Topic: **Your thoughts on the LT1 Engine**

['78 LadyBird]

What are your thoughts on that motor?

THANKS everyone!

[eroc022]

its junk, compared to the ls1 motor....

[72blackbird]

The LT1 is what GM built to take the traditional SBC to the next level- certain features, like the Optispark underneath the water pump, were a really bad idea. The LT1's sensor pack is also a source of problems for those stuck with that motor (like 93-97 V-8 Firebird and TA owners). GM clearly learned enough from the mistakes of the LT1 and started w/ a clean sheet of paper w/ the LS1. I definitely wouldn't consider replacing the reliable and powerful classic Pontiac V-8 with the problematic LT1.

Geno

[turbota400]

I agree with Geno.

[LOMILETA]

Aside from the obvious electronic problem ( Opti- Spark ), they are a decent motor. They make alot of torque, but not much power. My 00 Grand Am GT whooped my 95 Formula. Definitly wouldnt give up the 400 for it though.

['78 LadyBird]

Oh No no no, I'm not looking to swap out my 400 on my '78.  My '78 is staying the way it is.   Except for putting the carb and shaker back to the way it was.

Looking to buy another TA, but getting mixed reviews on the LT1.

Some say it is a good motor while other's say it is a piece of crap.

Now, keep in mind that this motor will not be used as a daily driver, but I wanted to know what type of problems are "common" with this motor.  
And are parts a concern to get a hold of?

[eroc022]

parts are still easy to come by, but from some friends that had LT1 cars, if one part goes, expect a few others to go all at the same time from a domino effect.... most people are going to say junk since the LS engine has come out, but there are a few die hards that really really like the LT motors....and again, the motor is a torque monster, but no horsepower, I would rather wait and find a later 98-02 car, they look better, and much much much faster, and now a way bigger aftermarket following on it....