Can't decide

[zr2luv]

I initially thought about putting 350 ramjet into 94 sonoma zr2 truck but a mechanic I talked to suggested LS1 engine instead. So I will ask all of you which might be better.
The nice thing with ramjet is that it comes with harness and ecu, which might be easier to install, connects to 4L60E (that I plan to use). However the engine is taller could cause some hood clearance issues. It also has more horsepower and torque than the LS1. Price wise it is cheaper but not by much and easier to order.
I have read that LS1 engine also comes with harness and ecu, but the part number is discontinued but is still available at some dealership, I wonder about the availability. The bock is aluminum 6 bolt main should weigh less than ramjet, that would be plus for an already nose heavy truck. From the pictures I seen it looks like hood clearance is not an issue as the engine is about the same height as the 4.3 vortec that I am replacing.
Also should add I want to stay with fuelly engine, no exceptions.

So... here's the questions, Ramjet or LS1, will the LS1 bolt the 4L60E, if there is no engine available with harness/ecu where can I get harness and ecu, will my accessories fit the LS1 or Ramjet??? Another question, can I use the original dash cluster - tach, oil press. gauge, water temp gauge or will I need to modify or place those as well?

Looking forward to reading your posts.

[94BlazerV8]

Hey Z, either way sounds like a nice plan.
Here are my thoughts:
1. with the ram jet what makes it taller, could this be fixed with the addition of a scoop and some hood cutting (or new hood).
2. the LS1 should bolt up to the 4L60E at least I hope so because that is what I am wanting for my 94.
3. a harness and ecu can be found at a salvage yard or any place specializing in Corvettes.

Do you have a V8 swap kit? I got mine from S10V8.com and it came with rad, oil pan, mounts, headers, and the manual (not a how to, but informative).

I don't know if any of this will help as I am new to the engine swap/S10 world myself. If I do find out any more info I will be sure to let ya' know.

Good luck!

[1993blazerlt]

go with the ls serries engine, there is far more ponential with them, you might want to look into a 6.0, they can be had a little cheaper then a LS1 some times and are more powerful stock. Plus the gen 3 computers are already set up to run the 4l60e where as the ram jet you are going to have to run both the computer to keep the tranny controls

[Maxx]

Look on ebay... can get a full package from wrecked vehicles. Engine, tranny, all accessories, computer(with wiring harness) and maf.

[j894]

i'd go with Ls1 also

[zr2luv]

Hey Z, either way sounds like a nice plan.
Here are my thoughts:
1. with the ram jet what makes it taller, could this be fixed with the addition of a scoop and some hood cutting (or new hood).
2. the LS1 should bolt up to the 4L60E at least I hope so because that is what I am wanting for my 94.
3. a harness and ecu can be found at a salvage yard or any place specializing in Corvettes.

Do you have a V8 swap kit? I got mine from S10V8.com and it came with rad, oil pan, mounts, headers, and the manual (not a how to, but informative).

I don't know if any of this will help as I am new to the engine swap/S10 world myself. If I do find out any more info I will be sure to let ya' know.
Good luck!


Hey GMC KID, thanks for your post.
I thought about 1" body lift would raise hood then cut hood for working hood scoop.

[zr2luv]

1993blazerltgo with the ls serries engine, there is far more ponential with them, you might want to look into a 6.0, they can be had a little cheaper then a LS1 some times and are more powerful stock. Plus the gen 3 computers are already set up to run the 4l60e where as the ram jet you are going to have to run both the computer to keep the tranny controls

Thanks for your post, I will look into it. You are talking about the LQ9 engine?
Do you think it will fit (is it larger than the 350), what about weight is it much heavier than the 4.3 I am replacing?

[1993blazerlt]

the gen 3 motors are around the same size as the gen 1 small blocks, they have the same bellhousing bolt pattern, the motor mouts were move a little but there are plenty of adapters availble.

[zr2luv]

Thanks 1993blazerIt. Guess I'll have to do more internet research.

[nomaboy]

-the 350 ram jet puts out more power
-will bolt up to stock transmission and engine mounts
-less electronics to hook up

IMO i would do this. a lot easier and more power