If you’re thinking about giving your classic 1964 Chevrolet Impala a serious upgrade with an LS engine swap, you’re in the right place! This process can breathe new life into your ride, combining the classic style of the Impala with the modern power and reliability of an LS engine. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you started:
What You’ll Need:
LS Engine (pick one suited for your power goals)
Engine Mounts (specific to the 1964 Impala)
Transmission (consider matching it with your LS engine)
Wiring Harness (LS-specific harness or aftermarket)
Fuel System Upgrade (modern injectors, pump)
Cooling System (radiator, hoses)
Exhaust System (headers and pipes to fit)
Steps to Complete the Swap:
Remove the Old Engine: Start by disconnecting and removing the existing engine. Make sure to label wires and hoses for easier reassembly later.
Prepare the Engine Bay: Clean up any old components that won’t be used to make room for the new LS engine. You may need to trim or modify some brackets.
Install New Engine Mounts: Secure the LS engine mounts in the chassis. Making sure they are in the correct position is crucial for alignment.
Place the LS Engine: Carefully lower the LS engine into the bay. Check alignment with the mounts and transmission.
Connect Wiring Harness: Use an LS-specific wiring harness for seamless connection with your vehicle’s systems. Wiring may take some time, so be patient.
Upgrade Fuel and Cooling Systems: Swap out the old fuel and cooling systems for ones that can handle your new engine’s needs. Don’t cut corners here, the right systems save headaches later.
Install Exhaust System: Fit your headers and ensure they don’t conflict with any chassis components. Custom fabrication may be required based on the parts chosen.
Test and Tweak: Once everything is installed, double-check all connections, fill fluids, and make sure everything is tight.
Tips:
Document Everything: Take notes or photos as you go, it will help others if they run into similar issues or questions.
Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to local car clubs or online forums if you hit a snag.
Plan for Tuning: After the swap, a good tune is essential to get the best performance out of your LS engine.
This swap can seem daunting, but with the right tools and support from this community, you can get it done! Can’t wait to hear your thoughts and experiences on this journey!
Planning an LS swap for a 1964 Impala is exciting! Start by setting a realistic budget. Factor in not just the engine, but also transmission, mounts, and any modifications. A good rough budget is around $8,000 to $12,000 if you’re going for quality parts.
Great tips, wharris! Sourcing parts can be tricky. I recommend checking out local salvage yards and online marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist. You might find some hidden gems!
I’ve done a few swaps, and the key is figuring out the modifications well in advance. The transmission tunnel and motor mounts usually need adjustments. Don’t forget about cooling systems as well!
Exactly! I was surprised at how much needs tweaking. Don’t underestimate the work involved in getting that engine in there. What brand motor mounts would you recommend?
Always go with quality mounts! I prefer Energy Suspension or LSX Innovations. They have solid options tailored for the 1964 Impala. Also, make sure to check the driveshaft length; you might need a custom one.
Wiring can be intimidating, but there are great aftermarket options. Companies like Painless Wiring offer harnesses specifically for LS swaps. Plus, don’t shy away from using a DIY approach—just take your time!
For fuel lines, make sure to use the right diameter for LS engines (3/8" is often ideal). Stainless steel lines are durable and resist corrosion. A quick tip: run the lines along the frame to keep them safe and out of the way.
I completed my LS swap on a '64 Impala last summer. It was quite a journey! First, you’ll need the right engine mounts and harness for the LS conversion. Trust me, sourcing the correct components will save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Great advice! I found that using a swap kit designed for the Impala made the installation process much easier. What specific mounts did you end up using?
I’ve heard that wiring can be a huge pain point in these swaps. What tools do you recommend for creating a clean wiring setup? Any tips for avoiding shorts?
Definitely invest in a good wiring harness and some quality connectors. I bought a soldering kit which helped me ensure everything was solid. A loose connection is a common pitfall!
Another tip: pre-fit your engine before everything is painted or installed to get a feel for any clearance issues. You don’t want to be surprised later!