Drivetrain

Background While most automotive research efforts have been aimed at performance improvements, cost reduction, and driver safety/comfort, the issue of emission control, propelled by government regulations, exerts an influence on design and system evolution. The Clean Air Act of 1970, a strengthening of pollution laws dating back to the mid-1950s,...

Overview For most LS engine swaps, the engine mount issue is a minor one because so many aftermarket solutions exist for virtually all American muscle and sport cars. Alas, the British Jaguar hasn’t received the same aftermarket attention since LS swaps are relatively rare. Therefore, the problem of how to...

Overview One of the more complicated fitment issues concerns the LS3 exhaust manifold on the left side of the engine. The right side is easy — there is plenty of room — since there is no steering column in the way. The left driver’s side has the protruding steering column,...

The GM Performance LS3 Connect & Cruise system selected for our restomod project represents the fifth generation Camaro SS and C6 Corvette 6.2L technology. The “Connect & Cruise” packaging mates the LS3 with the 4L65E automatic transmission and also includes the harness, ECU, and other components critical to engine operation....

Engine bay limitations Once beyond the issue of whether the engine actually fits into the engine bay (and the Chevy LS3 does fit), fitment research must expand to the so-called front drive accessory system, a pulley array that rotates the water pump, alternator, power steering, and air conditioning accessories. The...

Comparative RPM profiles Our 1972 XJ6 came equipped with a Borg Warner BW12 automatic transmission (three gears with ratios of 2.40, 1.47, and 1.00) and a 3.54:1 Salisbury differential. With stock 15″ tires, the original cruising RPM profile is: STOCK XK6/BW12 CRUISING RPM PROFILE The General Motors 4l60E automatic transmission...