LS swap or keep the original engine? I considered an LQ9, bought a $300 Pontiac 350 instead, and sold my Firebird running and driving. The $300 was the replacement engine's purchase price. The real decision included the condition of the engine, fit, the surrounding parts, and the work needed to finish the car. Here is what that choice looked like in my garage, including the original Firebird engine sound, the Pontiac preparation work, and lessons from my Camaro. There are good reasons to build an LS swap. There are also times when fixing or replacing what you have gets you the car you wanted. Original $300 Pontiac 350 video:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRZ6aflGSD4 The Firebird ignition and carburetor work:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ySz66ESQLA Driving the L98 Camaro:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Enqb2lmboLo CHAPTERS
00:00 The engine I actually bought
00:15 The Firebird problem
00:26 Listen before buying another engine
00:38 Original Firebird engine sound
00:49 The LQ9 plan
01:19 What the $300 bought
02:19 Compare the whole job
02:55 Even a familiar swap needs fit checks
04:04 What car do you want to finish?
04:21 The Camaro driving payoff
04:54 The transmission lesson
05:54 Start with the right car
06:26 When an LS swap makes sense
07:30 How the Firebird story ended Which would you choose for your car: repair, same-family replacement, or conversion? What would change your decision? #LSSwap #Pontiac350 #MuscleCar #ProjectCar
LS Swap or Keep It? What My $300 Pontiac Taught Me
