EFI Reliability Throttle-body or multi-port fuel injection starts first crank—even in 30 °F mornings.
Proven Durability Factory LS blocks handle 500+ hp with minimal reinforcement.
Value & Resale Restomods with LS swaps consistently command higher resale in the Las Vegas collector market.
LS Engine Variants & Options
LS1 (5.7L)
~345 hp / 350 lb-ft; cast-iron block; common in ’97–’06 Camaros/Firebirds.
LS2 (6.0L)
~390 hp; aluminum block; used in ’05–’07 GTOs and ’05–’08 SSRs.
LS3 (6.2L)
~430 hp; aluminum block with high-flow heads; popular restomod choice.
LQ4 / LQ9 (6.0L)
Truck-based; inexpensive cast-iron block; easily upgradable to 400+ hp.
LS6, LS7, LSA, LT1, LT4
High-end variants for specialized builds; LS7 (505 hp) and supercharged LSA/LT4 options.
Each engine choice balances cost, weight, and power. Common swaps for classic Camaros, Chevelles, and Tri-Fives hinge on clearances and front-end geometry.
Las Vegas Considerations: Heat & Altitude
Extreme Heat Ambient can exceed 110 °F; choose high-capacity radiators, dual electric fans, and temperature-resistant hoses to avoid boil-over.
Dust & Sand Fine particulates clog air filters and wear bearings. Use dry-element cold-air intakes with pre-filters or sealed cold-air boxes.
Elevation (~2,000 ft) Engines lose ~6–8% of sea-level power; dyno tuning must include barometric correction to optimize air/fuel at elevation.
Cooling Add-Ons Underdrive pulleys, aluminum OEM-style oil pans with windage trays, and supplemental oil coolers maintain thermal stability under load.
Preparing Your Classic for an LS Swap
Chassis & Suspension
Reinforce motor mounts and crossmember.
Upgrade steering shafts and drop pitman arm if needed for envelope clearance.
Firewall & Footwell Clearance
LS intakes sit taller; check firewall intrusion against stock hood.
Trim or notch inner fender if necessary.
Brake & Fuel Systems
Ensure master cylinder and booster are rated for increased horsepower.
Upgrade fuel pump to 255 lph+ unit, install ¾″ fuel lines, AN fittings.
Exhaust Routing
Select LS-specific headers or custom fabricated primaries to clear frame rails.
A solid foundational prep reduces surprises during the swap and ensures longevity.
The 777 Motorsports LS Swap Process
1. Vision Session & Platform Assessment
We start with an in-shop or mobile consultation to:
Inspect engine bay dimensions, subframe design, and hood clearance.
Review desired power level, period-correct vs. resto-rod approach.
LS-specific long-tube headers clear sway bars and subframes.
3″ stainless exhaust with X-pipe for scavenging and canyon-tone.
Cooling
High-capacity core radiators, dual electric fans, coolant recovery tank.
Optional engine oil cooler and transmission cooler to handle desert runs.
Transmission Pairings
4L60E: versatile, readily available, simple bolt-on to many GM bellhousings.
4L80E: for big-block LS builds or towing; stronger internals.
Tremec T56: 6-speed manual, perfect for resto-mods seeking classic-manual feel.
10R80: modern 8-speed for full electronic integration with Coyote and GM LT variants.
Couple transmissions with proper crossmember kits, torque converters, and shift control modules.
Service Areas Around Las Vegas
Serving Southern Nevada from 3271 S Highland Dr #709, Las Vegas, NV 89109, including:
Summerlin (The Ridges, The Trails, Sun City)
Henderson (Green Valley, Anthem, Inspirada)
North Las Vegas (Aliante, Eldorado)
Boulder City & Lake Mead
Paradise (The Strip) & Spring Valley
We offer enclosed transport for swaps within a 45-mile radius, ensuring your classic arrives safely.
Cost, Timeline & Financing
Swap Type
Parts Cost
Labor Cost
Total Range
Timeline
Basic LS1/LS2 Swap
\$6,000–\$8,000
\$4,000–\$6,000
\$10,000–\$14,000
3–4 weeks
LS3 Crate Engine Swap
\$8,500–\$10,000
\$5,500–\$7,500
\$14,000–\$17,500
4–6 weeks
High-End LS7/LT4 Builds
\$12,000–\$15,000
\$7,000–\$9,000
\$19,000–\$24,000
6–8 weeks
Financing Options: 0% APR for 6 months on orders over \$5,000 through Snap Finance and Synchrony. Bundle with Brake or Suspension upgrades for package discounts.
Case Study: ’67 Camaro LS3 Restomod
Starting Point: Numbers-matching 350ci small block, tired factory 3-speed auto.
Goals: 430 hp / 424 lb-ft, modern drivability, period appearance.
Modifications:
LS3 crate engine
4L80E automatic with 3000 rpm stall converter
LS-swap headers, 3″ stainless dual exhaust
Holley HP EFI & custom harness
Aluminum radiator, dual SPAL fans
Results:
0–60 mph in 4.8 s at 2,070 ft elevation
Smooth idle, no vapor lock on 110 °F days
Show winner at Summerlin Cars & Coffee
Owner Testimonial:
“777 Motorsports turned my driver-quality Camaro into a canyon-carving beast—I don’t miss the old engine one bit.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you preserve my factory oil pan? → We offer swap-specific pans (road, truck, or modified) to clear crossmembers; factory pans rarely fit without modification.
Will an LS swap hurt my classic’s value? → Quality LS restomods often increase resale value—especially with documented workmanship and reversible mounts.
How do you handle emissions compliance? → We integrate O₂ sensors and catalytic converters where required; Nevada’s smog inspectors accept GM ECM-controlled systems.
Can I drive the car daily after an LS swap? → Absolutely—EFI reliability and modern cooling allow daily driving even in Henderson’s heat.
Do you provide a warranty? → Yes—1 year/12,000 mile on parts and labor; crate-engine warranties extend per GM policy.
How do you manage hood clearance? → We mock-up engine and intake in CAD, then trial-fit components under the closed hood before final assembly.
What maintenance does an LS swap require? → Standard service intervals: oil/filter every 5,000 mi, spark plugs every 50,000 mi, fuel filter every 30,000 mi, coolant every 2 years.
Ready to Modernize Your Classic?
Unlock reliable power and everyday drivability with an LS swap from 777 Motorsports. Call (844) 777-1296 or schedule your free consultation today—let us transform your Las Vegas classic into a modern performance legend.
