LS7 Engine install - way forward??

[LS7TANGO]

Right guys need some advice on best ways to tackle the engine install...engine arrives Tuesday and I want to really crack on with the build as quickly as I can. Understand that I may need to do couple of test install on the engine to get routings etc nailed but wondering which is the best way to go. Couple of options as I see it:

1. Factory route - leave engine till last...concentrate on taking bodywork back-off - complete interior etc etc - final fit sides/centre...
2. Leave pre-fit side/centre in-situ and 'test' install engine.....check routings, pull engine, go to option 1....

Hope I'm making sense...really grateful to get any tips, words of advice from those that have scraped dem knukles already!

Thanks, Simon

[Steve_D]

Two choices.
Cover the engine up and forget about it.
Polish it and stand it in the middle of the lounge.

Either way you have much work to do before you go anywhere near putting it in.

Some reasons.
There are lots of jobs that are not in themselves terribly exiting so you need to get them out of the way and finished.
Much of the work in the engine bay will consist of mounting pumps, pipes wiring etc. most of which lives on the engine bulkhead which can't be done until you have completed the final body fit.
If you fit the engine you will think you have nearly finished which may be far from the truth.

I know you want to see it in there but now is not the time.

Steve

[LS7TANGO]

Hi Steve,

Understand the work on the rear bulkhead...with the LS7 install a lot is on the lower section.....as per option 2 that I identified realised I would have to pull the engine out again just wondering whether there was any benefit in having a quick go at the install so I can visulise some of the critical routings, check for clearance issues etc....probably not worth the hassle as you say but it was just a thought....

Thanks for the feedback...

Regards, Simon

[ROWDYRENAULT]

LS7 I certainly agree with the other fellow, you are a long way from being done. With that said lowering the motor into place and taking every possible digital picture you can think of with a measuring device in the picture will come in handy later. Yes several things have to go up on the center body work. But the hood release cable. cross over tube between the tanks and the fuel feed supply from the far tank to the pumbs can all be mounted on the lower part of the bulk head. Take some time with this part of your build. The better the pre-plan the more finished your car will be good luck. Also don't get wrapped around the handel about when your going to get finished I think most of the guys that have built the car have had a great time doing it. LEE

[crafty]

I put my engine in early...... worked out where everything should go, then pulled it out again.

If you put the engine in without the trans, its a 5 minute job to get it out again anyway... with the LS the trans adaptor plate sits nicely on the chassis cross member so its easy to put in without the trans.

Its easier to sort the plumbing and wiring with the engine in.