These '10 Camaro manifolds...
These '10 Camaro manifolds are the ones we need, and more than likely the right application for most swaps. Tubular headers would've been better for power and fitment, but keep in mind that to be street legal we need complete compliance to the factory spec.
Plenty of E-Rods will likely be dropped in second-gen Camaros, so we also wanted to be a bit different while still keeping it relevant; the subframe in the '75-79 X-body Novas is essentially the same as a second-gen F-body Camaro and Firebird. So what are you up against when you decide to perform this swap? For now, we'll introduce you to the major E-Rod components and the EcoNova, but stay with us in subsequent issues as we walk you through the process all the way through the installation and certification. The pains will be worth it-even if you aren't yet subject to, or just don't care about smog restrictions. A GM-reliable, turnkey 430hp LS3 is a great powerplant for any vintage rod.
E-Rod Package Parts List
• 6.2L LS3 with 430 hp and 424 lb-ft of torque
• LS3 engine wiring harness
• Engine control module with emissions-legal calibration
• Catalytic converters
• Exhaust manifolds
• Oxygen sensors and sensor bosses
• Fuel tank evaporative emissions canister
• Air filter
• Mass airflow sensor and sensor boss
• Accelerator pedal (for use with the LS3's electronic throttle)
• Instruction manual
• Price? As low as $7,600
Catalytic converters have...
Catalytic converters have come a long way; these four little guys are production pieces complete with bungs for four oxygen sensors and OE-level emissions reduction. They're universal fitment, but have been designed to work with most popular GM muscle cars with minimal issue.
The E-Rod kit comes complete...
The E-Rod kit comes complete with all the required sensors for installation as well as a specially tuned version of the E67 ECU that provides only engine and emissions equipment controls. You'll need to specify manual or automatic trans to make sure you get the right programming. Ours is for an auto.
Perhaps the oddest part of...
Perhaps the oddest part of the install will be retrofitting the electronic fly-by-wire throttle pedal. We've always been fans of simple cables, but the pedal and throttle body are necessary evils for smog certification.
We've been pulling these things...
We've been pulling these things out of cars our whole lives, so this represents the first time we've ever willingly installed an evaporative emissions canister into a car!
GMPP was even considerate...
GMPP was even considerate enough to toss in one of their performance conical air filters; though due to different chassis configurations, we're up to our own devices to create the plumbing.