The Incredible GM Corvette LT-1 Engine of the 90's

[@Floridalifeinspringhill]

Good Job! Bought 1992 c4 a month ago . The first things I did optispark , water pump , plugs and wires . Very impressed with the C4 Corvette .

[@VetteSource]

Yep, like another poster mentioned. Easy to work on if you know what you're doing👍. Have a great Thanksgiving!

[@C4VETTELT1]

I have a 92 as well and I absolutely love it!! If you know what your doing the optispark is actually pretty easy job, I had to do the optispark twice only because I messed up. When I put the optispark in the seal also push in and the seal got boogerd up and the opti filled up with oil in about 3 months and had to do it again, but I made absolutely sure the seal was in place and couldn't move and it's been running like a top ever since I also did plugs and wires. I used MSD super conductors and E3 spark plugs with a streetfire MSD coil.

[@VetteSource]

Great testimonial👍. It's the real-world examples from owners like you help people out when trying to decide whether or not to buy one.

[@VetteSource]

Great testimonial👍. It's the real-world examples from owners like you help people out when trying to decide whether or not to buy one.

[@KurtMyers-kt4fo]

Where did you get opti spark? I need one for my 92 corvette with lt1. Thanks

[@frankpavan7865]

Thank you for the info. I have the same LT1 engine in my 96' corvette. I love it. Very responsive to any input. The more you press hard on the accelerator the more it has to give ! Great motor !

[@VetteSource]

Frank, no problem. Glad you enjoyed it. LT1's are definitely one of the great engines of the 90's👍.

[@mikejohns3104]

This is due to the flat torque curve and undersized throttle body from the factory. That is how GM designed it, for "User experience".

[@VetteSource]

Exactly👍

[@288gto7]

Dont all 96 models have the lt4

[@keepamerica2astrong280]

@@288gto7 No, they came with either an LT1 or an LT4. I have a 96 LT1 Auto. All the 96s with the LT4 have 4 speeds

[@neal6473]

Remember people the LT1 was one of the powerful small block engines that ever came out.

[@jasonkepic1132]

"most". I believe you meant and I agree 👍

[@luchob795]

Lt4 and Lt5

[@pgfault]

@@luchob795 LT4 with heads and cam can be very potent.

[@cheezyrider1111]

I have a 96 black on black. Love the late c4’s. The lt1 is such a good looking engine too

[@VetteSource]

Yep, they are great cars and built like a tank. The LT's are probably the last engine that I find visually appealing. I love the power of the LS series engines, but they look pretty boring in comparison to the earlier fuel injection systems.

[@cheezyrider1111]

I agree, the l98 is also very appealing to the eyes. The intake runners make it look like no other engine of its time

[@VetteSource]

Definitely. There is still quite a bit of underground popularity with the Tuned Port Injection systems.

[@cheezyrider1111]

Hey man what’s the electrical piece above the drivers side valve cover on the firewall?

[@VetteSource]

Are you referring to the relays close to the wiper motor?

[@grantman64]

Recently bought a 96 Pontiac Comp T/A (#120 of 164 made from 1995-7). It's a special edition tie-in with BFGoodrich and is basically the SLP Firehawk package with all the goodies (ram air, SLP throttle body, bigger exhaust, suspension upgrades, 3.23 rear gears, torsen diff, all the Trans Am body kit and interior options, and Comp T/A graphics and accessories). In this trim, the LT1 was rated at 305/315 hp (depending on which source you look at). Because Comp T/A's are extremely rare (mine is literally 1 of 2 registered in my state), and the one I got has only ~31k miles, and I got a good deal, I accepted that it had the automatic vs. stick. Let me tell you, the LT1 is a gem! When you're just puttering around, it's well-mannered and docile. On the highway and want to pass a truck - just push your toe down and roll on past, trans doesn't need to downshift. On a two-lane and need to get around a slow car quickly - give it enough throttle to get a kickdown and away you go. Want to make the trees get blurry, real fast - mat it and hold on!

[@VetteSource]

Sounds like a nice one. I vaguely remember hearing about the Comp T/A's, but I have never seen one in person. Have fun with that bad boy, and remember to get it out for some exercise whenever you can👍.

[@jacksonfive5478]

Love the c4 content I agree lt1 is a very good motor love my 94 vette just a very smooth running car it amazes me every time I take it out that drives as good as it does for an older car

[@VetteSource]

Yep, the C4's get alot of undeserved flak until the critics actually get to ride or drive in one😁

[@frankpavan3044]

Hi, thanks for the info. I have a 96' LT1 coupe. Love the torque this motor puts out. Very useful info for me so I am less clued out when I bring it for maintenance. Thanks alot!

[@VetteSource]

No problem Frank, glad to do it. Thanks for the feedback 👍

[@hemispherecars5616]

Very informative. I just got a 1994 Hardtop convertible last month. It's my 3rd C4 and I never paid attention to all the weight on the driver's side of the engine. I am busy working on all the things that are not quite right or broken or could use an upgrade. Fine engines and planning some minor mods.

[@VetteSource]

Thanks, appreciate the feedback. Once you experience a late C4, it's hard to stray away from them for very long. Quite comfortable to drive and darn fast to boot. That Torch Red with the hardtop is a great looking combination👍.

[@Jpilgrim30]

It’s not a huge deal. You should tap the water pump weep hole, install a hose barb, and run a short piece of hose away from the distributor in case it starts leaking it keep it out of the distributor. Also, if your distributor isn’t vented then you need to update it to the newer vented cap with the vacuum line running to it. With a little work you can make the optispark nearly bulletproof. Also, don’t use a cheaply built optispark if you do ever have to change it.

[@VetteSource]

Good advice, thanks for sharing👍. The common thread seems to be to stay away from the cheaply built replacements, as they quickly cause trouble and make life difficult everytime you have to go tearing the front end of the engine apart multiple times.

[@Jpilgrim30]

@@VetteSource yeah it’s just getting harder to find optispark units that have the Mitsubishi optical sensors in them.

[@VetteSource]

I can imagine, especially with the supply chain disruption issues the world is going through right now.

[@andrewdonohue1853]

i have a 96 camaro Z28 with the LT1. same engine...... corvette was rated 15 more hp. i love this engine. tons of torque, decent economy for a V8, stout, and durable. this has been my daily summer driver since 2014. the car has 255K miles on it, no major rust it's in great structural condition for a 24 year old car (it could use paint). it has never seen a winter, and it should be around for quite a few more years.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, I agree. I have gotten to the point were I don't even look at new cars anymore. My daily drivers are a 20 year old Chevy truck, and 15 year old Suburban. Both of them have around the same mileage as your Z28, with the truck being a bit more dependable due to being a pre-LS series drivetrain. Nothing against the LS architecture, they just seem to have more silly nagging issues like oil pump and lifter problems that are a pain to deal with.

[@kk-kh2kk]

Same have a 96 z28 bad motor putting in a 96 c4 engine

[@VetteSource]

Yep, nothing like 30 MPG out of a high performance V8👍

[@andrewdonohue1853]

@@VetteSource im going to sell the camaro. it needs allot of work and i just dont have the time. it's going to a guy that has worked on probably 20 or more of these cars. my replacement "hot rod" is a 2003 pontiac bonneville SSEi. i found a nice one and they just arent a common car anymore. i love it. im going to massage the 3800 L67 supercharged a little.

[@VetteSource]

Those are good cars as well. That GM 3800 is considered by many to be one of the best engines GM ever produced and is dead reliable. I've always like the Bonnevilles, just never see them around.amymore. it should serve you well👍.

[@josephgibbons1631]

I have a 94. Oil leaks common but can be fixed easily. Love it.

[@VetteSource]

Definitely a car that will always bring a smile to your face once your behind behind wheel. Thanks for the comments, Joseph👍

[@robbalsley9722]

Just purchased a 93 with 76k miles and replacing the manifold gasket (starting to leak).

[@VetteSource]

Yep, after about 30 years it's time. The certainly hold up better than the old style gaskets.

[@HairykinAngel]

Great tips, just picked up a 92 six speed.

[@VetteSource]

Congrats! LT-1 six speeds are a ton of fun. What color combo did you get?

[@HairykinAngel]

@@VetteSource Polo Green and Tan and Black interior.

[@VetteSource]

Good choice, easy to keep clean and classy looking interior that doesn't get to hot in the summer👍

[@nikkoalpha2]

The 1970 LT1 hp was measured at Gross HP while the 1992 LT1 was rated at Net HP. Both were great small block engines. The 1992 LT1 used fuel injection instead of carburetors as in the early 1970 LT1's. Very smooth in the 1990's while the 1970's were more brute force acceleration. Mod the newer LT1 with some head work, cam, and exhaust and it can hit low 12's.

[@VetteSource]

John, nice detailed writeup. Thanks for the contribution👍. You hit the nail on the head, brute force versus the smooth power of the 90's.

[@alonzahanks1182]

10.70 stock 2012 10 59 2023 and a best of 10 20 Brent Darroch 94 Camaro Z28 World Champion I should Say NHRA and IHRA Not allowed porting or Changing TB etc 513 gears 295 stickies a hell watch him on you Tube Brent Darroch type it he races a 68 Camaro with 427 Box engine 480 hp little lt1 Rules Then Type in Brent Darroch Stock Eliminator

[@RandallsRestRelaxation]

Great video, great info. Thanks!

[@VetteSource]

Glad you enjoyed it👍

[@adolphpittman6707]

Man!! That's GM' s hottest 350 ever!! Those things are beast!! My dad bought me a 95 ss camaro and it hauls ass never lost a race!! And its stock for the most part just aftermarket flowmasters exhaust!!

[@VetteSource]

Thats cool, sounds like your having a great time with your car. LT's to this day are a whole lot of engine for not that much money, and a heck of a good time without breaking your wallet.

[@jamesflames9930]

They make alot of torque at a low RPM which makes them able to hang tough in a 3200 lb 90s car to these newer 400 hp heavier muscle cars they have out now.

[@sgvern1]

Enjoyed your videos on the TPI and LT1 engines. You presented them simply and completely. I have subscribed because I feel you will be presenting useful instructional and informational content. Thanks, and keep up the good work.

[@VetteSource]

Thanks for the positive feedback. KZbin has been a wonderful resource in allowing me to share my passion and excitement for all things mechanical. I am glad that it resonates with my subscribers. Let me know if there is anything in particular you would like to see explained in a future video.👍

[@camaroz2823]

Never owed a corvette but have numerous camaros they are fun cars anything with a v8 is fun in sports cars and truck have a 99 z28 auto very fun z everybody needs to own a sports car or muscle car they can bring a smile to any day

[@VetteSource]

Very well put👍. I had a buddy with a 95 or 96 six speed Z28 back when it was new. We had some incredible fun with that car, and just barely managed to stay out of trouble with it😁.

[@ronaldlehmann6935]

Great information- very good at making it easy to understand - just got a 1992 Vett. Lt 1 - need all the information I can get-Thank You- God Bless

[@VetteSource]

Ronald, congrats on your purchase. You will definitely enjoy your Corvette, they're great cars. Thanks for the comments👍

[@clydemoreno1845]

95 base , changed out two optis, will continue to do it ....love the lt1. Takes me about 4 hours to change it out.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, once you get the hang of the procedure it's a fairly straightforward process. Great motors, and severely underrated right now. Thanks for the comments👍

[@johnferrarini2626]

I have a 92 love it

[@VetteSource]

Hey John, I agree the LT1 Corvettes are enjoyable and great drivers.

[@TheBeastKane]

nice i got an LT1 in my Firebird Trans Am.

[@VetteSource]

For sure, the f body LT-1's are tons of fun, especially with the BW six speed.

[@TheBeastKane]

@@VetteSource very fun, im building a new one right as we speak to put in it.

[@VetteSource]

To see more of this rare C4 Corvette Hardtop Convertible project see the playlist below - -kzbin.info/aero/PLAM-V1w3acpirxWq27Dvkqeuz4JbfnsB8

[@ScreamingEagleFTW]

when I click it it says the playlist does not exist.

[@VetteSource]

Try once more, I had it set to private accidentally.

[@454bigblock]

Brilliant video from here in New Zealand

[@VetteSource]

Glenn, thanks for the feedback. Glad you enjoyed the video👍.

[@jeremycribb4696]

I remember changing an optispark and water pump on my sisters 95 Z28 back in 2006. That was a boat load of fun, but the plug change I think was worse than the actual water pump and dizzy change. Her car had an automatic and it did okay. My friend had a 96 SS 6 speed that would shit and git.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, those plugs on the F-Bodys are a bear to change, especially the ones in the back under the firewall

[@Jpilgrim30]

The automatics will haul ass too especially with a shift kit and some sonnax upgrades in the trans and valve body. I bought a 96 z28 that was missing 3rd and 4th so I rebuilt the trans and upgraded a lot of stuff while I was in there. There may be slightly more loss through the automatic but that thing shifts so strong and fast it would hard to beat with a stick. Plus it’s got more than enough bolt ons to make up for that little bit of loss through the automatic. Some long tube headers and exhaust really wake these things up.

[@VetteSource]

That's the truth, the late 700R4/4L60E are awesome units.

[@lasvegaslife5770]

Your the man !! Love the lt1

[@VetteSource]

Thanks buddy, appreciate it👍

[@lasvegaslife5770]

@@VetteSource u really helped me !! Much appreciated

[@VetteSource]

Glad to do it, anytime👍

[@Orrinwellsbigo]

The engine that you are displaying is the LT1 engine only. 1996 was the last year of the LT1 model......SUPERCHARGED POWER FROM THE C7 CORVETTE Z06! As the heart of the Corvette Z06, the supercharged LT4 6.2L SC is the most powerful engine ever offered in a regular-production Chevrolet. It features a more-efficient, more-compact 1.7L Eaton R1740 TVS supercharger, which spins at up to 20,000 rpm. That’s enough to generate more than 9 pounds of boost and help produce 650 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque. The LT4 is based on the same Gen V Small-Block architecture as the LT1 engine, with several unique features designed to support its higher output and the greater cylinder pressures created by forced induction. They include Rotocast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads that are stronger and handle heat better than conventional castings, lightweight titanium intake valves and stronger forged aluminum pistons.

[@VetteSource]

Good info thanks for sharing👍 Just to clarify, the LT-1/LT1 engine designation has been used three times by Chevrolet since 1970. 1970-1972 the 350 SBC/ 370HP LT-1 was offered in the Corvette, Camaro, and Nova(COPO), and is considered by many to be one of the best engines ever made. 1992-1997 the LT1 350/300 HP engine was introduced in the Corvette and F-Body's with much of the same architecture of the previous LT-1 350 SBC and culminated in the one year Corvette only LT4 engine of 1996, which was essentially a hotrod version of the LT1. 2014-2019 the LT1 moniker was used again for the C7 Corvettes, and was completely different from the SBC/LT/LS series of engines. This engine architecture was shared among most of the GM line, and you will find the same basic engine design in most of the GM V8's

[@ThaDirtyBubble]

My LT1 has no issue laying some rubber. Im torn between building up the 350 or just putting my money into an LS.

[@VetteSource]

LS is definitely a powerful engine, but I advise people to think twice about sinking the $$$ and effort into a conversion before going down the rabbit hole, especially whether it will negatively affect the value of a low production car like your SS.

[@24theMoney]

Had a 4th gen Camaro with LT-1 and T-56. Torque monster down low.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, the LT1/6 speed F-Bodies are loads of fun.

[@paperboy371]

Parents bought a 93 Z28 new and it had to be a factory freak. Felt a lot stronger then the rated 275hp.

[@VetteSource]

I remember feeling that exact same way every time I was in an early 4th gen F body. The seat of the pants power seemed much stronger than what was advertised.

[@AMF96]

My dads 93 Trans Am was the same way.

[@joelk7725]

Awesome videos ! I love c4s

[@VetteSource]

This one is a neat car. I am trying to get it moved up on the to do list so I can start working on it again.

[@yokoshemp]

Actually liked my L98 TPI (Formula 350) better than my LT1 (C4). It was nice to have power in the 2000 to 4000rpm range rather than the LT1 that starts making power somewhere above 4500rpm. My vette is going 100mph before the motor really starts to sing. Just not practical power on the road. Passing two semi-trucks was 110mph in the L98 and only about 100mph in the LT1. If I ever do anything with the vette motor it will be getting a lower rpm cam. Over all both are great motors. I beat the living bejeezus out of that old F-bird and never broke the engine, trans, or rear end. Vette is a daily driver in the summer.

[@VetteSource]

Funny you mention that. I have a Bright Red 91 Formula 350 that I've featured here on the channel before that is my daily "beater". kzbin.info/aero/PLAM-V1w3acphlwNi8cUOcpbDDQ5knb2ts It's incredibly dependable, with everything functioning as intended, simple to work on, and looks horrible due to the burned paint and clear coat peeling off in sheets. I love driving the Corvettes, but for my daily errands and general driving the Formula is my go to car.

[@jojokrump1998]

Lt1 hit close to 300 ft of torque at 2400rpm

[@neal6473]

I have the B body LT1 on my 96 Impala SS car.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, great looking cars, and quite fast for a big 'ol 4 door sedan with that combo👍

[@craigt5906]

1992 LT1 was rated 300hp at 5000 RPM, toque is 330 lb. -ft at 4000 RPM

[@VetteSource]

Thanks for taking the time to provide the exact numbers👍. That'll be helpful as a quick reference.

[@dapper_gent]

there's a coil over plug mod I'm doing with my '93 corvette so the opti can run handle better with higher rpm's.

[@VetteSource]

Yep. I've heard about these aftermarket LS style coil systems. I've been curious about how expensive they are.

[@BoardwalkBullies]

Hey remember the Firehawk had TPI and was only bested in power by the LT5.

[@VetteSource]

Oh yea, forgot about the 91/92 Firehawks. Awesome cars👍.

[@ianmangham4570]

Awesome footage 😎🙋👍

[@VetteSource]

Thanks, appreciate the feedback👍

[@johno9507]

1:20 The TPI (Tuned Port Injection) wasn't the first generation of electronic fuel injection, the 1982-1984 Cross Fire Injection was the first on a Corvette.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, I've addressed that in a few of the other comments. I didn't include it simply because it was kind of a hybrid type system using the carb like throttle bodies versus a system with individual injectors for each cylinder with a complete different type of intake system. Thanks for the comments👍. BTW, is that a GE-90 you're standing in on your avatar picture?

[@johno9507]

@@VetteSource Hahaha! Yes it is, well spotted. 😃 That was taken at Sydney (Australia) airport on a Lauda Airways Boeing 777 when I worked for Qantas years ago. And although you can't see it, I'm holding a miniature jet engine for a RC aircraft that I was building. 🙂🇦🇺

[@VetteSource]

Awesome! I have the same type of photo from when I was working for Continental back in the late 90's. We had just taken delivery of our tail #001 from Boeing, and we all had to take a turn climbing up into the nacelle to get the picture. Such an amazing engine👍. I really like the jet engine powered RC aircraft. Wish I had more time to explore that hobby.

[@alfonzocurry8035]

Very nice video!! Super informative.

[@VetteSource]

Thanks Alfonzo, appreciate the feedback👍

[@moodberry]

Just subscribed. Nice channel. I own a 92, and so it's super interesting to me. But you mentioned a video "tomorrow" Can you provide the link to that video?

[@VetteSource]

I may have misspoke in the video. My upload schedule is not always consistent with the daily demands of my business.

[@ront487]

Gm had electronic fuel injector in 74 twin cam vaga costwoth 75 on a 76 model year cadillac Seville

[@VetteSource]

Yep, I was just watching a buddy work on the fuel injection in his Cosworth Vega the other day.

[@garysmith4909]

Good informative video 😁

[@VetteSource]

Great, glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the feedback👍

[@tokuzumi1]

Knew that was a 92 or 93, as there was no MAF visible. 94-97 were the MAF cars, and multi-point fuel injection. 92/93 were batch style injection. It's really too bad this engine only stuck around for 6 models years. Never really got a chance for all the cool stuff the LS engines have enjoyed. At least you can use any SBC rods/pistons, and possibly crank (assuming it's a one piece rear main seal). And I'd rather get a 2 bolt main engine and then do a splayed 4 bolt conversion. Much stronger. But ultimately these engines weren't that great. Too many issues with the optispark and the cooling system. And the ignition control module always goes out on these, to the point where it's the first thing all the forums say. Tire pressures are low...check the ICM. And fuel shut off at 6500? I don't think so. It's 5750 rpm. The LT4 had a redline of 6300, due to lighter rotating components.

[@VetteSource]

Thanks for the comments. Even though these are now considered "mid-life cycle" engines in the evolution of the SBC, they had a bunch of cool tech feature that paved the way for the later engines. Even with some of the "difficulties" you described, these engines are very reliable long term, and will give you many years of driving enjoyment when properly maintained. I have 2 LT-1 cars and 2 LT-4 cars, from 20K miles to 140K miles, and everyone of them still hauls the mail😁.

[@chavez2102]

Thank you for the information, I have a LT1 engine in my 1993 Chevrolet Corvette and runs perfect for me; however once optiSpark fails, can I replace it with an after market brand such as MSD? If so, does it protect it against any eventual water pump leak? Thank you.

[@VetteSource]

I've heard good thing about the MSD ignition, but not sure how it will react with a water pump leak. For what's it worth, my 96 Aqua LT4 has a water pump leak right now, and it still runs like a scalded dog even with water dripping all over the the optispark. Go figure🤔.

[@JosephHowes2003]

I plan on changing the water pump soon as a precaution since 76k miles seems a sensible time to do it so it doesn't go out one day and destroy the Optispark. Can I just install a thin piece of plastic between them in a way that directs water away from the Opti?

[@VetteSource]

Better to use one of the newer design optisparks that has the vent holes to keep the moisture out

[@JosephHowes2003]

@@VetteSource I'm not planning on changing the Optispark since it still works. Unless there's reason to believe that it's not working optimally. Is there a warning sign when it's near the end of its life or is it all or nothing?

[@VetteSource]

@@JosephHowes2003 no, unfortunately not. Most times it just flat out fails. Interesting coincidence, the day after I published this video it rained all day here. Went out yesterday to start the car and yep, it wouldn't start. No spark to the cylinders. I am going to put out a video tomorrow showing how to quickly isolate if you are having an optispark failure.

[@JosephHowes2003]

@@VetteSource I'll plan on watching it then. If I find the labor to be difficult on the water pump maybe I'll change the Opti after all so I don't have to do it again anytime soon.

[@jeremycribb4696]

My sisters Z28 opti went out at 60ish thousand miles, but it was also eleven years old at the time of repair.

[@TheBlkac1]

I'm thinking about installing this motor in my Chevy G20 van...

[@VetteSource]

That would definitely wake up your van and be a cool thing to see when opening the hood. Let me know if you end up going that direction, I have two low mileage LT-1 engine assemblies available for sale.

[@TheBlkac1]

@@VetteSource 😃👋🏿Hey thanks for responding/reading my comment! I'm going through with it...do you offer installation? And where are you located? And how much are you asking for your engine?

[@andrewdonohue1853]

@@VetteSource if i ever needed an engine for my 96 Z28 perhaps a corvette 4 bolt LT1 swap? my car runs strong but 255K on the odometer. it's practically a legend LOL. someday she might get tired

[@VetteSource]

Yep, the Corvette LT-1 will work. There are a few engine accessories and sensors that will need to be changed out but it is a doable swap.

[@joelk7725]

I’ve heard of opti spark alternative kits that are available. Do you have any experience with or have heard of any opti spark delete kits ?

[@VetteSource]

You know, quite a few of the commenters have mentioned them and their ndividual experiences with them. I personally have never had to use one, guess I have been fortunate to get a batch of cars with dependable optisparks.

[@scottandison1086]

Just drop a hei in it and use a gm performance parts intake and carb If you wanna delete the optispark.

[@Ricky-manic]

I wanna get my hands on one of these take the intake off and swap a vortec 4 barrel intake and maybe swap the cam 😎

[@VetteSource]

Ive seen this done before somewhere. Good option for lots of torque all the way through the power band. Thanks for watching👍

[@Ricky-manic]

@@VetteSource I am a subscriber now lol

[@Antmanlv]

i have one of these sitting in my garage you can have it

[@VetteSource]

Interesting. Is it a running engine or something that will need work? What part of the country are you in? Maybe MATT MAN is still watching this comment thread.

[@Ricky-manic]

@@VetteSource yea I am still watching this tread I use to have a 350 lt1 but it was a 2 bolt main and from a Buick roadmaster traded it for a 425 big block Cadillac lol still plan on getting one of those LT1 4 bolt main motors from a 1990 Corvette

[@gaddyify]

Just saw a white C4 today, and that car still stand out.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, the body style has aged well and in comparison looks tiny in comparison to the new cars currently being built.

[@ryanm3749]

Map = manifold absolute pressure, maf = mass air flow

[@jopoveromo1054]

My 95 has a vented optispark, I think 95 and 96 are better off with that system.

[@VetteSource]

Hey Jo, you're correct. They made several running changes to the units during the 6 years of production based on field reports from the technicians. The venting of the units, while a simple fix, seemed to do the trick.

[@jesseerickson963]

I've heard that some of the #'s matching z28 Camaros have 4 bolt mains presumably due to a lack of 2 bolt main blocks at certain times so GM threw in some overstock vette blocks. Can anyone confirm? I have a 94z made at the end of 93 and have my fingers 🤞but I guess I won't find out until I drop the pan

[@VetteSource]

Hey Jesse, anything possible, but that would be difficult to confirm since so many years have passed and so many of the f-bodies of that generation have been used up and thrown away. Hopefully someone looking through the comments may have some inside information.

[@77trashman]

My father has a 92 corvette that's in OK Condition with 90,000 hours on the clock, but it hasn't ran for 10ish years for sale.....$4,000 obo

[@VetteSource]

If you can send some more details to [e-mail] I can forward your information to some of my customers that may be interested.

[@sergiocarmonajr7127]

auto 6speed ? send me info too

[@Pornflakes-theband]

Nice Vid, Have a 3rd gen trans am, with LT 1 and trans from a Impala SS. does this version have better low end torq ? Thins done to the engine is high volume oil pump, hedman headers , 3 inc ex - flowmaster - and cold air intake. Love the respons of the engine, cant understand why people tell the LS 1 is so much better, cheers from Norway.

[@VetteSource]

Hi Kjetil, thanks for the feedback. Sounds like you have a well sorted out engine with the right modifications for added power. The torque numbers are pretty consistent between the Impalas SS and F Body cars, so you shouldn't see much difference in the numbers overall.

[@xarrow81]

can you take off all the environment exhaust stuff/carp?

[@VetteSource]

Hey xarrow, you can remove it but all you'll end up doing is making it run rich and confuse the heck out of the ECM. Most of the time it just runs worse after removing the smog equipment.

[@tryjames1ify]

What's your opinion on putting in a chip do you think worth effort

[@VetteSource]

A performance chip isn't a bad thing, but without complementary add-ons like headers, exhaust, and intake you won't notice much of a difference.

[@tryjames1ify]

I have stock headers,exhaust in my 93 and didn't take thought of intake okay appreciate you.

[@VetteSource]

No problem, have a great Thanksgiving👍.

[@willstikken5619]

TPI wasn't the first generation of GM electronic injection. It was their first generation port injection though.

[@VetteSource]

You are correct, the 1976 Cadillac Seville was the first US V-8 powered car that offered a Bendix designed electronic fuel injection system. Then you had the throttle body injection(TBI) that began showing up on GM cars in the early 80's before the introduction of the Tuned Port Injection in 1985. If I am remembering correctly, the TBI system was in use on many GM cars, while the TPI was a Corvette/F-Body exclusive system. Of course now all of this has been ditched in favor of the diesel type direct injection system we see on new cars today. Thanks for the feedback.

[@willstikken5619]

@@VetteSource There were a lot of variations including the crossfire dual TBI and central port injection systems. A lot of the newer aftermarket setups are also TBI setups usually made to resemble carburetors. The real tragedy of the TPI setup is how undersized they were for a 350+ CID engine.

[@VetteSource]

For sure, the TPI was a curious design. It almost looks like they went for form over function, as the length of the intake runner tube seriously compromises the allowable diameter which results in that upper RPM limitation beginning around 5000 RPM. However, i still find them to be one of the best looking stock fuel injection systems out there. The design has aged well, and still draws comments from people when you lift the hood.

[@willstikken5619]

@@VetteSource The long runners are optimized for torque but the diameter of the tube and more importantly the ports in the manifold base were sized for a 305. A similar decision hindered performance of the crossfire intakes. When you put either of them on a 350 they just cant flow enough air. On the TPI engines it was common to extrude-hone or replace the runners with larger diameter after matket setups to address this but the manifold base was the real problem and could only be improved so much. It's a shame that so much was left on the table when they designed these parts. For something like an early C4 the torque of a TPI setup still allowed them to fun to drive even when they didnt make much HP.

[@VetteSource]

Yep. I get that alot from my first time Corvette customers. They're surprised by the seat of the pants feel on initial acceleration from a dead stop. They run out of steam pretty early but will still surprise quite a few cars at the stoplight.

[@43rdguy]

Im picking up a 95 caprice with a 96 ss lt1 engine. If it dont say corvette on it imma be upset. I want that lt1

[@VetteSource]

I hear ya. The biggest difference in the Caprice LT-1's and the Corvette LT-1's is the aluminum heads and four bolt main block. Unfortunately the "Corvette" intake covers won't work on the Impala LT-1 without some modifications. As long as it is a 5.7L LT-1 you will be happy with the performance👍

[@43rdguy]

@@VetteSource Oh ok. I didnt even know that. Im assuming this is gonna be the ss engine from the 96 in this caprice. I drive a 2001 Mercury Gran Marquis now and the performance is pretty decent on the 4.6 but this 5.7 smh I cant wait lol

[@VetteSource]

Yea, they are quite fun to cruise with on the open road. Plenty of power to get in trouble with😁

[@GitGoodGaming]

I have a Caprice with the LT1 engine In it

[@VetteSource]

Hey Zachary. I remember that some of the Caprices, especially the police editions and Impala SS versions cam equipped with the LT-1's. Good solid cars with a great motor. Thanks for sharing👍

[@ScreamingEagleFTW]

would you include the 1996 LT4 as just as good?

[@VetteSource]

Most definitely, I have quite a few videos about the LT4's that you may have missed. Here's a link to the playlist - The 1996 Corvette LT4 Engine: kzbin.info/aero/PLAM-V1w3acpirxWq27Dvkqeuz4JbfnsB8

[@kylebarnes7256]

Anyone else notice the belt was on backwards?

[@pierredecine1936]

But you have to run 91 octane ! I have a 4.3 L LT-1 in a 1996 Caprice .

[@VetteSource]

On the 5.7 LT's, it's preferred, but you should be good with the 87 octane on the 4.3 version

[@pierredecine1936]

@@VetteSource No - it Pings on 87 !

[@PerryCook-lb5yj]

Question will ALT one intake fit a L 98 engine

[@VetteSource]

I'm not familiar with that one. Which company makes it?

[@marcusweathers7478]

STILL GOT MINE ..235K OUTRUNS MOST NEW CARS...EVERYDAY!!!!!

[@VetteSource]

Yep, that's the amusing part most people don't notice. Durability and still quite fast👍.

[@retiresoon5639]

LOL. The cross fire was the first gen EFI

[@VetteSource]

Ok, thanks for watching👍

[@sullivan3257]

How much hp did this lt1 have

[@VetteSource]

300 HP @ 5000 RPM and 330 LB FT Torque @ 4000. Nice flat and strong torque/hp curbe that pulls through every gear, especially with the ZF 6 speed transmission.

[@gdmfsob4424]

95 formula convertible in mystic teal

[@VetteSource]

I remember that color. Very trippy with the flip flop between purple, dark blue, and iridescent.

[@Ronin_1983]

i gotta say it... your rims are on backwards, the sawblades face tward the back.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, not the first time I've heard it👍

[@dagger4146]

Is it me, or is that serpentine belt inside out ???

[@VetteSource]

Nope, it just looks weird the way it's routed. These early LT-1's had a double- ribbed belt due to the design of the serpentine/idler setup.

[@dagger4146]

@@VetteSource Thanks. Started watching a few more videos and I stand corrected.

[@paulstahl9799]

Optispark__ money pit Optispark___ money pit Optispark____ moneypit

[@VetteSource]

Sounds like your Optispark has been mistreating you😁.

[@jamesflames9930]

My oem optihas been good justcap & rotor it like any distributor its the after markets that dont last long

[@VetteSource]

There is some truth to that. It's difficult to find aftermarket parts that stand up to the OEM pieces. That is until EVERYTHING began being produced overseas🤪.

[@joshstaley7459]

that opti spark is trash and its not just moisture that causes the problem. 1996 lt4 is a hot car

[@VetteSource]

Yep, that Optispark causes quite a bit of debate. Some people have decent reliability, some have nothing but trouble. Personally I think much of it has to do with how the car is stored or garaged. Of the three optispark equipped cars I've featured on my channel, only the 92 has given me intermittent starting problems, and that's after leaving it parked outside.

[@joshstaley7459]

@@VetteSource i agree with you, i have not had much problems with my OPTi spark on my impala because I don’t drive it. the reputation was gained from people that bought Firebirds, Camaros and impalas as the daily drivers in the 90s and they were complete shit as a driver. if moisture didn’t kill the damn thing the gases it created would burn out the pick up. the 24X torqhead kit is the way to go that’s what I’m doing with mine

[@VetteSource]

Yep, I've talked to quite a few guys doing the conversion. It seems to be the way to go to alleviate some of the potential problem areas. Say, are you from Friendswood? Went to HS with a Staley.

[@Anthony-qj7qe]

Good engine but I hate the optispark distributor and its placement.... I don't know what GM was thinking by designing it this way, its a stupid design.

[@VetteSource]

It is odd for sure. Of course I think they same way they're running the coolant lines right through the middle of the superchargers screws on the new Corvettes as well. It definitely makes you wonder what they were 🤔

[@paulreithknecht5616]

👍

[@VetteSource]

Thanks for the feedback

[@jaymortensen642]

Every time I watch a video about the LT1 and they start talking about 5 or 6 K RPM and still pulling I question it not that it won't do it but I don't think I ever had my 92 over 3500 I guess I am just a pussy lol. Really I have just put so much time and money into it I don't have any desire to beat on it. PA the opti is not very difficult it just takes a little time to remove everything which is not much different to cars made today .

[@VetteSource]

Yep, the LT1 has a very broad, flat torque curve across the RPM range until around 6000 as opposed to the L98 that had more grunt down low below 3500. With the 4 bolt mains in the Corvette LT1's it's hard to hurt them unless you're aiming to bounce it off the rev limiter all the time😁

[@marknowakowski6590]

Weep hole would be synonymous with water pump and the opti spark high and low Rez sensors were junk if it was not a good quality GM part. (Chinese junk) wouldn’t last very long and would cut out intermittently when the low quality innerts took a crap as the sensors or the disk with notches would warp and damage sensors as it was being powered / turned by the cam so no parasitic power loss would result. Yet faulty quality n craftsmanship from cheap junk caused the start / no start or run a few hundred miles then dies and won’t start until the next day senerio .

[@VetteSource]

Hey Mark, thanks for the writeup. The offshore produced cheap units have definitely done some damage to the reputation of the optispaek in general. This is one of those components that I always recommend not cheaping out on because the labor involved in replacing it can be rather extensive, especially for first timers.

[@marknowakowski6590]

@@VetteSource ya I know I had to replace one back in 2015 and took me a few hours along with the water pump. All the issues just so the car could be accepted by the gov standards for emissions. It may crank over in a jiffy but what’s a dang two seconds more compared to all the shit with the Opti when they go out especially if your on the road when it all goes down.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, the government regulations have had a serious effect on new car production for a long time now. Even though the new one are very comfortable to drive, they're only as reliable as the electronics running them, then there about as useful as an old smart phone😁.

[@syntaxerorr]

Working on a stock 2nd gen LT1 is easy. lol no.

[@VetteSource]

Oh, c'mon. Everyone needs a challenge to make things interesting😁.

[@susanzalewski996]

No Thier not all 4 bolt main

[@VetteSource]

Feom the factory If it's in a Corvette it's a 4 bolt, F-Body is a 2 bolt. That's is unless somebody changed the engine out at some point in the cars past. Thanks for the comments👍.

[@Parrain0606]

Sorry . . . . I just can’t watch eight or minutes of a car guy calling an internal combustion engine a motor. It’s an OCD thing I had to eject at 3:31.

[@VetteSource]

Oh well, I can't please everyone. Motor or engine, potato or potatoe, the end result is sustained locomotion. Have a good one👍.