kyle521

So my 3.8 motor and 4 speed tranny in my 2007 are getting old, have around 130k on them. I was wondering what it took to do a ls swap yourself. I know they make kits from motech and similar companies, but are they really needed for the $5k asking price? I am not able to do this all myself, but have knowledgable friends, can get any fabrication done relatively easily. My main concern is all the wiring that needs to be done.

I would like to keep the stock gauges and what not, dont want to strip the jeeps computer.

If I go my own route, will their be further issues down the road when compared to going with a motech kit?

For motors I was looking at a 6.2 ls but if someone can convince me on another one I'm open to suggestions. I plan on doing basic bolt-ons for a little added power but no forced induction.

It would be ideal if I could get a parts list if someone already has done something similar.

Trying to find a budget on this so I can figure out if its worth it or to just throw in another 3.8 and same tranny

And yes, I know I will need new axles, but thats a different thread and discussion

Baddkarmaracing

I have no answers for you, but I'm in for information because I'm interested in the same thing

doc5339

Me too. I just got hooked-up with one of the guys here who did a 3.8 to Hemi swap himself.

I would prefer to do a 3.6 Manual Trans To LS 5.3 AFM 6L80E swap for way less than $22,000.

Invest2m4

For the Hemi, Hotwire Auto makes a wire harness and has the computer as well. From there, you can do just about everything on your own. I'd spend the few hundred to buy engine mounts, but that's it.

As for the LS, you'd have to ask what Motech will sell the harness and computer for. Unless someone knows of a place to get that other than motech?

A 6.2 LS is a lot of $$$. You're going to have $5-$6k into an engine from a salvage yard. I'd suggest saving the money and getting the 6.0.

kyle521

As far as budgeting this build, the one thing I would want to put money into would be the motor and tranny, I feel like I would enjoy the 6.2 more than the 6.0

What I'm concerned about is all the brackets and other miscellaneous work that it will take in order for it to run correctly, Trying to stay as cheap as possible with also putting in the best motor.

The other option, but I feel this would be outside the budget would be a 7 liter

doc5339

Looks like it would cost about $11k to purchase the LS Kit from MoTech and acquire 2012+ LS 5.3 LC9 and 6L80E with less than 40k miles on them.

Invest2m4

Which 6.2 are you looking at? The truck version of car version? Unless you are strictly road, I suggest the truck version for the power curve.

kyle521

What are the best years and models to search for 6.0? I want light weight so aluminum block is preferred

kyle521

Definitely would be the truck version. Also gave the 6.0 another look, so I guess Im between a 6.2 truck I think its a L94? and the 6.0 aluminum block, L76.

I have time to search for parts and find them at the right price, so if I can find a nicely priced 6.2 I will swing for it but the backup plan would be the L76, unless someone can recommend a better 6.0?

Invest2m4

6.0 only comes cast iron. 6.2 is aluminum and is in many vehicles. See below. In terms of introduction it goes L92, L9H, and L94. I just took a glance through car-part and to get something you would feel good about, you are looking at around $6k-$7k for the engine and trans. I'd say $7k if you are risk averse. Then you are into the Motech kit for $5200. The LS swap is more complex than a Hemi and I just can't see going it yourself and I don't think Motech has the time to break up kits (or desire). Then you have exhaust, radiator, and misc. I'd say plan $14k for a 6.2L swap.

And this is when the Hemi starts to sound way better. Power is nearly the same. Engine is much cheaper. You can get away without buying a kit. I know some guys on JKO that did hemi swaps for $8k, but noted that if done again, they could do it for $6k. That does not include the sale of your engine and trans. Downside for you auto trans guys is that the 545RFE trans is not as good as the what the LS offers. Now, the 2012+ autos with some secret sauce, are supposed to be sweet. Or, you can grab one out of an SRT. However, I am not sure if it is possible to use those in a pre-2012...

Applications:

2007-2013 Cadillac Escalade (L9H for MY 2009, L94 for MY 2010-2013)
2009 Chevrolet Tahoe
2007-2013 GMC Yukon Denali/Denali XL
2007-2013 GMC Sierra Denali
2008-2009 Hummer H2
2009-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (as RPO code L9H)
2009-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 (as RPO code L9H)