GM's LT1/LT4 engines represented the highest level of small-block V-8 develop-ment for the period between the legendary small-block Chevrolet and the introduction of the LS-series V-8. They powered all of the hottest production vehicles of the 1990s, including the Corvette, Camaro/Firebird, and Caprice/Impala SS. These enhanced small-blocks were reliable and strong, and can be built to impressive performance levels on a relatively small budget, with the right upgrades.
This book guides you through the factory and aftermarket components of the LT1/LT4 engines, offering sound performance advice and recommendations. Additionally, complete engine buildup recipes are provided, along with their respective horsepower and torque levels. You can follow the advice of experts and achieve targeted results for your own project.
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: Engine Block
Basic Design
Year and Model Differences
Desirability
Upgrades and Modifications
Oil Pan, Oil Pump, Pickup and Windage Tray
Chapter 2: Rotating Assembly
Crankshaft
Connecting Rods
Pistons
Flywheel
Hub and Dampener
Chapter 3: Heads
Valves
Head Flow Data
Performance Capabilities
Factory Heads
Aftermarket Heads
Chapter 4: Valvetrain
Timing Chain and Cover
Camshaft
Lifters
Pushrods
Rocker Arms
Valve Locks and Retainers
Spring Seats
Valves and Valvesprings
Chapter 5: Air and Fuel Management
Intakes: LT1 vs. LT4
Production Injectors
Exhaust Headers
Electronic Control Module
Modes of ECU Operation
Chapter 6: Ignition and Electronic Controls
Optispark
Ignition Coil
Wiring Harness
Chapter 7: Assembly
Prepping for Assembly
Bottom End Assembly
Top End Assembly
Chapter 8: Dyno Results
Build #1 Craig Nyhus 383-ci LT1
Build #2 Dan Napoleone 383-ci LT4
Build #3 Gary Rudolf 355 LT1
Build #4 Buck Benziger 402-ci LT1
Build #5 Ryan Custodio 355 LT1 Supercharged
Build #6 Jim Hall 402-ci LT1
Build #7 John Schaefer 383
Build #8 Ron Bilyeu 409
Build #9 Golen Engine Service 396-ci LT1
Build #10 TPIS Intake Test Motor
Build #11 Mooney LT1 392
Build #12 Todd Danielson/Mooney LT1 396
Build #13 368 for Bonneville Salt Flats
Appendix: Cylinder Head Flow Data
Source Guide
GM's LT1/LT4 engines represented the highest level of small-block V-8 develop-ment for the period between the legendary small-block Chevrolet and the introduction of the LS-series V-8. They powered all of the hottest production vehicles of the 1990s, including the Corvette, Camaro/Firebird, and Caprice/Impala SS. These enhanced small-blocks were reliable and strong, and can be built to impressive performance levels on a relatively small budget, with the right upgrades.
This book guides you through the factory and aftermarket components of the LT1/LT4 engines, offering sound performance advice and recommendations. Additionally, complete engine buildup recipes are provided, along with their respective horsepower and torque levels. You can follow the advice of experts and achieve targeted results for your own project.
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: Engine Block
Basic Design
Year and Model Differences
Desirability
Upgrades and Modifications
Oil Pan, Oil Pump, Pickup and Windage Tray
Chapter 2: Rotating Assembly
Crankshaft
Connecting Rods
Pistons
Flywheel
Hub and Dampener
Chapter 3: Heads
Valves
Head Flow Data
Performance Capabilities
Factory Heads
Aftermarket Heads
Chapter 4: Valvetrain
Timing Chain and Cover
Camshaft
Lifters
Pushrods
Rocker Arms
Valve Locks and Retainers
Spring Seats
Valves and Valvesprings
Chapter 5: Air and Fuel Management
Intakes: LT1 vs. LT4
Production Injectors
Exhaust Headers
Electronic Control Module
Modes of ECU Operation
Chapter 6: Ignition and Electronic Controls
Optispark
Ignition Coil
Wiring Harness
Chapter 7: Assembly
Prepping for Assembly
Bottom End Assembly
Top End Assembly
Chapter 8: Dyno Results
Build #1 Craig Nyhus 383-ci LT1
Build #2 Dan Napoleone 383-ci LT4
Build #3 Gary Rudolf 355 LT1
Build #4 Buck Benziger 402-ci LT1
Build #5 Ryan Custodio 355 LT1 Supercharged
Build #6 Jim Hall 402-ci LT1
Build #7 John Schaefer 383
Build #8 Ron Bilyeu 409
Build #9 Golen Engine Service 396-ci LT1
Build #10 TPIS Intake Test Motor
Build #11 Mooney LT1 392
Build #12 Todd Danielson/Mooney LT1 396
Build #13 368 for Bonneville Salt Flats
Appendix: Cylinder Head Flow Data
Source Guide