17 replies to this topic

[orangeLJ]

Will an LS1 into HQ-WB chassis need to be engineered under the new rules?

I cant seem to find a definite answer but my line of thinking was-

HQ-WB models were fitted with 350ci chevs at various stages from factory.

LS1 is essentially an injected, alloy 350 chev (well... 355)

So therefore its not an "engine conversion" as such (like putting one in an LJ torana etc)

But these new rules have me miffed.

Anyone care to help?Also, do engineers charge to have a quick phone conversation about what does and doesnt need engineering?

Edited by orangeLJ, 26 March 2012 - 08:22 AM.

[dattoman]

LS1 is actually 346

And yes you will need an engineers cert due to the emission regs required and the change of engine mounts

Theres plenty of other things... but thats 2 reasons for starters

[hanra]

Are you planning on retaining the EFI?

[orangeLJ]

yeah, the EFI will stay.

Eventually it will have a shiny procharger or similar swinging off the side.

Datto,
Is there anything specific in the regs about engine mounts though?

Also, with the EFI, thats not any different (realistically) to swapping a 308 with a 304i

[hanra]

What state are you in?

[REDA9X]

A mate of mine has just completed this mod and he's in Newcastle. He has done a lot of conversions if you're interested I could speak to him. I'll direct him to this post.

[ls2lxhatch]

The LS1 was not a factory option therefore it will require engineering.

Any engine, gearbox, diff, brakes that were not factory options require engineering.

Edited by ls2lxhatch, 26 March 2012 - 10:52 AM.

[orangeLJ]

In all states Andy?

Im in NSW.

Red, that would be EXCELLENT.

Looking to get underway sometime around August this year.

[mitchg]

Should all need engineering Chris. Engine, Box, mounts, tailshaft, fuel system, brakes, emissions equipment etc etc.
Same story as how I did the torana.

[ls2lxhatch]

In all states Andy?

Im in NSW.

It would be worth making a call to the licensing department to find out what the procedure is. As a basic rule of thumb if a brake or drive train component was not a factory option then it will require engineering.

In WA you fill in an application to modify the vehicle. If the application is approved in principle you are told what needs to be signed off on by an engineer in the approval letter. The supercharger would probably also need to be approved. In WA there are variations in the rules for commercial vehicles.

Normally an engineer would not charge you for a phone call. I would ring around, tell them what you want to do and get quotes to engineer the car.

Edited by ls2lxhatch, 27 March 2012 - 01:33 PM.

[REDA9X]

I put my mate onto this thread to have a look at

[orangeLJ]

Thanks man!

the blower will go on well and truly after the fact.

I'm contemplating a 4 link conversion in the back with bags, so that is definitely on the engineer list, but would be good to find out a heap more about the conversion in general.

[WA1TNC]

How did you go with this build mate, as I'm 95% finished with my swap. Did you find out any useful info on what to do/what not to do?
I have a feeling ill be re-doing a few things here & there. I'm currently getting all new brakes on the front including booster.

Cheers, Nig.

[orangeLJ]

Utes just ran out of rego, so stripping it soon to start.

[WA1TNC]

I called a engineer yesterday & he seemed pretty happy with what I'd done so far so when I get it back ill book it in with him & we'l go from there.

A few good things that he said which made me relax a lil was as its a ute the rear drums are fine as it goes off the weight the vehicle can carry or something, not the size of the engine, I gotta just weld a washer in the fuel filler neck to only let an unleaded pump filler in, run the dunnydore charcoal canister & a few lil things here & there.

I'd suggest keeping the rego payed up though dude, a hell of a lot easier getting it from shop to shop unless you know a bloke with a tow truck.

Cheers, Nig.