Complete MuscleRods LS Engine Swap Kit for 1973-1987 GM C/K Trucks and 1973-1991 K5 Blazer/Jimmy
Swapping an LS powerplant into a 1973 through 1987 GM C/K or K5 Blazer calls for the 2WD GM Truck LS Conversion Kit, engineered to position your engine precisely at the factory frame angle. Steel brackets and mounts are CNC laser cut to maintain the LS crank centerline and preserve driveline geometry, preventing vibration and u-joint wear. In addition, the design supports T56, 4L60E and 4L80E transmissions without altering the transmission tunnel and uses existing frame holes with grade eight hardware for a bolt in installation. MuscleRods has included clearance for deep oil pans up to four inches thick in the frame rails while ensuring proper pickup alignment on uneven surfaces.
Precision CNC Laser Cut Bracketry for Accurate Engine Placement
The conversion kit's core strength lies in its CNC laser cut steel engine mounts, engineered to align the LS crank centerline with the original GM C/K frame angle. By matching these angles without the need for shims or guesswork, driveline geometry remains true, which directly reduces vibration and prevents universal joint stress. Installers benefit from a bolt-in process that uses existing frame holes and grade eight hardware, eliminating welding and ensuring consistent clamp load. This attention to precise fitment translates into longer bearing life and a smoother power transfer for vintage truck enthusiasts.
Direct Fit Transmission Crossmember for Multiple Gearboxes
This kit accommodates T56, 4L60E and 4L80E transmissions with a purpose-built crossmember and bracket set that bolts into factory openings without modifying the tunnel. Maintaining the stock transmission tunnel retains chassis strength and avoids cutting or filler plates, while the included hardware pack delivers correct clamp loads for secure attachment. By cradling each gearbox at its intended mount points, the design preserves proper driveshaft angles and minimizes wrap under load. Technicians gain hours back on the install and avoid complex fabrication, all while safeguarding the truck's structural integrity.
Optimized Oil Pan Accommodation for Reliable Lubrication
Aware of the popularity of deep oil pans, the brackets are spaced to clear pans up to four inches tall, supporting both high clearance and retro style options without modification. The engine is set slightly forward and raised to protect the sump from road obstacles, while preserving internal pickup alignment and baffle function. This ensures consistent oil flow under hard cornering or steep terrain, preventing starvation and heat-related issues. Builders can confidently pair any compatible LS pan with these squarebody trucks, knowing lubrication integrity remains uncompromised.
Polyurethane Isolation System with Reinforced Steel Brackets
Instead of conventional rubber, this kit employs polyurethane isolators that resist heat, oil and solvent exposure while controlling engine movement with minimal deflection. All brackets are formed from thick gauge steel in the USA and feature strategic gusset plates at stress points to prevent deformation under repeated torque cycles. The result is a stout support network that keeps engine motion in check and vibrations to a minimum. Each mount arrives with professional grade eight bolts and washers, ensuring the assembly remains rock solid for miles of reliable performance.
Count on MuscleRods for precise engineering and reliable fitment. For a more robust kit where you can build this same kit but customize components to suit your needs, see our Complete LS Swap Kits - LS Kit Builder.