Complete MuscleRods LT Engine Swap Kit for 1973-1987 Squarebody GM Trucks
The 1973-1987 GM Truck LT Conversion Kit addresses the challenge of precise engine placement and support when installing a Gen V LT motor into a GM Squarebody chassis. It combines heavy gauge steel crossmember and CNC cut brackets to lock the power plant exactly where the factory V8 sat while preserving clearance for steering and suspension components. Detailed diagrams and labeled hardware guide installers through drill locations bolt patterns and harness routing to eliminate guesswork. With all components and hardware organized in labeled kits MuscleRods helps reduce installation time while limiting vibration to protect ancillary systems.
Precision CNC Bracket Fabrication for LT Engine Alignment
Frame brackets are laser cut from heavy gauge steel using computer numerical control to match the exact contour of 1973 to 1987 GM half ton 2WD rails. This level of precision ensures that a Gen V LT engine sits precisely where the factory V8 once lived, preserving driveline geometry under load. By maintaining true centerline alignment, belt and chain tension remain consistent and universal joints operate without undue stress. Installers save time by fitting brackets without modification and avoid clearance conflicts with steering or suspension parts.
Rigid Steel Crossmember Designed to Withstand Torque Loads
The crossmember is built from thick walled steel box sections welded to the CNC brackets, forming a single rigid beam capable of handling modern LT output. Its engineered shape resists the torsional forces generated during full throttle launches, protecting both motor and chassis rails from twist and fatigue. Precise height placement provides ideal clearance for control arms and steering linkage, while stainless steel fasteners guard against corrosion. The result is a sturdy cradle that minimizes vibration and maintains consistent power transfer across varied driving conditions.
Engine Mount Geometry Maintaining Accessory Drive Paths
Mounts are designed to hold the LT block at a specific angle so that alternator, power steering pump and air conditioning compressor remain in their original locations. This calculated orientation avoids interference and ensures factory belt alignment stays within specification. Reinforced steel plates in each mount limit lateral movement under load, reducing noise and preventing premature wear on hoses and pulleys. The stable pulley layout also contributes to smooth idle quality and dependable performance throughout the entire RPM range.
Comprehensive Kit Organization Simplifying Swap Installations
All components arrive in clearly labeled bags with detailed diagrams outlining drill points, bolt patterns and harness routing. The kit includes engine mounts, frame brackets, crossmember assembly, transmission support, wiring harness and a complete fastener set so no parts need sourcing elsewhere. Step by step instructions remove guesswork and help both experienced fabricators and first time builders complete the LT engine swap more efficiently. With hardware sorted and items identified, installers can focus on assembly instead of tracking down components.
Count on MuscleRods for a well engineered foundation for your LT project. For a more robust kit where you can select your own parts to better suit your needs see our Complete LT Swap Kits - LT Kit Builder.