Unleashing Your 1969 Camaro's Full Potential:
​An In-Depth Guide to a LS Engine Swap with Summit Racing Parts

The 1969 Camaro is a timeless classic that has been loved by car enthusiasts for over five decades. As with any classic car, owners are always looking for ways to improve its performance and overall driving experience. One popular upgrade for the 1969 Camaro is an GM LS engine swap, which is known for its impressive power and reliability. 

At thethinker.com, we understand that swapping engines is a big project and requires a solid plan. That's why we've undertaken our own LS swap project for a 1969 Camaro. By going through the process ourselves, we'll be able to provide a comprehensive list of parts and tools required, and show the nuts and bolts of installing the engine and get it running. This way, we can help you make informed decisions whether you do the swap yourself or have it done at a shop. 

In this article, we will explore the benefits of an LS swap and an overview of the parts required with help from Summit Racing Equipment.

Benefits of an LS Swap

First introduced in the 1997 Chevrolet Corvette, GM’s LS engine is a popular choice for swaps in older vehicles due to its high power output, lightweight design, and reliability. In addition to increased power, the LS engine is also known for its efficiency. With advanced features such as electronic fuel injection and cylinder deactivation on later engines, the LS can achieve better fuel economy while still delivering impressive performance. Furthermore, the LS is designed to meet modern emissions standards, making it a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option.

General Motors built an entire family of LS engines. The Gen III series was produced from 1996 through 2007 in displacements ranging from 4.8 to 6 liters. The Gen IV series began 2005 and eventually replaced the Gen III engines. Summit Racing has an LS engine guide that covers everything from engine codes and specifications to upgrades that will further improve performance. 

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Choosing The Best Parts

When it comes to performing an LS engine swap, it is important to choose high-quality parts from a reputable supplier. Summit Racing is a well-respected supplier of automotive performance parts and offers everything from complete engines to swap components to fit an LS in a 1969 Camaro as well as other classic muscle cars and trucks. 
Here are some things to consider before you begin a swap. This is not an exhaustive list, but does cover the major components involved. It is important to note that the exact parts needed may vary depending on the specific LS engine and transmission chosen, as well as the individual needs of the build. It is recommended to consult with a trusted parts supplier such as Summit Racing for guidance on selecting the correct parts for your LS swap.

1. Engine: The first big decision is choosing the engine. You can upgrade or rebuild a used engine or go with a ‘crate engine’ that comes as a complete assembly, ready to install. Summit Racing offers a range of LS crate engines with different power outputs to suit your needs. If you want to build your own LS engine from the block up or upgrade an existing engine, Summit Racing has the parts you need to do that too. 
2. Engine Mounts: You will need engine mounts designed to fit an LS engine in a 1969 Camaro. 
3. Fuel System: The LS engine requires a high-pressure fuel system designed for electronic fuel injection. Summit Racing offers fuel system components including fuel tanks, electric fuel pumps, fuel lines and fittings, and fuel filters designed for LS engine swaps in classic cars like the 1969 Camaro.
4. Intake/Fuel Injection System: if you are not using a crate engine that comes with an intake/fuel injection system, you will have to choose one, You can adapt a factory GM system and its associated engine controller and wiring harness, but it’s a lot of work. A better choice is an aftermarket system that comes complete with engine controller, wiring harness, sensors, and other components designed to work together. It will save you a lot of time and frustration.
5. Transmission: LS engines have a bellhousing bolt pattern that is virtually the same as the Gen I small or big block Chevy V8 that most 1969 Camaros came with. You can use an automatic or manual transmission that was stock for a 1969 Camaro or you can upgrade to a modern overdrive transmission. You might need additional components to properly mate the engine and transmission.
6. Cooling System: LS engines have a different radiator hose routing than the engines that were factory-installed in the 1969 Camaro. That requires a radiator designed for LS swaps. 
7. Accessory Drive System: LS engines use a serpentine belt drive system for the water pump, alternator, power steering, and air conditioning compressor. You can piece together a system using factory GM parts or get a complete aftermarket system.
8. Exhaust System: You will need LS-specific exhaust manifolds or headers. Most exhaust systems made for 1969 Camaros will work, or you can build a custom exhaust system.

Full List of products needed

1. LS1 engine
2. Engine wiring harness
3. Engine control module (ECM)
4. Engine mounts
5. Transmission adapter plate (if using original transmission)
6. Fuel pump and fuel lines
7. Fuel tank
8. Exhaust manifolds or headers
9. Radiator and cooling system
10. Transmission (if not using original transmission)
11. Driveshaft
12. Clutch kit or torque converter
13. Crossmember
14. Electrical connectors and wiring
15. Air intake system
16. Throttle cable or electronic throttle controller
17. Power steering pump and lines (if applicable)
18. AC compressor and lines (if applicable)

It is important to note that the exact parts needed may vary depending on the specific LS1 engine and transmission chosen, as well as the individual needs of the build. It is recommended to consult with a trusted parts supplier, such as Summit Racing, for guidance on selecting the correct parts for your LS1 swap.

Installing the LS1 Engine

Now that you have chosen your Summit Racing parts, it's time to start the installation process. Here is a step-by-step guide to installing the LS1 engine in a 1969 Camaro:

1. Remove the original engine: Before you can install the LS1 engine, you will need to remove the original engine from the Camaro. This will involve disconnecting the wiring, removing the exhaust system, and disconnecting the engine from the transmission.
2. Install the engine mounts: Once the original engine has been removed, you can begin installing the custom engine mounts. Follow the instructions provided with the engine mount kit to ensure that the mounts are installed correctly and securely.

1. Install the LS1 engine: With the engine mounts in place, you can now install the LS1 engine. This can be a two-person job, as the engine is heavy and can be difficult to maneuver into place. Make sure that the engine is properly aligned with the transmission before securing it in place.
2. Connect the wiring: With the engine in place, you can begin connecting the wiring. This will involve connecting the engine harness to the Camaro's wiring harness, as well as installing any necessary sensors and relays.
3. Install the transmission: Once the engine is in place and the wiring is connected, you can install the transmission. Follow the instructions provided with the transmission to ensure that it is installed correctly and securely.
4. Install the fuel system: With the engine and transmission in place, you can now install the fuel system. This will involve installing the fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel filter. Follow the instructions provided with your Summit Racing fuel system components to ensure that they are installed correctly and securely.
5. Install the exhaust system: Finally, you can install the custom exhaust system. This will involve installing the headers, exhaust pipes, and mufflers. Follow the instructions provided with your Summit Racing exhaust components to ensure that they are installed correctly and securely.

Final Thoughts

An LS1 engine swap is a popular upgrade for the 1969 Camaro, as it can significantly increase the car's power and reliability. By using high-quality Summit Racing parts, you can ensure that your LS1 swap is a success. Whether you are looking to improve your car's performance on the street or the track, an LS1 engine swap is a great way to achieve your goals. With proper installation and maintenance, your LS1-powered 1969 Camaro will provide years of driving enjoyment.

At thethinker.com, we understand that swapping engines requires patience and an understanding that the process may reveal the need for additional parts beyond what you initially anticipated. That's why we've undertaken our own LS1 swap project for a 1969 Camaro. By going through the process ourselves, we'll be able to provide a comprehensive list of parts and fittings, highlighting both the successes and challenges of building your dream car. This way, we can help our readers make informed decisions when embarking on their own engine swap projects, ultimately saving them time, money, and frustration.

Full project and build story and video coming at the end of 2023! ​