1972 Chevy Nova LSX Engine Swap - Modernized!

Utilizing Turn Key Engine Supply's engine brackets, the first order of business was to attach the new rubber mounts. Note: For our application, we had to grind away the boss on the back of the rubber mounts so it would fit flush to the adapter bracket.

From there we went ahead and removed the factory truck oil pan, windage tray, and pick-up tube, swapping them out for the ones supplied in the Turn Key conversion kit.

We also removed the factory throttle body and replaced it with a larger one from Turn Key. The 5.3L already had a vacuum port on the intake, along with the new throttle body, so one will eventually need to be plugged.

Up next, the 4L60E transmission was bolted onto the engine. When using a 700-R4, 200-4R, TH350, TH400, or any other transmission of your choice, you'll need to use the converter spacer/adapter that's included with the conversion kit.

Before we installed the engine and transmission, we had to install the correct V-8 engine brackets onto the crossmember. While these aren't supplied, the mounts are available from any number of aftermarket manufacturers.

To accommodate the robust 4L60E, we had to move the transmission mount back by approximately 2 1/2 inches. This will also need to be done for a 700-R4 or 4L60. The 200-4R needs to be spaced even farther, and all assemblies will require a shorter driveshaft.

Once the engine compartment was ready, we set the engine and transmission into place and bolted everything down.

To handle cooling duties, we installed a new radiator from Alumitech Reproductions. This was a complete drop-in piece featuring an integrated trans cooler, and Alumitech even accommodated us by installing an additional steam port bung for the cylinder heads. Also available is a complete electric fan assembly, but for the time being we decided to retain the factory clutch fan instead. Either option will work; it's a matter of preference and budget.

Since our Alumitech radiator maintained the factory dimensions, it allowed us to use the factory V-8 radiator hold-down. We also liked the fact that we were able to use the factory radiator hoses from the truck by simply cutting a couple inches out of each one. What's more, this will allow for quick fixes should we ever get stranded on the side of the road with a blown radiator hose.

From there we bent up new transmission cooler lines.

To prevent steam pockets from forming in the heads, we attached a hose from the cylinder heads and connected it directly to the steam port bung on the radiator.

Moving on to the fuel system, the conversion kit comes with a new inline fuel pump, a prefilter, and a filter after the pump. Since there's an infinite number of ways to set up your system, you will need to purchase the correct fittings to connect everything. Once you have the fuel lines plumbed, it's just a matter of running a power wire from the pump to the fuel pump relay in the engine bay.