SBC LT-1 Questions, Help needed

I was originally planning on a standard SBC 350 engine, 700R4 trans combo for a Deuce coupe project, but I came across a good deal on a complete '96 aluminum head LT-1 from a Z-28 Camaro. The engine is complete with an uncut wiring harness, ECU, all sensors, A/C, alternator, starter, P/S pump, exhaust manifolds, etc, etc, a very complete set-up.

Can a 700R4 still be used with this engine or would it need a 4L60 to complete the package since its computer controlled? What are the Pros/Cons regarding the '96 LT-1? Is the 4L60 a better trans choice instead of the 700R4, what are the Pros/Cons of these trans?

Mike

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Originally Posted by Mike52

I was originally planning on a standard SBC 350 engine, 700R4 trans combo for a Deuce coupe project, but I came across a good deal on a complete '96 aluminum head LT-1 from a Z-28 Camaro. The engine is complete with an uncut wiring harness, ECU, all sensors, A/C, alternator, starter, P/S pump, exhaust manifolds, etc, etc, a very complete set-up.

Can a 700R4 still be used with this engine or would it need a 4L60 to complete the package since its computer controlled? What are the Pros/Cons regarding the '96 LT-1?

Mike

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They were very good engines; I think the only downer for the LT1 was some problems with the Duraspark ignition but I believe that was on the earlier models. The 700R4 will directly bolt up but you may have to see if your computer has any provisions for transmission/ engine control that need to be reprogrammed so that they're out of the picture. The speed sensor in the 4L60 probably plays a part in timing and fuel control.

Mike,

Here is one of the best summaries for the LT-1 that I have found:

http://www.9c1.com/technical/LT1_rebuild/ar99928.htm

Hope it helps

Mike in Tucson

Falcon, thanks for your help, I've read about the pitfalls of the Optispark set-up, it seems water is the enemy of these units (odd because it's mounted behind the water pump) and the cap & rotor can wear quickly.

Mike, thanks for the link, I found and read the entire page last night , but it didn't give any info on the trans questions I have.

Mike (in Florida)

I got some answers to my questions from Scott at The Detail Zone, a spin-off of Ron Francis Wiring, and from Ed at Fast Chip in Tulsa,OK. I liked what they told me so I made the deal for the LT-1, I'm going up this weekend to pick it up. :D

BTW, get ready for more questions later :confused:

Mike