I am looking in to purchasing an 05 gto and had a question about engine mods. I would like to squeeze in an ls7 motor when the crate engines become available. As soon as I get the gto I would like to get an exhaust system with a LOT more sound, but I'm not sure if the headers for an ls2 will match up to the ls7. Im not sure if the exhaust runners will be in the same position. Anybody have a clue? Also, does anyone know if the ls7 will have a raised deck height? If the exhaust setup will be different, I'll just wait for the ls7.

Thanks in advance

Howie has a 7.5 lt in his GTO

and the LS7 is only 7 lt so it should fit

but i think all a LS7 is, is a LS2 with a lot of mods so exhaust should fit

IMO I think it would be cheaper to leave the LS2 in it and add a supercharger, it would be a lot less work too

and if you are only just looking for 500 hp you could get a 04 GTO and supercharge it, a 04 is only like 26000 now and the 05 is over 33000

Well considering the LS7 is hand built, it is unlikely you will see a crate engine version for very cheap. In which case it would most likely be cheaper to build yourself a larger engine based on the LS2 from Arrowhead performance or a reputable engine shop.

My goal was to obtain a low compression LS7 long block and install a twin-screw driven supercharger.

Well considering the LS7 is hand built....

Very true, that is going to limit crate engine possibilities. I wanted the LS7 for the new modifications such as an internal dry sump oiling system. Arent the oil galleys and crankshaft different to accomodate this? I'll have to check into the available specs on this. Since the LS7 is based off race block concepts I was curious as to whether the deck height was higher to allow for the higher rpms. This would change the height of the exhaust runners and require exhaust modification.

I think I'll just get the exhaust system and hope that it will mate up with the LS7. If I cant get the LS7, then I wont be out anything. The thought of a naturally aspirated 500hp small block was just really appealling, and supercharging even better :woot: But of course that means a ton of money later to keep the power train from exploding. Oh well, better to plan ahead than be stuck in the middle of a project without cash.

If you're putting a new engine in, you might as well just buy an 04 either new or with some miles. The money and time you save you can put a new hood, rear end etc.

You know, with all that hp you will have to upgrade driveshaft and all that other stuff.

At least thats what they tell me. :unsure:

Best bet would be a solid deck sleeved LS6 block, it will be stronger than the LS7 and less expensive in the long run. Since you plan on running forced induction, you can install forged internals that will be better suited to your application and optimize your head design for the amount of boost you plan on running. It would also be a better idea to start with an '04, the software you'll need to tune the '05 for the new engine is not available yet. The newer style PCM is based on the CAN bus achitecture which hasn't been fully "unlocked" by the aftermarket yet. The '04 uses the older style bus which is easily programmed, or you can go with a standalone system such as the FAST or Accel DFI if you are going for a truly serious setup.