Hey guys Im currently searching for a 80's El Camino and want to get more power and a little better mileage out of it. I hate dealing with 8 miles of vacuum lines and a measly 150hp and 240 torque aint gonna cut it. My goals are 275-300 HP and 325+ ft/lbs torque. I also plan to keep rear end gearing between 3.08-3.42 range. My goal is 25 MPG while cruising at 65-70 MPH on the freeway. If I could squeeze more out if it I would be ecstatic. I am thinking maybe a TPI 305 with a little head work, a small performance cam, with intake and exhaust. Or a LT1 motor with just a open air intake and a good exhaust. If I can find a good deal I would consider a 4.8 or 5.3 LS swap but think the work and cost would be more than the others. Also I cant do much to the swapped engine cuz I have to deal with California emissions. So if I swap to a newer motor, that motor must keep its smog equipment operational. I will be doing all the work myself. Which swap would be best for my power and mileage goals? I know this is not a Honda but I want to drive the car on a regular basis, go on long trips, and use for camping, so want some good mileage to go along with some decent V8 power.
Best swap for MPG/HP TPI, LT1, LS 4.8/5.3??
- Thread starter trailblazr81
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I am certainly not an expert on California swap rules, but it sounds like a giant hassle. I assume you have a carbed 305 now? A TBI would be the easiest swap while retaining emissions equipment and would gain some power and mpg (not alot). They are cheap and extremely reliable and a bolt-in. Personally, I wouldn't bother with a TPI. I feel the LT1 is a simpler swap that gives you better power and economy. Modest gearing will get mid-20's. The most complicated part of that swap will be the EVAP system and adding another CAT + downstream O2 sensors. Most everything else is attached to the engine itself. The engine is a bolt-in, the transmission isn't. The LS swaps are certainly more involved. My understanding is that, in California, truck engines can only be swapped into trucks and cars into cars. I imagine the emissions compliance would be work, for sure, but there will be more power and better mpg.
So, after all that, I can't say which is "best" for you. Since I don't know you or your vehicle, you'll need to ask yourself some honest questions. What's your skill level and budget? Is your car really worth the investment? Do you have a place to do an involved swap?
So, after all that, I can't say which is "best" for you. Since I don't know you or your vehicle, you'll need to ask yourself some honest questions. What's your skill level and budget? Is your car really worth the investment? Do you have a place to do an involved swap?
I couldnt use the cars original transmission with a LT1? If not what needs to be done? Cross member and driveshaft shirtening? I will have to check but if I use a LS from a light duty half ton I think I can use it in a el camino. If not can I use a 5.3 out of a car? Im pretty sure since they are FWD some stuff will need to be changed.
Like I said, I'm no expert on California law. In my state my '66 El Camino is considered a pickup. Not sure about yours.
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