Lewma's Gen3 Coupe Almost Built Thread

[lewma]

All

Should have done this a long time ago.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/3ZyXcduhUmDeDQZD8

That's my ongoing pic album that is documenting my build. No words, just pics. Hopefully the pics can provide help to other builders.

-Gen3 Coupe
-Blueprint GM427LS + T56
-IRS, AC, Power Steering


mark

[JimStone]

This is great, thank you! That's the Blueprint engine/trans combo I am interested in and there's not a bunch of information available for that in a Coupe.

Which sized driveshaft is needed?

Did you have any issues with the motor mounts or trans mounting?

How much clearance do you have under the hood? Would there be enough for an aftermarket high ram intake or a supercharger?

Thanks in advance

- Jim

[JimStone]

Also, it looks like the oil pan hangs below the frame. Did you have a solution for that?

[lewma]

This is great, thank you! That's the Blueprint engine/trans combo I am interested in and there's not a bunch of information available for that in a Coupe.

Which sized driveshaft is needed?

Did you have any issues with the motor mounts or trans mounting?

How much clearance do you have under the hood? Would there be enough for an aftermarket high ram intake or a supercharger?

Thanks in advance

- Jim

Hello Jim

- If you contact FFR and tell them the engine package you are using, you should get the correct length. I can check my inventory list when I get home for a part number
- Yes, all kinds of fitment issues when it comes to engine mounts, trans mount. Had to grind a little off the mounts and the trans plate mounts. Nothing too much but just a little with the grinder. Had to design a completely new trans mount plate as the one provided in the kit did not work for this combination. My son drew up a design and we sent it to sendcutsend.com and they did the rest. We have the designs somewhere but I'm hoping by now that FFR supplies the correct plate.
- There seems to be quite a bit of room under the hood. I can take measurements if you like

[lewma]

Also, it looks like the oil pan hangs below the frame. Did you have a solution for that?

Yes, the stock pan from Blueprint hangs a good deal below the frame. Worked with BluePrint and had to order the following:
Oil pan:

12624617

Pickup tube:

12624497

Windage tray:

12558189

Dip stick:

12570788

Dip stick tube:

12570787

Pickup tube o-ring:

12557752

Gasket:

12612350 or Improved Racing Part No. HGA-1001

It still hangs below a little.

[JimStone]

Thank you Mark

The engine sounds great in the videos. Are those the kit supplied side pipes and headers or did you go GAS'N?

I assume you got the ECU from Blueprint. How is the tune out of the box? Idle okay?

Which gear ratio did you go with for the diff? Thoughts so far?

- Jim

[Its Bruce]

What's the story on the throwout bearing?

I just recently fired up my BPE 427 LS3 and the tune is good enough to fire up, but it's very far from being good enough to count on as-is. The first ECU had a corrupt VIN and wouldn't let me flash a tune. They sent another ECU and I was able to get in. The STFTs were immediately adding fuel due to a lean idle condition. I've since turned off all fuel trims and started MAF tuning at idle. I'll be driving it over the next few weeks to dial in the MAF before going after the VE table.

[lewma]

Thank you Mark

The engine sounds great in the videos. Are those the kit supplied side pipes and headers or did you go GAS'N?

I assume you got the ECU from Blueprint. How is the tune out of the box? Idle okay?

Which gear ratio did you go with for the diff? Thoughts so far?

- Jim

Jim

Those are the standard FFR pipes, I just had them ceramic coated to fit the theme of the car

ECU seems fine with the tune that is in there however I'm planning on a Lund tune once the car is on the road

The diff is what comes with the IRS option from FFR. 3.55

[lewma]

What's the story on the throwout bearing?

I just recently fired up my BPE 427 LS3 and the tune is good enough to fire up, but it's very far from being good enough to count on as-is. The first ECU had a corrupt VIN and wouldn't let me flash a tune. They sent another ECU and I was able to get in. The STFTs were immediately adding fuel due to a lean idle condition. I've since turned off all fuel trims and started MAF tuning at idle. I'll be driving it over the next few weeks to dial in the MAF before going after the VE table.

The throwout bearing was leaking. After working with BluePrint and McLeod, they sent me a replacement bearing.
I managed to separate the engine and transmission without lifting the whole assembly out and was able to replace the bearing

No leaks so far with the new bearing

I have some MAF codes that the ECU is throwing. Still tracking those down

[JimStone]

I see you mounted your reservoirs on the firewall behind the engine. I like that because it's out of the way but do you have trouble accessing them when the body is mounted?

And is that a coolant expansion tank? Was that recommended by Blueprint?

[lewma]

Its a little tricky with the body on but I wanted them out of the way

Yes, that's an expansion tank. I read the cooling system diagrams on the engine then plumbed it in. Its likely larger than needed. Once I have more experience with this engine I may relocate it or use a smaller tank

[JimStone]

I was wondering: the LS 427 is rated at 625 hp, 565 ft-lb. So far, would you say that much power is useable as a street car? Would you choose something different if you could do it again?

I'm thinking about the 427, but I also don't want to kill myself.

[lewma]

Jim, its not street legal yet. We've just had it running around the street in go-kart mode. Yes its a step up from the coyote we have in our roadster, hopefully its not too much for street use but we'll have to wait until its running.

mark

[JimStone]

Thanks Mark. Good luck on the rest of the build

[Namrups]

My coupe has a SBF Boss 427 crate bored out to 460 cu in. 500 hp at the crank with 580 ft lbs of torque and a Sniper EFI. IRS with 3.55 gears. 18" tires. It is a beast in a 2600 lb car but IMO that's what these cars are designed for. Is it streetable ... again, IMO yes. Will I ever get it's full potential street driving? NO! By the time you shift into third you can be into triple digits. You most defiantly have to respect it but it is the most fun I have ever had in my 55 years of driving.

Having said all that, you can have a blast in these cars with a mild 302! That motor is more than enough for a 2600 lb car. But if you want to take the dragon by the tail go with the 427 and hang on!

[JimStone]

My coupe has a SBF Boss 427 crate bored out to 460 cu in. 500 hp at the crank with 580 ft lbs of torque and a Sniper EFI. IRS with 3.55 gears. 18" tires. It is a beast in a 2600 lb car but IMO that's what these cars are designed for. Is it streetable ... again, IMO yes. Will I ever get it's full potential street driving? NO! By the time you shift into third you can be into triple digits. You most defiantly have to respect it but it is the most fun I have ever had in my 55 years of driving.

Having said all that, you can have a blast in these cars with a mild 302! That motor is more than enough for a 2600 lb car. But if you want to take the dragon by the tail go with the 427 and hang on!


Scott, your SBF Boss is a monster! The torque is ridiculous and that engine sounds mean as hell. You're right, the car is designed to handle it. It's more the operator I'm worried about. I doubt I have enough restraint to not put the pedal down at every opportunity, and those Michigan trees are oh so close to the road.

Just from the re-sale standpoint the 427 makes sense though - if (gasp) selling ever was necessary. It gives that extra "fizz" factor.

[Namrups]

Scott, your SBF Boss is a monster! The torque is ridiculous and that engine sounds mean as hell. You're right, the car is designed to handle it. It's more the operator I'm worried about. I doubt I have enough restraint to not put the pedal down at every opportunity, and those Michigan trees are oh so close to the road.

Just from the re-sale standpoint the 427 makes sense though - if (gasp) selling ever was necessary. It gives that extra "fizz" factor.

Jim Your right. It is all operator. You learn real quick what 1/4 throttle is. 1/2 throttle scared me the first time. I have not even considered full throttle yet!

[lewma]

Getting closer. This is a sample of the paint color we're going with. Porsche dolphin grey.

191768

[JimStone]

Haven't seen many coupes in lighter colors. I'm excited to see how it turns out

[lewma]

Started on the dashboard. Carpeting will start this weekend hopefully.

192074

[JimStone]

Very cool custom design! Looks like a lot of work, haha

What material did you use on the top of your dash and around the digital instrument panel?

Have you had it out on the road much to have any more thoughts on the LS 427?

[MSumners]

Looking great. Are the steering wheel buttons functional? Did you add a slip ring?

[lewma]

Very cool custom design! Looks like a lot of work, haha

What material did you use on the top of your dash and around the digital instrument panel?

Have you had it out on the road much to have any more thoughts on the LS 427?


Hi Jim. Its a work in progress ;)

The material is an alcantara. This is the first dash I've done using that and i'm still learning how it likes to stretch in some ways but not in others.

Still not got much time on the 427 apart from go-karting around the street. Seems like it will be 'exciting' to drive :)

[lewma]

Looking great. Are the steering wheel buttons functional? Did you add a slip ring?

I have plans on making them functional at some point. Still sourcing a coiled cable and quick disconnects so I can hook them up.

[Its Bruce]

I have plans on making them functional at some point. Still sourcing a coiled cable and quick disconnects so I can hook them up.

https://www.motionraceworks.com/products/motion-raceworks-mono-cord-pro-steering-wheel-wiring-system

[Papa t]

What did you use on the hood around the edge to build it up. Looks like sound kind of plastic channel. I need to do the same. Thanks

[lewma]

What did you use on the hood around the edge to build it up. Looks like sound kind of plastic channel. I need to do the same. Thanks

Papa, that's standard drywall plastic corner that you can get from Home Depot or Lowes. My hood needed extending so I used that to form the shape but lined the inner sides with packing tape. I then filled the gap with HSRF but left it a little low on the surface. Removed the channel then filled the remaining with rage gold filler. Came out great. here's a pic of the hood today.

192116

[Papa t]

Looks great. Thanks for the idea.

[MC Builders]

Mark,
I am in the midst of a similar LS3 build and I see you disassembled the engine fuse box(you are braver than I am). Did you eliminate the box altogether? I have been scrolling this AM as I was about to mount the fuse box on top of the panel over the master cylinders but without the body on I am afraid there isn't enough clearance.

[lewma]

Yes, I deleted the fuse box altogether as I'm using a digital fuse system. Not entirely sure if there is enough room for the plastic fuse box above the master cylinders but you could test fit then use the firewall as a height guide. You should be able to open that box to replace fuses once the nose is lifted.

mark

[lewma]

Painter is done, hopefully bringing her home tomorrow if not raining
194886

[JimStone]

Awesome! I'm a big fan of grays and blacks, so loving your color combo. Don't think I've seen one like that. Exciting to get her home

[rhk118]

Painter is done, hopefully bringing her home tomorrow if not raining
194886

Great color combo, congrats!

[JimStone]

Lewma, your recent Google album photos and videos are amazing! The sound is just insanity!

[lewma]

Thanks Jim. It was fun ( and loud ) driving her around the neighborhood.

DMV is the next task

Mark

[JimStone]

Hey Lewma,

The Google album pics of your coupe out on the road look fantastic.

I was wondering if you've had enough seat time to make any comments on the LS 427?

When I picked up my Coupe kit a few weeks ago, Dan Golub really tried to talk me out of the stroked LS - said it'd be too much power and I'd just be driving scared instead of having fun. So now he has me questioning doing the 427 vs the non-stroked 376 (still 530 hp).

I would be giving up that extra mean stroker sound, and the bragging rights of 600+ hp.

Much appreciated!

- Jim

[lewma]

Jim

The car is a beast. We set out to build something different from the MK4 ( Gen2 Coyote ) and we've certainly reached that goal. Is the 630hp LS too much ? probably? If you control your right foot you'll be fine. It is loud, hot, loud, hot and loud but we expected that up front.

I wish I could comment more on the drivability but I've had limited seat time. I can't get my son out of the drivers seat. The car is half way through the California DMV saga but has a moving permit. We've taken it for brake and light inspection, then to the CHP for their inspection and vin assignment. Now just waiting on the smog gods to give their blessing then we should be good to get plates and be done with DMV.

The engine as received from Blueprint has a rough tune. When we took it to the CHP, the car was stalling on the drive back home. Mainly due to 1) the bad MAF intake tube I originally built ( too short and had a vacuum leak ) and 2) although Blueprint says the VSS signal from the transmission does not need to be fed to the ECU, it actually does and allows decel / idle to behave better.

The pics we just added this weekend were from the tuning runs we were doing. I spent the money and bought the HPTuners adapter and software. Also rebuilt the intake tube per GM specs. We've got MAF tuning very close, and started on VVE / Speed Density tuning too ( lots of Youtubes ). We were out for about 3 hrs, did multiple runs/tunes and the engine is behaving very nicely. Still go to do more tuning, and especially idle tuning which is challenging due to the cam that is used in the engine.

Its still a beast but its so much fun driving that thing ( I got to drive 1 run when I wasn't driving the laptop ). At one point I glanced at the clock and it said we were doing over 93mph and I was sure the GPS calibration was wrong. Checked it on both our phones and yes we were going 93mph on a back road and I though it was 50 ish. It gets up there so easily.

More engine tuning to come and there's a boat load of tidy up tasks to do as well but so far no regrets at all with the LS engine choice.

thanks!
mark

[Alan_C]

https://www.motionraceworks.com/products/motion-raceworks-mono-cord-pro-steering-wheel-wiring-system

Very interested in this product and looking forward to you installing and using it. I plan to install a 10R80 into my coupe and I want operational paddle shifters.
I have seen this kit which looks like a decent quality solution for a good price.
https://www.seemslegitgarage.com/product-page/paddle-shifter-plate?utm_source=google&utm_medium=wix_google_feed&utm_campaign=freelistings
I would like to see the mono-cord steering wheel wiring system and these paddles working together.

I had been looking for a more conventional clock spring type adapter for the paddles, but nothing out there I have seen was designed for aftermarket columns like those from Ididit. The Factory Five column is simpler but has support for the same steering wheel I will put into my 70 Mustang restomod. Looks like I will have to buy these two kits and see if they will work with the FF column and then possibly the Ididit column.

[JimStone]

Jim

The car is a beast. We set out to build something different from the MK4 ( Gen2 Coyote ) and we've certainly reached that goal. Is the 630hp LS too much ? probably? If you control your right foot you'll be fine. It is loud, hot, loud, hot and loud but we expected that up front.

I wish I could comment more on the drivability but I've had limited seat time. I can't get my son out of the drivers seat. The car is half way through the California DMV saga but has a moving permit. We've taken it for brake and light inspection, then to the CHP for their inspection and vin assignment. Now just waiting on the smog gods to give their blessing then we should be good to get plates and be done with DMV.

The engine as received from Blueprint has a rough tune. When we took it to the CHP, the car was stalling on the drive back home. Mainly due to 1) the bad MAF intake tube I originally built ( too short and had a vacuum leak ) and 2) although Blueprint says the VSS signal from the transmission does not need to be fed to the ECU, it actually does and allows decel / idle to behave better.

The pics we just added this weekend were from the tuning runs we were doing. I spent the money and bought the HPTuners adapter and software. Also rebuilt the intake tube per GM specs. We've got MAF tuning very close, and started on VVE / Speed Density tuning too ( lots of Youtubes ). We were out for about 3 hrs, did multiple runs/tunes and the engine is behaving very nicely. Still go to do more tuning, and especially idle tuning which is challenging due to the cam that is used in the engine.

Its still a beast but its so much fun driving that thing ( I got to drive 1 run when I wasn't driving the laptop ). At one point I glanced at the clock and it said we were doing over 93mph and I was sure the GPS calibration was wrong. Checked it on both our phones and yes we were going 93mph on a back road and I though it was 50 ish. It gets up there so easily.

More engine tuning to come and there's a boat load of tidy up tasks to do as well but so far no regrets at all with the LS engine choice.

thanks!
mark




Mark,

Thanks for the response. Lots of good info there.

Happy to hear you and your son are enjoying the end product of your labors. It certainly looks and sounds like a beast. Whether it's 625 hp or 530, it'll be a handful and require a delicate right foot.

You do have me worried about all the tuning concerns. I'm a complete novice when it comes to that. I am planning on using Terminator X Max EFI/ECU which has self-learning capability, but I'm sure that opens a whole other set of potential problems and won't be just set-it-and-forget-it. I hate farming anything out, but I'll probably need profession help when it comes to that.

[lewma]

I'm a complete novice too when it comes to tuning but I'm reading a lot and taking it slow. Documenting each change then reverting the change if needed. There's a load of videos to watch where they explain it step by step. I can already see the improvement and the logs say I'm moving slowly in the right direction.

[Kbl7td]

Mark,

Thanks for the response. Lots of good info there.

Happy to hear you and your son are enjoying the end product of your labors. It certainly looks and sounds like a beast. Whether it's 625 hp or 530, it'll be a handful and require a delicate right foot.

You do have me worried about all the tuning concerns. I'm a complete novice when it comes to that. I am planning on using Terminator X Max EFI/ECU which has self-learning capability, but I'm sure that opens a whole other set of potential problems and won't be just set-it-and-forget-it. I hate farming anything out, but I'll probably need profession help when it comes to that.

Off topic here but the X is anything but self containing. It’ll get you started but it still needs fine tuning. When you’re at that point pay “projectgattago” Andrew, the $500 to tune it remotely. Additionally the X will give you waaayy more data points, additional sensors, two step, trans control, traction control etc. it’s a no brainer that you’ll be going with the right choice.

[JimStone]

Off topic here but the X is anything but self containing. It’ll get you started but it still needs fine tuning. When you’re at that point pay “projectgattago” Andrew, the $500 to tune it remotely. Additionally the X will give you waaayy more data points, additional sensors, two step, trans control, traction control etc. it’s a no brainer that you’ll be going with the right choice.

Thanks. $500 would be a bargain to get it tuned correctly

[Its Bruce]

I'm a complete novice too when it comes to tuning but I'm reading a lot and taking it slow. Documenting each change then reverting the change if needed. There's a load of videos to watch where they explain it step by step. I can already see the improvement and the logs say I'm moving slowly in the right direction.

Would you care to share a log and your tune file? I'm interested to see how comparable it is to my own LS427 tune.

[lewma]

Would you care to share a log and your tune file? I'm interested to see how comparable it is to my own LS427 tune.

Bruce

This is a work in progress. started on MAF tuning only at this point.

Please comment as I'm a complete novice at this point.

tune.hpt (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-xLQ2EfVpgI5T2VyUAco3QCeDRuXDBV8/view?usp=drive_link)
log.hpl (https://drive.google.com/file/d/10BuHbcPDnq24NB8xWatWzaJc_dykiI6t/view?usp=drive_link)


mark

[Its Bruce]

Bruce

This is a work in progress. started on MAF tuning only at this point.

Please comment as I'm a complete novice at this point.

tune.hpt (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-xLQ2EfVpgI5T2VyUAco3QCeDRuXDBV8/view?usp=drive_link)
log.hpl (https://drive.google.com/file/d/10BuHbcPDnq24NB8xWatWzaJc_dykiI6t/view?usp=drive_link)


mark

I had issues DL'ing the files so I commented on your HPTuners post.

[lewma]

Bruce, I saw you reply on hptuners. Thanks for doing that. Your tune looks very different to mine. Who did your tune ?

Also, what engine do you have? Is it the GM427LS package from Blueprint ?

thanks
mark

[Its Bruce]

Bruce, I saw you reply on hptuners. Thanks for doing that. Your tune looks very different to mine. Who did your tune ?

Also, what engine do you have? Is it the GM427LS package from Blueprint ?

thanks
mark

I'm doing my own tune (and it's still in process) but it's on top of the base tune sent from BP.

It's the BP 427LS, but I'll note that the first computer BP sent me was corrupt and didn't have the right tune file pre-flashed. Needless to say, between that and seeing your tune with the wrong injector data, I'm less than impressed with BP's handling of the ECM.

[lewma]

I'm doing my own tune (and it's still in process) but it's on top of the base tune sent from BP.

It's the BP 427LS, but I'll note that the first computer BP sent me was corrupt and didn't have the right tune file pre-flashed. Needless to say, between that and seeing your tune with the wrong injector data, I'm less than impressed with BP's handling of the ECM.
Bruce

Would you be willing to share the base tune you received from BP ? I'd like to compare that with the base I received from them. It's a little scary to me that they are way off for the same engine

thanks
mark

[nick729]

Would you mind sharing both of the tunes with me too? I have yet to start my BP LS427, but once i get around to it, few extra maps would really help to see if there are any irregularities or problems.

@lewma - What air filter did you use for your car? Is the intake pipe custom made, what size is it? I have ordered the LS intake kit from BP, but on my first mock up when i had the engine in the car, it wouldn't fit. The filter itself is massive and it won't fit due to the battery getting in the way.

[lewma]

@lewma - What air filter did you use for your car? Is the intake pipe custom made, what size is it? I have ordered the LS intake kit from BP, but on my first mock up when i had the engine in the car, it wouldn't fit. The filter itself is massive and it won't fit due to the battery getting in the way.

Nick. The intake you see in my pics did not work. The MAF sensor was too close to a bend and was causing all kinds of issues. The intake I have in there now is made from 4" intake tubes cut down to size so it will fit in the chassis. I have it pointing down towards the power steering rack and it just fits. The most important part is to get at least 6" of straight tube for the MAF sensor and make sure the sensor is at least 3" from the filter.

[lewma]

Would you mind sharing both of the tunes with me too? I have yet to start my BP LS427, but once i get around to it, few extra maps would really help to see if there are any irregularities or problems.

Nick. I'm trying to get some support out of Blueprint Engines on this. Both myself and Bruce seem to have received ECUs with wrong data flashed into them. Bruce has already highlighted some inconsistencies and I'm trying to get information out of Blueprint too. Once we get this fixed up I'll definitely share what I have.

[LateApex]

Painter is done, hopefully bringing her home tomorrow if not raining
194886

Very nice!!

[LateApex]

EFI tuning can be a bit of a challenge in my experience, and easily confounded by "the build".

I bought a 347 c.i. SBF for my coupe from BP, with Sniper. At some point I decided to install one of Jim Inglese's Weber-style EFI 8-stacks, complete with Holley TerminatorX, Holley Dual-sync Distributor, MSD ignition, ..., etc. That was a steep learning curve, in part because of part shortages during Covid, and having to modify a TermX targeting a Fox-body Mustang to work with a different set of sensors (e.g.: IAC) that my eight-stack was rigged with. Let's say, I have learned a lot about tuning the Holley system.

Spend a bit of time digging in to the EFI tuning. It will pay long-term benefits. And dig into the BP engines stuff a bit too. For example, the distributors that are part of their turn-key engines, are their own knock-off of a Holley distributor. The springs and advance curves and all those bits are a bit unique.

I had problems with leaky FFR ball flange header couplers causing a false lean signal to the closed-loop Holley EFI system. I have ditched the FFR header / side-pipe exhaust and have moved to GasN. It has been a learning path I did not anticipate, but I have learned a lot about EFI as a benefit.

I look forward to hearing your report out on how your beasty breaks in :-)

Great thread!

[Its Bruce]

Would you mind sharing both of the tunes with me too? I have yet to start my BP LS427, but once i get around to it, few extra maps would really help to see if there are any irregularities or problems.

@lewma - What air filter did you use for your car? Is the intake pipe custom made, what size is it? I have ordered the LS intake kit from BP, but on my first mock up when i had the engine in the car, it wouldn't fit. The filter itself is massive and it won't fit due to the battery getting in the way.

https://forum.hptuners.com/showthread.php?110156-LS376-480-E67-ECU-Tune&p=786357#post786357

[Its Bruce]

Nick. I'm trying to get some support out of Blueprint Engines on this. Both myself and Bruce seem to have received ECUs with wrong data flashed into them. Bruce has already highlighted some inconsistencies and I'm trying to get information out of Blueprint too. Once we get this fixed up I'll definitely share what I have.

Any update?

[lewma]

I spoke to Blueprint and they sent me their latest tune. The tune was very similar to the original tune that I pulled from the engine. The injector table data still does not indicate 42lb injectors and their response was that they knew the data was incorrect but they compensated for the lower injector data numbers with other tables in the tune. I've been out of town since receiving that information and I plan on loading up both tunes and seeing where the difference is.

[lewma]

On another topic, received my SB100 sequence number the other day. If they are issued in order, i received #72 out of 500 in July so plenty of numbers left each year. Got my virtual smog referee appointment next tuesday then just need to schedule the in-person visit then hopefully done with registration!

[Its Bruce]

I spoke to Blueprint and they sent me their latest tune. The tune was very similar to the original tune that I pulled from the engine. The injector table data still does not indicate 42lb injectors and their response was that they knew the data was incorrect but they compensated for the lower injector data numbers with other tables in the tune. I've been out of town since receiving that information and I plan on loading up both tunes and seeing where the difference is.

That is certainly not a best practice, but I suppose if you never expect to change the injectors to a different type/flow then it'll never be an issue.

[lewma]

That is certainly not a best practice, but I suppose if you never expect to change the injectors to a different type/flow then it'll never be an issue.

I agree. I'm planning on unwinding it all but need to read more first about the tuning process before I start on that effort. I bought the Greg Banish engine tuning book here (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1932494421/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) and i'm also making my way through a GM LS Gen4 engine tuning online course with Evans Performance.

[Alan_C]

Got my virtual smog referee appointment next tuesday then just need to schedule the in-person visit then hopefully done with registration!
Virtual, damn that sound way too easy. Good luck, hope the smog check goes well.

[lewma]

Virtual, damn that sound way too easy. Good luck, hope the smog check goes well.

This is virtual to make sure all the commifonia rules and regs have been satisfied before we get the honor of visiting a real smog ref in person :)

[lewma]

Well, the 'virtual smog referee' appointment is not going too well right now. A couple of years ago this was easy ( with the Coyote ). Single smog ref appt. He reviewed the paperwork, examined my PCV then I was done. No issues.

Now, with the LS3 based engine and a virtual appointment by an assistant to check over my paperwork, that assistant is bent out of shape with the PCV hookup that I have. According to him, I should have a hose running from my rear driver side valve cover to the clean air supply. That goes against GM and BluePrint that both say leave the rear side capped off then run a hose from the front passenger side valve cover to the clean air supply.

Anyone with an LS3 tangled with the CA smog referee lately ? Any words of wisdom to get passed this ?

thanks!
mark

[Its Bruce]

Move out of Cali.

[lewma]

Move out of Cali.

thanks

[Its Bruce]

I'm from Cali, so I have immunity.

But seriously, either show them the GMPP instructions to defend your position or route it like they want and change it back after inspection. It's not going to hurt anything temporarily.

[lewma]

Bruce, you got room at your place ? I'm packing up now

I have immunity too. I lived in Houston 93-96

[lewma]

Communicated with the smog referee one level higher than the guy on the phone. Seemingly we're good to go when it comes to PCV.

[Its Bruce]

Bruce, you got room at your place ? I'm packing up now

I have immunity too. I lived in Houston 93-96

Lol. Glad you got it sorted.

[JimStone]

Hey Lewma,

Was wondering your thoughts on the stock FFR side pipes with the LS427. From your Google album vids, it sounds pretty awesome. In person, does it sound pleasant? Would you consider going with Gas'N? Obviously it's loud, but that's expected.

Whenever Gas'N goes on sale I think about getting their pipes, but if the stock are okay I'd rather save the $.

Thanks

[lewma]

Hey Lewma,

Was wondering your thoughts on the stock FFR side pipes with the LS427. From your Google album vids, it sounds pretty awesome. In person, does it sound pleasant? Would you consider going with Gas'N? Obviously it's loud, but that's expected.

Whenever Gas'N goes on sale I think about getting their pipes, but if the stock are okay I'd rather save the $.

Thanks

Jim

The stock pipes are loud but I have never heard any other type of pipe on a coupe so I have nothing to compare them to. Many people talk about the GasN pipes, I've never seen or heard them personally.

I just got the car legal in CA today, drove it to the smog inspector then back home again. About 1hr round trip. I bought ear plugs and I'm glad I wore them today. My ears are not ringing like they were over this past weekend when I was doing some test runs.

So overall it's loud but we all know that going into this. Its still a very fun car to drive!

mark

[Kbl7td]

Had my first start today with the Gen V. I gotta say, I’m underwhelmed. It’s amazing what an x-pipe and both exhausts pointing towards you does for sound, say on a corvette. I’m sure I’ll find it load while driving, but truthfully the tone is awful.

[JimStone]

Thanks guys. I've never heard a coupe run in general, much less with an LS. Know anyone with an LS coupe with the Gas'N's?

[lewma]

Thinking more on this, I'm wondering what the overall effect would be with different pipes. Yes the pipes are loud but there is also a lot of internal noise from the engine in the cabin bouncing around.

[JimStone]

Your Google pictures album continues to give me a lot of direction for my build, so thank you for that.


Do you happen to have the part number to the springs you used on the e-brake cables?

Thanks!

[lewma]

Jim. I went to home depot and bought a bag of mixed springs then picked a couple that would work. I had to cut them so I could still get enough pressure on the parking brake

Glad you find the pics useful!

Mark

[JimStone]

The pics and videos from the Open Road Challenge looked awesome! Cool to see 3 Coupes together

Question: could you guestimate how much clearance room there is above the LS intake manifold to the hood? I'm thinking of using a different intake that is a little bit taller.

Thank you!

[lewma]

Jim. About 3-4 inches from what I can tell

Thanks
Mark

[JimStone]

Question for you Mark,

Do you happen to recall what your drivetrain angles were? And if you needed to adjust anything to get the crankshaft and pinion angles parallel? Like transmission mount shims, etc

My IRS diff/pinion is pointing downward 0.5 degrees (I guess this isn't common), while the crank/trans shaft is also pointed down (but in opposite direction, obviously) so I'm nowhere close to being parallel. If I add shims to the trans mount then my driveshaft angles gets crazy large since the trans is already higher than the diff.

Thought I'd ask since you have the same package as me. No worries if you don't recall.

[lewma]

Hello Jim

Sorry but I can't recall that at all. I'll be under the car in the next couple of weeks to disconnect the driveshaft so I can drop the trans a little to work on adding a shifter boot. ( to stop the T-56 leaking through the shifter ). I'll take a look at the angles then, and probably check them too ;)

mark

[JimStone]

Thanks Mark!

When you have a chance, please do tell about this T56 leaking situation

[lewma]

Thanks Mark!

When you have a chance, please do tell about this T56 leaking situation

Jim, just google T-56 shifter leak. It's all over the web. ( and oil is all over my transmission mount )

I'm going to give this product a try from TickPerformance.com

https://www.tickperformance.com/6-bolt-magnum-shifter-shroud-kit/?srsltid=AfmBOoo1WUvytQDA5aJHJ_4bIqM3WM-JCfUbDdAsJhxlyPnUTxYOeaEh

[lewma]

Here's a video. No idea if it actually works or not yet https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBRGixXDn3w

[JimStone]

I wasn't aware of this leak issue, so thanks for allerting me to it. I went ahead and got the Tick Performance shroud. Way easier to do that now than later

Thanks again

[burchfieldb]

Question for you Mark,

Do you happen to recall what your drivetrain angles were? And if you needed to adjust anything to get the crankshaft and pinion angles parallel? Like transmission mount shims, etc

My IRS diff/pinion is pointing downward 0.5 degrees (I guess this isn't common), while the crank/trans shaft is also pointed down (but in opposite direction, obviously) so I'm nowhere close to being parallel. If I add shims to the trans mount then my driveshaft angles gets crazy large since the trans is already higher than the diff.

Thought I'd ask since you have the same package as me. No worries if you don't recall.

Jim, I had the same issue on mine. I ended up molding custom bushings for mine. Now it points up at 0.5 degs from the ground. If you are interested I can see what it would take to make another set. I had some help from the shop at the office.
219330

[JimStone]

Jim, I had the same issue on mine. I ended up molding custom bushings for mine. Now it points up at 0.5 degs from the ground. If you are interested I can see what it would take to make another set. I had some help from the shop at the office.
219330

I appreciate it Brent, but I've decided to just run with what I've got.

I REALLY don't want to take the diff out, haha

[burchfieldb]

I appreciate it Brent, but I've decided to just run with what I've got.

I REALLY don't want to take the diff out, haha

I feel your pain on that one. I think mine was in and out 5 times. None were easy.

[Skuzzy]

Thanks Mark!

When you have a chance, please do tell about this T56 leaking situation

It is a common issue with the T56. There is a rubber seal under the shift plate. It is easily damaged which allows fluid to come up the shifter shaft around the shifter ball. Aftermarket shifters are more prone to the problem due to the tolerances being a bit different than the Tremec supplied shifter.

As a rule, I always pull the shifter cover to check the seal before installing the transmission.

[JimStone]

Well, you guys sent me down the Internet rabbit hole with this T56 shifter leak stuff.

It's a real shame this hasn't been fixed by Tremec.

I'll be checking the seal when I pull the shifter to install the Tick Performance shroud, but it has me wondering if I should prophylactically replace the shifter altogether

The Bowler "Nightstick" gets rid of the rubber seal and uses a press fit ball-in-cup type seal

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=219347&d=1758812580

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=219346&d=1758812580

Of course it's $473

Hate to spend that kind of money, but I also don't want to deal with what Mark is dealing with

[lewma]

I'm going to try the $50 fix first.



Jim, did I mention your CV boots are going to leak too ?? :)

[JimStone]

Jim, did I mention your CV boots are going to leak too ?? :)


Welp... sh*t

[Skuzzy]

I'm going to try the $50 fix first.



Jim, did I mention your CV boots are going to leak too ?? :)

And they are a pain in the butt to replace. And they do not last that long. Someone could get rich if they could come up with a design which would last 100,000 miles without leaking/tearing. :)

[burchfieldb]

Where do the boots start leaking and failing?

[Skuzzy]

Where do the boots start leaking and failing?

More often than not it is due to too much grease in the boot expanding and promoting tearing/rupturing of the boot. Next up would be damage from exterior forces (rocks, road debris, and so on). Then we have general wear from high temperatures and the oils and salts from the roads causing the rubber to dry and crack.

I have tried to come up with a hard design, but am not happy with any of them, yet. The best I have, so far, is just a protective shell.

[JimStone]

Hey Mark,

Any luck getting the Tick Performance shroud in without removing the transmission?

[lewma]

Hey Mark,

Any luck getting the Tick Performance shroud in without removing the transmission?

Hello Jim. Didn't even attempt it yet. Saving it for the next time I have to disconnect the driveshaft. There's no way I can get that shifter plate off the transmission without lowering it a little.

mark

[tbuerk]

All

Should have done this a long time ago.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/3ZyXcduhUmDeDQZD8

That's my ongoing pic album that is documenting my build. No words, just pics. Hopefully the pics can provide help to other builders.

-Gen3 Coupe
-Blueprint GM427LS + T56
-IRS, AC, Power Steering


mark Curios what Drive by wire gas pedal you are using and did it mount in the existing bracket on the frame? thanks Tim

[lewma]

I used the gas pedal that came with the BluePrint GM427LS package. The mounting plate and pedal did need some trimming to get it to fit correctly. There should be pics in the link in my signature that show what I did.

[JimStone]

The Holley DBW works well too. I only had to trim a small part so it didn't bind with the steering shaft. It's less bulky so it fits down in better than the GM pedal, in my opinion. I ended up returning the GM pedal that I had bought first

[tbuerk]

thanks Mark. My kit did not come with the pedal. I'll have to see what they have. I bought a GM pedal from Summit, but will need lots of work to make it fit.

[tbuerk]

thanks Jim - do you have a pic to see what you did?

[JimStone]

thanks Jim - do you have a pic to see what you did?

Here's a few pics:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228610&d=1777347329


https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228612&d=1777347344


https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228611&d=1777347344


I think only 2 or 3 of the button head screws actually go thru the pedal bracket. The others are just there to fill holes and make it look nice


Honesty, it's like a the Holley pedal is made for this car



I swapped the actual pedal to a Breeze one that mimics the Wilwood brake and clutch pedals that come with the complete kit. I posted about it in post 79 of my build thread

[tbuerk]

Thanks Jim - appreciate the pics. I am building a MK4 and the pedal bracket looks a little different, but this gives me a good idea of what to do next. I may have to go the breeze route as well. That looks great.