Tip #1: Don’t rush through the wiring! It can be tedious but getting it right is key. And remember, laughter helps reduce stress, especially when things don’t go as planned!
Starting an LS swap in a 1st Gen S10 is exciting! One of the first things to consider is clearance. The engine bay can be tight, so you might need to adjust or relocate components like the steering column and battery. Make sure to measure everything before you dive in!
Absolutely! I’ve seen guys use donut gaskets to pull the headers in, but sometimes you need to notch the frame a bit. It’s all about making it fit snugly.
Don’t forget about the cooling system! An LS generates more heat than the stock engine. Upgrading to a larger radiator and ensuring you have a good fan setup is crucial, or you’ll be looking at overheating issues down the line.
Good point! I’ve been running a dual electric fan setup, and it works wonders. Also, don’t skimp on hoses; quality ones can make a big difference.
Transmission compatibility is another big hurdle. Depending on which LS engine you choose, you may need an adapter for the transmission or even a new trans altogether. I went with a 4L80E for the extra strength, but it required some custom work.
True! I’ve heard the T56 can work well too if you’re aiming for a manual setup. It can be a bit of a tight fit, but worth it for the performance!
A lot of this seems complex, but one step at a time! Make sure to plan your wiring as you’ll need a good harness. Some people recommend harness kits tailored for LS swaps, which can save headaches later.
Definitely! And don’t forget about the oxygen sensors—if you don’t wire those correctly, you’ll be chasing down error codes forever!
Speaking of sensors, it’s kind of funny how much attention people pay to those little details after the big stuff is in. It can feel like a game of Tetris fitting everything. But in the end, seeing it all come together is worth it!