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Modified cross member

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Clearance at PS pump

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Clearance at firewall after moving motor foward 3/8".

More pics

First is oil pan hanging below frame. Have to be careful over bumps.

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Clearance issue fixed with some fiberglass work and cutting off coil bracket bolt tower.

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Heater box interference before pic

Second Test Fit

I purchased new motor mounts for the frame and installed 1" further back. This allowed clearance for the power steering pulley against the gear box. Intake is sitting a little high so I'll be putting a cowl hood on. Alternator may sit to high also. I removed the stock wiring harness and computer today. I'll be sending new computer off to be programmed this week and installing the modified harness.

The monte without a heart

I removed the old motor this weekend to get ready for the modifications and prep for the new motor. I purchased a used wiring harness and in the process of modifying it. I removed all wires from computer that go to rear o2 sensors, oil pressure, EVAP system, A/C, etc. None of these are needed to operate this motor in a stand alone application. The headers that came with the motor I bought will not work in the G bodied Monte Carlo. I will have to get a different set later.

Looking for this rim or very similar

The LM7 5.3L

The beginning

I purchased an 86 Chevy Monte Carlo SS that has been a car I've wanted for a long time. The car is mostly stock in in good drive able condition considering the year. No major rust and a great start to for the future plans I have for it. After some research on powertrain options I came across a Craigslist ad for a LM7 5.3L Chevy truck engine and transmission. I brought it home a couple days ago. The biggest pieces are here and ready for the transformation. I will upload pics in next post. The search for more parts begins.