ls1 71 chevelle swap help

**tomcamaro97** · 05-23-2014, 05:57 PM

Doing the above ls1 swap. Have jist installed the engine and trans.. now the alternator is hitting the steering box, tried to notch both to get the clearance needed.. no go.. anyone know of any slim steering boxes that might work? Or a smaller alternator? Would prefer to keep it there.. but maybe move it to where the Ac was if I don't have any other options.. thanks for your help if you can.

**pajeff02** · 05-24-2014, 04:09 AM

Most swappers simply relocate the alternator to run up top, rather than down low at the engine mount level. There are a couple of kits to relocate it available from the aftermarket. I am unaware of any "smaller" GM power steering gears that will work. If FBJ sees this thread, he may know of something that will meet your needs.

**tomcamaro97** · 06-27-2014, 12:08 PM

so ended up using a quick ratio steering box.. and new pitman arm.. (ended up doing new idelr, centerlink, and all tie rods too.. figured i would just do it all since some of it was atleast 10 year old). ive got about .25-.5in of clearance.. should be ok given the way the engine rocks.. but if not ill relocate the alternator.

On to my next topic im hoping for some insight.. I havent really looked into it yet so im just assuming this is possible at this point.. ive got the ecu wired under the dash with full wiring diagramn, so my intent was to convert all of my gauges in my ss dash to electronic.. anyone ever try this ? im looking at the dakota digital.. but that looks like its got some mech gauges.. so maybe i dont want it, although it looks sweet as heck... i didnt want to have to run a seperate oil pressue line or any other lines.. i just wanted to use the factory lines coming off my camaros factory harness, i gotta assume they are there and would work... thoughts? tips? gauge manufactures? any help is greattly appreciated..

**pajeff02** · 06-27-2014, 12:22 PM

I believe I have seen this done somewhere... just do not recall the details.

**reedld** · 07-01-2014, 03:47 AM

I've read that guage marks will do it

Site was down when I just checked it..

Google guagemarks....

It may be cheaper and easier to switch to something newer..and your SS gauges you could keep if you ever wanted to swap back. I have no idea what it would cost, but I have heard that they do real nice work. They can clean up and restore the gauges too.

My alt is real close to my crossmember, but my engine is slightly forward so the accessories and headers clear. My BRP mounts were one of the first few ever sold by BRP (some trial and error). I'm using fbody accessories.
These guys have brackets for LS engines...somewhat pricey but popular.

KWiK Performance, Inc. - Home

I'm going to use their A/C mount when I get to that stage. Good luck and post more pics!