LFX Project start - 99 10AE - engine choice?
 

Hi all.

I've been lurking on this (and other boards) for close to two years now while I read/study/plan my conversion. Of course, I've enjoyed my weekend toy all the while.

After doing a lot of reading and you-tube watching, I've decided that an LFX with an Auto (hope to do push-button shifting & paddle-shifters) is my desired drive-train. I've seen a few build threads on the LFX, but there isn't quite the plethora of information on the LFX conversion as there is on the LSx. I've also been briefly in touch with v8Roadsters and gotten some introductory pointers.

I'll take a lot of photos & start a build-thread once I get a little deeper, but as things are just beginning, not much to show yet.

So, on to my question. I've started the hunt for my engine/trans, and it seems most are using LFX from 2012-2014 Camaro. My research indicates that the 2015 might be a potential as well, but I can't find what differences there are in the 2015 that might make it a good or bad choice. the 2015's would likely have less mileage, but I don't want to drop a bunch of money on an engine I can't use.

Anyone have any knowledge on acceptable powerplant choices for the LFX swap?

Thanks, and looking forward to bugging you guys with TONS of questions :)

Looking forward to seeing your build. I've been seeing V8roadsters do lots of lfx builds but havent seen hardly any personal lfx builds.

I looked very seriously into the LFX conversion and would have used a 2015 engine if I had ultimately decided to go that route. 2016 was the start of the LGX engine which I think shares the same bell housing but may or may not be a little longer due to changes in cylinder bore spacing.

I searched Car-Part frequently for a while looking for suitable engines and found 2015's with as few as 1000 miles on them for fairly decent prices.

Good luck with your build. I'm starting mine (JV6) shortly and will likely add a V6 section to the forum for our slightly less cylindered builds.

-Jason

Thanks Jason. I had been waiting for an update on your LFX thread. Sad to hear that I don't get to use your thread as a blue-print :)

I too have been searching car-part, and for some reason, the 2012-2014 show separately from 2015. That's what makes me think they aren't interchangeable. Maybe the differences don't matter in our use case, but something keeps the 2015's as showing an interchange on the 2012-2014.

2012-2015 will all work. I get 2015 pull outs with under 25k miles with all engine accessories, harness, pcm, gas pedal and transmission for well under $3k. Make sure you get all of it as starters, alternators, a/c compressor, p/s pump and all the brackets are real spendy to get after the fact. LKQ is a good source.

I've got a few friends in the salvage/used parts business (I'm an insurance adjuster by trade), so I have them looking for a good/clean/low mileage donor.

However, I was doing a little more research on the LFX and have a couple of thoughts/questions.

I know the Camaro version of the LFX has a few more HP than the other models, but is this purely due to the TUNE/ECM program? If I get an LFX from another vehicle, can it be tuned the same (or better) than the Camaro version? It might open up my options a bit if there are no mechanical/parts differences?

LF3? The LF3 is Cadillac's dual turbo version of the LFX pushing out 420HP and is also mated to an 8 speed Auto. Could be an awesome combo for my plans/desires. Anyone know if that's a workable combination with the LFX Kit?

Did a little more research on the LF3 (mostly just Google'ing photos, etc), and I see a couple of problems right away.
It looks like the Cadillac version may use electric steering, as there is no PS pump on the LF3. The turbo's are where the pump would be on the LFX. Also moves the alternator down a bit. I guess I *could* do a PS delete, but that would conflict with my goals of this being mostly a 'cruiser' and not a racer.
I've sent an e-mail to V8Roadsters for more info, but I'm thinking this pushes it outside my ability range (as if this build isn't already a case of me reaching for the stars :))

The twin turbo will have some fairly insurmountable packaging issues. Anything is achievable with the proper amount of time, money and effort.