5.3 Vortech in my 55

[fivefivechevy]

I plan on putting a 5.3 Vortech, 4L60E transmission, and ECM from a factory take-out in my 55.
Has anyone done this? Hopefully, I can get some feedback to keep me from learning as I go.
Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[chevman57]

55 no feedback on this install but i say go for it. I have thought pretty seriously about putting one in my 72 Chevelle. We just bought an 2002 yukon with the 5.3 in it and all i can say is WOW. The pulling power in has is great. I even considered putting one in my 89 chevy pickup. A guy here that works in an auto salvage yard said they were cheap since they aren`t selling good because of the lack of problems with them.
Terry

[deadcarny]

Hi guy - I am just finishing putting a 5.7 LS1 and 4L60E in my 57 hardtop. Probably a very close swap to the 5.3 I would think. Be happy to help you if I can.!! Let me know.!

DK

[fivefivechevy]

Thanks DK, I need all the help I can get. Decision now is whether to buy turn key system or just motor & transmission. Then have to handle all ECM issues myself. I have a computer-instrument technician that works for me that is a real brain. I think he can handle most issues.

Turn key cost is about $1400.00 more, with your experience, what's best.

[deadcarny]

Go to the chat room and we can discuss it better....ok.?

[fivefivechevy]

DK,

I'm a sloooooooow typist, chat room will never work

[deadcarny]

For starters.......there are clearance issues with the oilpan configuration on the Gen 3's. If you are using a stock 55-57 frame, you must either modify the 5.3 oilpan or buy an aftermarket already done. I reworked mine to save money, but it is aluminum and will require welding it and the oil pickup tube inside. Mine is an F body transplant so the accessories are mounted down low, which requires modifying the engine crossmember. Obviously, you must mount new side style motor mounts, which require an adapter plate. Again, you can purchase or make, i made mine. You will need to install a rear trans crossmember, same story, buy or fab......again I fabbed. (I have alot more time than I have money...lol). As you can see....ther is much to do before you even start worrying about the ECM and wiring.....which by the way, you can either modify or buy (to eliminate the EGR, etc that you dont want or need), and you guessed it....I did my own. Hope this much doesnt discourage you.....I just started mine up for the first time a few days ago and it sounds awesome..!!!! Hope to be on the road this summer! Let me know if you need more info, or some pics. I have lotsa them....good luck with your decision..!!

DK

[Sweden]

Deadcarny its info like that, thats make this site so great.

[jimbo]

Check out www.ls1tech.com. I think DK has posted quite a bit over there.

[fivefivechevy]

Thanks DK,

Thanks for the info. Fabricating parts and modifying pan, we can do. I'm also planning on R&P steering. Does the pan interfere with cross member or original steering?

[deadcarny]

Hey.....I cant tell you for sure about stock steering cause I did r&p and had to clear the front of the pan for it. I attached a few pics to show ya what mine looks like...........DK

[Rick_L]

deadcarny, are those 3/4 or full length headers? Did you build or buy?

[deadcarny]

HI - they are 3/4 and I bought Bassani.......passenger side is perfect, not an exact fit on drivers side tho, required minor frame clearance.....DK

[jimbo]

Here is a discussion on hot rodding a 5.3.
http://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=26531