Third-generation Camaros and Firebirds are quickly turning into the ‘hot’ vehicle to have. They have recently gone from a car of the past, to one of the more common cars sought out by gearheads. Thanks to their lackluster powertrain, they’re also starting to get the coveted LS swap treatment. Due to increased popularity and demand, Holley/Hooker has released parts to take the guess-work out of these swaps.
This new 3rd-gen F-Body specific swap system allows you to install popular LS engines in your car. The new lineup includes engine and transmission mounts, BlackHeart headers and exhaust, and swap accessories. These components are made for a direct installation, with no further modifications needed. Learn more about the new line in the official release below.
Official Release:
Holley Announces LS Swap System for Third-Gen GM F-Bodies
Holley is proud to announce the release of LS swap components for third-generation Chevrolet Camaros and Pontiac Firebirds.
The GM third-generation F-Body has evolved from an oft-forgotten sports car of the 1980s into a capable and budget-friendly platform for hot rodders and racers of all walks of life. While the platform has proven to be competitive in various motorsports, the factory installed engines leave a lot to be desired. Luckily, Hooker Headers has the answer with their third-gen F-Body specific swap system that allows installation of the popular GM LS engines. It includes engine & transmission mounts, BlackHeart headers & exhaust systems, and swap accessories. Hooker’s platform designed LS swap system ensures direct bolt-in fitment and correct driveline angles to help LS-swapped third-gens perform to their peak potential whether it’s on the drag strip, at the autocross or any other venue.
Hooker’s engine and transmission mounts eliminate the guesswork of an engine swap. Their engine mount brackets are built of plate steel for a durable and cost effective solution. Engine placement has been optimized and all factory accessories clear. The mounts also leave plenty of space to use factory amenities like air conditioning and power steering. In fact, any GM or Holley LS accessory drive can be used. The mount brackets are designed to work perfectly with the Hooker transmission crossmember, providing the correct driveline angles. This crossmember features a divorced, adjustable torque arm mount that allows installation of a 4th-gen F-body T56, T56 Magnum, 4L60E, 4L70E, 4L80E, 4L85E, TH400 or TH200-4R transmission behind GM LS powerplants. The Holley LS retrofit oil pan (Part # 302-2) must be used in conjunction with the engine mount brackets.
Hooker’s BlackHeart team has addressed the exhaust system with longtube headers and header-back exhaust systems ready to bolt in, which take even more guesswork out of the equation. The Hooker BlackHeart headers are constructed of 304 stainless steel and feature either 1 3/4″ or 1 7/8″ primaries that feed into a 3″ merge style collector. These headers mate up to the 2.5″ BlackHeart dual-path crossover exhaust system, which is available in either 304 or 409 stainless steel. The fabricated merge style crossover helps create more power through exhaust scavenging and also provides enhanced sound attenuation. An aggressive exhaust note exits through a pair of polished mufflers and tips that are laser-etched with the Hooker logo. The system bend geometry is optimized to provide the best available ground clearance for lowered vehicles and compatibility with driveshafts up to 3.5” in diameter.
With engine swaps like this, the devil is always in the details. Those details have also been addressed by Hooker. To keep the stock fuel and brake lines cool and away from the exhaust system, Hooker has a heat shield available. Hooker also offers a heat shield for the starter, which can be used on various LS applications.
Check out the components here.
Features:
- Allows 3rd generation F-Body owners to swap in LS engines and compatible transmissions
- Direct installation requires no modifications
- All components available separately for replacement
Elizabeth is a hardcore horsepower enthusiast with unmatched intensity for making things faster and louder. She wakes up for power and performance and only sleeps to charge up for the next project that’s heading to the track. From autocross to drag racing, Elizabeth is there with you, so stay tuned for her unique perspective on horsepower news, builds, tech info, and installs — with her, it’ll never be boring!
