This Chevy II Nova LS conversion kit mounts an LS engine and transmission in a 1962-1967 Chevy II Nova. The Muscle Rods LSX21 kit centers the engine in the bay (the factory engine sat offset to the passenger side), which leaves more room for accessories. Order it for an LS with a T-56, or an LS with a 4L60E to 4L70E.
What's in the kit
- (2) Motor mounts
- (4) Frame bracket plates
- (1) Transmission crossmember
- (1) Polyurethane transmission mount
- (1) Installation hardware pack
It is designed around the factory subframe, suspension and steering parts.
Transmission options
Choose LS and T-56, or LS and 4L60E to 4L70E. The factory clutch Z-bar will not work with the kit, and driveshaft length will change from the original.
Does my transmission need tunnel work?
- 4L60E automatic: clears without transmission tunnel modifications.
- T-56 six speed: the tunnel must be cut open and widened, and a casting boss on the T-56 tailshaft needs grinding to clear the crossmember.
Which oil pan works?
The kit is designed around the GTO oil pan. The dipstick tube runs through a notch in the front passenger frame bracket and may need a slight bend to clear it.
Headers, A/C and accessories
- The 1998-2002 F-Body accessory drive is recommended. Its low mount A/C compressor and alternator clear the frame.
- Use a 9 inch or smaller brake booster and relocate the last coil for clearance.
- Check clearance at the rear of the driver side head. It should sit about 3/8 inch from the firewall bulge, but factory build tolerances may mean working the firewall.
- Muscle Rods headers are designed around a floor shifter. Column shift linkage needs modification.
The kit is made in the USA. Read the 1962-1967 Chevy II Nova LS install guide for the parts list and install steps, or add headers and more in the complete LS swap kit builder.