013, 05:50 PM

DSE mounts installed

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/P1020988_zps16c321e1-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020988_zps16c321e1.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/P1020989_zps9bed9d70-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020989_zps9bed9d70.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/P1020990_zps4b77331d-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020990_zps4b77331d.jpg.html)

Just as I suspected, the truck oil pan hangs too low, and contacted the cross member before the mounting holes on the pass side got lined up.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/04/P1020991_zps6f3255cd-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020991_zps6f3255cd.jpg.html)

I guess I have to pull the motor back out, and install the Mast pan, which came today.

rickpaw

05-01-2013, 03:46 AM

Quick update.

Mocked up the Mast pan, which cleared everything

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1020992_zps0b51c0a9-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020992_zps0b51c0a9.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/DSC_0321_zps8af4bc1c-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/DSC_0321_zps8af4bc1c.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/DSC_0322_zps62eb0c73-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/DSC_0322_zps62eb0c73.jpg.html)

Quick shot of the engine/tranny in car

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/DSC_0324_zps2a23fbc9-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/DSC_0324_zps2a23fbc9.jpg.html)

Initially I was going to mod the T400 crossmember for the 4l60e, but turned out I had to cut it up too much, and it was additional work that I did not want to do. So ordered new BMR crossmember from Summit, along with Dynatech headers. Also I ordered a new fuel injected tank set up from Tanks Inc.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030006_zpsb11586d9-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030006_zpsb11586d9.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030007_zps31a25476-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030007_zps31a25476.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1020998_zps4607b018-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020998_zps4607b018.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1020997_zpse201cde4-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1020997_zpse201cde4.jpg.html)

rickpaw

05-01-2013, 03:50 AM

Worked on the fuel tank over the weekend. Got the pump and sender mounted in the tank.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030001_zpsd31d41d3-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030001_zpsd31d41d3.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030003_zps409534df-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030003_zps409534df.jpg.html)

I decided to make an access hole in the trunk in case I need to remove/replace the fuel pump/sender.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030004_zpsfb07766b-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030004_zpsfb07766b.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030005_zps090eac45-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030005_zps090eac45.jpg.html)

rickpaw

05-01-2013, 03:54 AM

The sheet metal around the access hole kind of flexes a bit, so I made a trim ring using my new bead roller to help stiffen it up a bit. Not the prettiest, but it works.

Welded in place.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030008_zps1ea2c93a-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030008_zps1ea2c93a.jpg.html)

Then I made an access cover panel.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030009_zps3581c8ec-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030009_zps3581c8ec.jpg.html)

Ordered fuel lines and an fittings. Hoping to wrap up the fuel system in a week or so.

geberhard

05-01-2013, 09:29 AM

Tu, really sweet! I also dig the access panel idea big time! How did you make the pannel?

Mr.VENGEANCE

05-01-2013, 09:39 AM

Another asian dude with a musclecar?

man thats rare!

68400BIRD

05-01-2013, 10:11 AM

Great job Tu. Keep the updates coming. Your on the second round and mines still stuck in the garage.

rickpaw

05-01-2013, 10:11 AM

Another asian dude with a musclecar?

man thats rare!

Yup, I've shocked a few people.

rickpaw

05-01-2013, 10:13 AM

Tu, really sweet! I also dig the access panel idea big time! How did you make the pannel?

Woodward Fab bead roller and 22 ga sheet metal.

rickpaw

05-01-2013, 10:19 AM

Thanks Rob.

im4u2nvss

05-02-2013, 08:36 AM

Nice progress! DSE mount kit works fine with stock subframe?

rickpaw

05-02-2013, 02:54 PM

Nice progress! DSE mount kit works fine with stock subframe?

Works so far. There is a member on here, i think he goes by tango68ss, who has the same set up.

rickpaw

05-09-2013, 03:54 AM

Quick update

Mounted the BMR x-member. Overall the parts fit great, but probably will install much easier if the subframe is out of the car.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030017_zpsea380e9b-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030017_zpsea380e9b.jpg.html)

Also started running lines for the fuel system. Got Corvette fuel filter/regulator, Swagelok compression fittings

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030018_zps1b602224-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030018_zps1b602224.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030019_zps3604abb4-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030019_zps3604abb4.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030020_zps49ca0a5a-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030020_zps49ca0a5a.jpg.html)

About $200 worth of braided line/AN fittings.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030021_zps33a0da37-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030021_zps33a0da37.jpg.html)

rickpaw

05-09-2013, 03:59 AM

Mounted Brian Finch's dual vent, and relocated the battery back to the trunk.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030024_zps9705fd26-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030024_zps9705fd26.jpg.html)

Lines ran for fuel tank. Just have to figure out whether I want to keep the fuel rail inlet on the driver side (stock), or flip it 180*.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030029_zpsca5e19f0-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030029_zpsca5e19f0.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030030_zps1ddc64d5-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030030_zps1ddc64d5.jpg.html)

rickpaw

05-09-2013, 04:03 AM

I decided to mock up the truck accessories, and to my surprise, it's too tall. It's probably due to the DSE mounts, since I've reads over LS1tech that some used truck accessories on 1st gen F-body and it clears.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030026_zps6a7313b6-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030026_zps6a7313b6.jpg.html)

Time for new LS accessory drives. I really want VA front runner set up, but the price is way out of my league at this point. I may have to get the Holley set up.

68firebird

05-09-2013, 05:17 AM

Thanks for posting all of this!! I'm hoping to do this conversion at some point. I can't believe that that oil pan is $500!!

srh3trinity

05-09-2013, 05:23 AM

I haven't seen anybody run truck accessories in a first gen. The Camaro/GTO setup is pretty compact. I think the C5 Corvette is the most compact. Not sure about the C6 vette stuff.

rohrt

05-09-2013, 06:27 AM

subscribing

rickpaw

05-09-2013, 07:12 AM

I haven't seen anybody run truck accessories in a first gen. The Camaro/GTO setup is pretty compact. I think the C5 Corvette is the most compact. Not sure about the C6 vette stuff.

Rod Prouty's build thread of his 68 has a picture of the truck accessories mocked up. Looks like it cleared the hood. I'm pretty sure that the DSE mounts I'm using raised everything up. On the plus side, nothing from the motor/tranny hangs below the crossmember.

rickpaw

05-09-2013, 09:30 AM

Thanks for posting all of this!! I'm hoping to do this conversion at some point. I can't believe that that oil pan is $500!!

You're welcome. Regarding oil pans, I looked at Holley/F-body oil pans as alternatives and found that Holley oil pan mimic the shape of the stock oil pan best, but by the time the baffle kit is added, it will push the cost to $600. You can skip the baffle kit ($200), but I want to track the car in the future and don't want any oiling issue. The F-body pan is cheaper, but based on my measurements it will be tight fit with the DSE mounts. The Mast oil pan is nice design wise, but the casting on my pan is pretty rough looking, not something I'd expect from a $460 part. Plus, it eliminates the 2 lower belt housing mounting holes.

Something to think about.

SamHatco

05-09-2013, 04:08 PM

Hey, Tu, making great progress. You'll be up and running in no time.

Sam

rickpaw

05-10-2013, 07:36 AM

Thanks Sam. I'm hoping to get it rolling again this summer.

rickpaw

05-31-2013, 04:10 AM

Progress had been slow as I got distracted with other things, but managed to work on the swap a little bit.

The 11" single diaphram brake booster was a little too big, so I swapped it for a 9" dual diaphram one from Tuff Stuf.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030032_zps78abb72c-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030032_zps78abb72c.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030031_zps68a87511-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030031_zps68a87511.jpg.html)

Ordered/received wire harness/ECU from PSI

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030033_zps99f0a20c-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030033_zps99f0a20c.jpg.html)

rickpaw

05-31-2013, 04:13 AM

Swapped out the stock trans cooler lines fittings for AN fitting from Fragola's

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030034_zpsb6dfbc83-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030034_zpsb6dfbc83.jpg.html)

Did a quick rattle can rebuilt job on the engine block
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030035_zpsc7a2530a-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030035_zpsc7a2530a.jpg.html)

And installed the coolant/oil pressure sending units. I had to drill out the autometer M12 adapter out a bit for the Dakota Digital coolant probe to fit thru.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030036_zps44b7fe34-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030036_zps44b7fe34.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/05/P1030037_zps49ee2e0d-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030037_zps49ee2e0d.jpg.html)

LUV2XLR8

05-31-2013, 05:14 AM

what's the part numbers on the AN fittings from Fragola?

rickpaw

06-02-2013, 03:08 AM

It's 481670-bl. Got mine from summit

rickpaw

06-29-2013, 05:14 AM

Progress had been really slow on the swap, mainly because of family activities, and it's getting hot in Tx.

I converted the stock shifter using Shiftworks kit.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030048_zps23db2149-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030048_zps23db2149.jpg.html)

Stock shifter disassembled

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030049_zpsbe6541e5-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030049_zpsbe6541e5.jpg.html)

Shiftworks detent compared to the stock one
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030051_zps08cece80-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030051_zps08cece80.jpg.html)

After about 20 mins of cutting/grinding/hammering, I removed the stock detent.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030052_zps98159bb5-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030052_zps98159bb5.jpg.html)

Shifter put back together with new neutral switch/bushing and detent.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030054_zpsd8feaa46-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030054_zpsd8feaa46.jpg.html)

rickpaw

06-29-2013, 05:17 AM

I swapped the stock valley cover and converted the PCV system to LS6 style PCV.

New LS6 cover next to old one.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030064_zpsa52ea03e-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030064_zpsa52ea03e.jpg.html)

I got lucky and did not have to mod the block. I guess the truck block is slightly different than the LS1 block.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030065_zps541831b1-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030065_zps541831b1.jpg.html)

Transfered the knock sensors over to new cover and installed back up with new gasket/bolts.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030066_zpsd739fe72-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030066_zpsd739fe72.jpg.html)

rickpaw

06-29-2013, 05:20 AM

Dropped the engine/tranny back in the car. Hopefully it won't come back out for a long time.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030069_zps4cac2de8-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030069_zps4cac2de8.jpg.html)

Installed the Holley accessory drive brackets.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030070_zps8efb0fc1-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030070_zps8efb0fc1.jpg.html)

That's it for now. Next is laying out the harness, and I also have a tilt column coming from GMtilt.com.

68firebird

06-29-2013, 05:46 AM

Looking good!

SamHatco

06-29-2013, 01:49 PM

Looks great, Tu. Yes its getting hot now, triple digits. Now get a fan and get in the garage and finish it. :razz:

Sam

rickpaw

06-30-2013, 06:20 AM

Now get a fan and get in the garage and finish it. :razz:

Sam

Sam,

I have 2 fans going at full blast and it wasn't enough. LOL. Yesterday afternoon when I went out and ran the harness, everything I touched was hot.

Tu

rickpaw

06-30-2013, 12:17 PM

Since it was cool(er) this morning, I snuck out and got some stuff done.

installed the shifter with new gear indicator markings

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030072_zps0927096d-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030072_zps0927096d.jpg.html)

Got the new Lokar throttle cable installed
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030073_zps11215e2c-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030073_zps11215e2c.jpg.html)

Started installing the harness, coil packs, headers. Had to bend the fuel inlet slightly to clear the bigger truck coil

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030074_zpse8544ed3-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030074_zpse8544ed3.jpg.html)

Pass side header is really close to the starter. I have to get some heat shield for it, or go with a mini starter

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030076_zpsf51b1e51-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030076_zpsf51b1e51.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030079_zps5e07d490-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030079_zps5e07d490.jpg.html)

overall shot of the engine. still have to run charge wire, mount the ECU.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/06/P1030075_zpsabe5f750-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030075_zpsabe5f750.jpg.html)

rickpaw

07-07-2013, 04:09 PM

Received the tilt column from Jim @ GMtilt.com earlier in the week.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030080_zps9b2a4406-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030080_zps9b2a4406.jpg.html)

Got it loosely installed
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030089_zps59d37596-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030089_zps59d37596.jpg.html)

Also made the bracket to mount the truck ecu holder on the pass inner fender where the battery was.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030085_zpsca9d7b97-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030085_zpsca9d7b97.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030086_zps3e17d88a-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030086_zps3e17d88a.jpg.html)

ECU mounted
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030087_zps85a4c8cf-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030087_zps85a4c8cf.jpg.html)

rickpaw

07-07-2013, 04:11 PM

Also mocked up the intake tubes. Looks like I have to get a new fan as the Mark VII fan is too thick, and interfered with the intakes.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030083_zpse941cc1a-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030083_zpse941cc1a.jpg.html)

mounted the trans cooler
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030088_zps90b20c72-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030088_zps90b20c72.jpg.html)

rickpaw

07-12-2013, 09:49 AM

Installed new drive shaft from Inland Empire Driveline
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030092_zps1aaa7c15-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030092_zps1aaa7c15.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030093_zps07586ef5-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030093_zps07586ef5.jpg.html)

The stock transmission pan interfered with the pass side O2 sensor, so a replacement pan for a Tahoe was ordered.

The old pan next to the replacement one. The new one has a notch on the corner that clears the O2 sensor.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030090_zpsbc3ba624-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030090_zpsbc3ba624.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/07/P1030091_zpsc47de25e-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030091_zpsc47de25e.jpg.html)

rickpaw

08-19-2013, 03:59 AM

Looks like I'm behind on my updates.

Been working feverishly to get the car ready for cruising the coast in Oct.

Installed Champion rad/Meradyne fan since the Mark V fan is too thick

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030106_zpscadcf466-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030106_zpscadcf466.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030107_zps88a2bca6-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030107_zps88a2bca6.jpg.html)

Bought this little guy from ebay to hook the steam vent to.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030108_zps1788d7df-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030108_zps1788d7df.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030109_zpsf4756965-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030109_zpsf4756965.jpg.html)

Engine compartment shot. Everything is hooked up.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030111_zps4c512046-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030111_zps4c512046.jpg.html)

rickpaw

08-19-2013, 04:00 AM

Bought a Procar Sportsman Pro seat to replace the Elite seats I sold awhile back

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030117_zpsc42e855b-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030117_zpsc42e855b.jpg.html)

My 3 year old sign of approval
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030114_zps2f73bf29-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030114_zps2f73bf29.jpg.html)

rickpaw

08-19-2013, 04:07 AM

Over the last weekend tried to start the engine for the first time. There was minor fuel leak around the pressure gauge. Turned out the AN fitting was just finger tight. Got that fixed. No other leaks was found. I was stoked.

First start. It ran for 2-3 seconds, then stumbled and died. Have a code (P0102-MAF sensor). Click on the images for video links at photobucket.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/th_P1030146_zps315e8e0e-1.jpg (http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt250/rickpaw/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030146_zps315e8e0e.mp4)

Checked voltage at the MAF sensor. 5 volt at yellow/black, 12V at pink/black. Decided to unplug the MAF sensor, and this time the engine stayed running.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/th_P1030147_zps388fde65-1.jpg (http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt250/rickpaw/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030147_zps388fde65.mp4)

Any thoughts on the MAF issue? I'm going to check for vacuum leaks next.

sebtarta

08-19-2013, 05:43 AM

That is great progress, did you call PSI and ask them about it?

rickpaw

08-19-2013, 06:24 AM

That is great progress, did you call PSI and ask them about it?

Yes, Jon @ PSI and I had been exchanging emails over the weekend. I searched for topics regarding P0102 code and one of the causes is vacuum leak. So I will check for vacuum leak when I get home.

rickpaw

08-26-2013, 04:31 AM

Sorted out all the codes, MAF error codes was because I left the vacuum ports on the intake open. Took me a bit to figure out, as old school engines will still run. Had transmission error codes, turn out I had plugged in the harness plug wrong way. Cleaned up the wiring a little bit, put the front end back on and took her on a shakedown run around the neighborhood last night.

qjOJSlDODWs

rickpaw

09-03-2013, 04:15 AM

Took the car out for a 60-mile round trip run yesterday. The car ran great. The engine purred around 2500 rpm @ 80 mph. No vibrations anywhere. The power was incredible. The engine kept pulling up to 7000 rpm, whereas the old Pontiac kind of dropped off at around 4k rpm. Should have done the swap in the beginning.

Few things that I wish I could have done differently. First, the Dynatech headers hang way too low, about 3" above the ground, so I scrapped it every time backing out of my driveway. Will have to look at something different down the road. Second, the Holley accessory brackets work, but it takes too much space along the sides. Something like VA frontrunner is the ticket, but just take too much $$$.

Now I just have to take it to get the AC charged, then I'm set.

68firebird

09-03-2013, 05:09 AM

Great Job!! I'm jealous!

rickpaw

09-16-2013, 11:18 AM

Drove the car for a 60 mile around trip yesterday. I need to check the fuel sender, as it was showing the fuel level at the 1/4 tank mark, but the car surged as if it was running out of fuel. Pulled off the freeway to a gas station and the engine quit at the entrance, and I coasted to the pump.

19 days to Cruisin the Coast.

Buryingthesun

09-16-2013, 01:51 PM

I cannot wait to go LSX with my 67'

rickpaw

09-17-2013, 03:08 AM

I cannot wait to go LSX with my 67'

It's worth it.

Buryingthesun

09-17-2013, 04:43 AM

It's worth it.

Its my damn budget, one day it will come until then I just dream of banging gears

rickpaw

09-27-2013, 03:50 AM

Drove the car to work yesterday, put another 70 miles on her. I also got the windows tinted. Made a huge difference in the interior heat. I can actually feel the AC working now. LOL.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/09/20130926_1233102_zps12cafe8f-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/20130926_1233102_zps12cafe8f.jpg.html)

68firebird

09-27-2013, 04:08 AM

Looks great man!!!!

Z06vet

09-27-2013, 04:30 AM

Hope to catch up with you at cruisin the coast. Car looks great.
Scott

rickpaw

09-27-2013, 05:35 AM

Thanks guys.

Scott, you have my cell #. Call/text if you want to catch up. We're planning to leave Houston first thing Wednesday am, so we should arrive there late afternoon, early evening.

rohrt

09-27-2013, 06:14 AM

Nice. You made it look easy.

Z06vet

09-27-2013, 06:39 AM

I have your # saved. I'm heading over thur morning early. I'll give you a call.
Scott

rickpaw

10-16-2013, 12:05 PM

Came back from cruisin the coast. Total 982 miles driven. The car did great, other than fuel pressure issues that happened 4 times. I posted the issues in the fuel injection section, hopefully someone can chime in. The headers hang too low, and I left bits of it somewhere on I-10 east of New Orleans. CTC was a blast, lots of cars, weather was great. Too bad I couldn't meet up with anyone on here.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/P1010016_zps2d4f49d3-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1010016_zps2d4f49d3.jpg.html)

My VHX gauges record the highest speed attained. No explaination needed. :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/P1010067_zpsa37fd6f0-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1010067_zpsa37fd6f0.jpg.html)

Z06vet

10-16-2013, 12:22 PM

Tu- I forgot my laptop, where I had your message/phone # saved. I should have sent you my #. Sucks, sorry about that. For sure that was the most crowded I have ever seen cruisin the coast. I looked for your car, but with 10K + cars the chances were low..
Scott

rickpaw

10-17-2013, 03:15 AM

Scott, too bad we did not have a chance to meet up. I'd love to take a look at your cars. We were at the corner of Beach Blvd/Hewes Ave along with other 12 1st-gen Firebirds. Thursday I was at Edgewater Mall, Sat we went down to Bay St Louis and Pass Christian.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/10/P1000978_zps70497275-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1000978_zps70497275.jpg.html)

68400BIRD

10-21-2013, 06:17 AM

Great job Tu. Looks like a great time. Great picture with all of the 1st gens.

rickpaw

10-28-2013, 05:31 AM

Great job Tu. Looks like a great time. Great picture with all of the 1st gens.

Thanks. We had a great time at CTC. My next long road trip will be Goodguys in Dallas in spring 2014.

Quick update on the car. I've replaced the Aeromotive 340 fuel pump with an ACDelco EP381 pump. From my research, the A340 is way too big for my stock motor, and I've had issues with it overheated on the trip to CTC (with fuel tank either full or 3/4 full). Hopefully the ACDelco pump works out. Also replaced the knock sensors and harness since the engine's been throwing codes for one of the knock sensors. After that, the motor is much more responsive (by seat of the pants).

SamHatco

10-28-2013, 06:25 AM

:twothumbs:twothumbs

Sam

32deucecoupe

11-28-2013, 10:10 AM

FireBeater

02-13-2014, 06:10 PM

Can you post some pictures of these Seats in your car? I am thinking about these for my car as well. I have heard that they might be to tall. Did you use the Procar seat brackets? or make some?

thanks.

Bought a Procar Sportsman Pro seat to replace the Elite seats I sold awhile back

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030117_zpsc42e855b-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030117_zpsc42e855b.jpg.html)

My 3 year old sign of approval
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/P1030114_zps2f73bf29-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1030114_zps2f73bf29.jpg.html)

rickpaw

02-14-2014, 04:52 AM

I'll take some this weekend. The brackets are from Procar. The seats do sit a tad tall (due to the brackets). I will mod the brackets later to lower the seats down some. I'm 5'11" and have about 2" of clearance between my head and headliner though.

rickpaw

02-14-2014, 04:53 AM

Great article, with this information I hope my swap goes just as smooth. Waiting for the new hooker/Holley 1st Gen mounts and headers to come out to start mine Great thing about this site is all the lessons learned that are passed on. I have learned that with research on these sites and patience most anything can be done at home and not by a shop.

Your cars looks great and makes me want to get mine on the road. Good luck.

Sorry I missed your thread.

Thanks for the compliments. The new Hooker set up seem to the ticket. The Dynatech headers are hanging too low for my taste (even with the recommended DSE mounts)

Josue

02-14-2014, 07:12 AM

rickpaw

02-14-2014, 08:33 AM

Great thread! I love finding threads where people do exactly what I'd like to do, makes researching so much easier. haha

How do you like the power of the 5.3? Is it enough? Or do you wish you would have beefed it up a bit before installing it (head work, cam, etc.), or went with a LS1/2/3?

I'm quite happy with the 5.3. It has plenty of prep and will pin you in your seat. On highway speeds it just pulls and pulls. On the downside, it's too quiet (bone stock). I'd stick a cam in it the next time around.

Josue

02-14-2014, 09:04 AM

Haha...yea, the sound of a cammed LS makes me grin ear to ear, so that would be the very least I'd do to one prior to install. I imagine the 5.3 is way more available and affordable vs. typical LS's as well, so I like that aspect of choosing this motor.

You having to go with the Holley accessories bracket(s) setup, was that a direct result of the DSE motor mounts? Or is that just necessary when putting truck LS's into these first gen's?

rickpaw

02-14-2014, 10:19 AM

The Holley brackets were (still are) one of the cheapest options, and have a factory look to them. It was not because of the mounts. I couldn't use the truck mounts since they are too tall. You may be able to use the truck brackets if you notch the frame cross member and lower the motor. I've seen one Camaro done this way, but the down side is the oil pan became the lowest point.

5.3 is widely available (at least in Tx). I walked into a junk yard and asked for a 5.3. I had a choice of 3 for $400 (all were under 100k miles). I ended up buying a complete engine/tranny package.

Josue

02-14-2014, 11:54 AM

67machrod

02-14-2014, 12:49 PM

rickpaw

02-18-2014, 07:19 AM

Can you post some pictures of these Seats in your car? I am thinking about these for my car as well. I have heard that they might be to tall. Did you use the Procar seat brackets? or make some?

thanks.

Here are some pictures of the procar seats in the car.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/P1010658_zps09497684-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1010658_zps09497684.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/P1010654_zps383d220f-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1010654_zps383d220f.jpg.html)

Distance from top of seat to the headliner
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/P1010655_zps1239093c-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1010655_zps1239093c.jpg.html)

Distance from seat bottom to the floor
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2014/02/P1010657_zps2cd30d40-1.jpg (http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/media/67%20Firebird%20LS%20swap/P1010657_zps2cd30d40.jpg.html)

rickpaw

02-18-2014, 07:28 AM

Damn...that's an awesome price!

Are you happy with the auto as well? Or can you see yourself switching to a manual trans in the future? I didn't see any when I read through your thread, but were there any oddball parts/procedures in hooking up the newer trans to an older car like this, or was it easy-peasy?

I'm quite happy with the auto right now. I do want to take the car out on the road course/auto-x eventually so I'll see if the auto holds up. It was pretty easy to hook up the transmission. Newer trans don't have the mechanical drive for the speedo, so if you're still using your old speedo, you'll need an interface box or convert the tail shaft to mechanical drive. I have VHX guages in mine so I just hooked up the speedo to the ECU.

Hi Tu. Which place did you go to with those 5.3 for $400? Thanks

I think it was Mario's (off of Airline near West Rd). They were asking $650 with 3 mos warranty or $400 w/o. I did bargain with them though to get them to drop the price to $400. I did not even try hard. I offered them $400 and they said Ok.

Josue

02-18-2014, 08:28 AM

Nice....thanks for the info!

When I get my '68, I always told myself I'd want to convert the 2sp powerglide to a manual, just to have more fun since it'd be a weekend/fair weather toy. But, if I could get a complete drivetrain on the cheap like this, that money could be spent elsewhere to beef up other parts of the car!

p.s.- I tried looking through your build thread, but all your pics are gone. :(

rickpaw

02-18-2014, 10:44 AM

Sorry about that. I reorganized my PB account, and it wiped out the pictures. You can look thru the pictures here

http://s616.photobucket.com/user/rickpaw/library/67%20Firebird%20restoration?sort=6&page=1

FireBeater

02-18-2014, 05:00 PM

Thanks for posting the pictures about the seats. They look really good and look like they fit very nicely. You helped me make up my mind.

67speedfreak

02-18-2014, 07:02 PM

Those seats look really nice in there !

etrone76

05-06-2014, 11:23 AM

rickpaw

05-06-2014, 04:56 PM

Have you changed out your headers yet? I have the same issue with my Dynatech headers. I only have about 3" clearance, trying improve that now with changing my mounts but it may be a lost cause. Do you have any pics of the ground clearance you have? Thanks, great build too.

No I still have the same Dynatech headers. I swapped the motor mounts around and gained close to an inch. Ridetech's Velocity Camaro was used by Dynatech to develop the headers and Ridetech had the motor mounts flipped around. You can see the mounts in post #57 of the build thread.

https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/40893-Ridetech-com-68-camaro?p=372493#post372493

gator68428

07-25-2017, 08:01 AM

rickpaw

07-28-2017, 05:58 AM

Nice build. Any recent updates? Have you done anymore CTCs or other events?

Now that you flipped the motormounts around, how much room between the floor and collector flange do you have?

That's also an issue with Hooker Super comp headers for vintage Pontiac engine. There's more than an inch between collector and floor. One of the headers I cut it down all the primary tubs and welded together an inch higher, tucking up the collector closer to the floor, gaining a valuable inch of ground clearance.

Hi Mitch,

No real update on the car. I competed as first timer in Optima event 2015, then cruisin the coast/power tours. Although I have plans for the car in the fall/winter (sort of part 3 of the car). Plans include 6.0/t56 swap, beefing up the chassis/front coil-overs; re-organize/redo the interior/additional heat shielding.

I pulled the dynatech headers off the car. I added the AFX spindles which lowered the car more, and the headers were just simply too low. I put Holley's midlength headers on the car now, and the exhaust is tucked up above the subframe. I've heard/seen pictures of updated Dynatech headers and they did improve the ground clearance.

When I had the Pontiac 400, I used reproduction Ramair manifolds on the car, and did not have any exhaust clearance issue.