@LeonR - yeah, the GN was a BOP RWD pattern. Regarding the LS4, I've a few concerns:
1. It's longer, so harder to fit behind the radiator
2. No factory RWD exhaust manifolds ready to bolt on
3. Harder to find in boneyards than the 3800
4. I have to admit I haven't priced 'em, but they've got to be more costly than the L36 or L67 in boneyards? The Flint engine plant made almost a million or more 3800's so they're everywhere.
5. Something about the starter needing to be mounted differently?
Aside from these reasons, I'm also just more familiar with the 3800's and their control systems and integrating it into another vehicle, etc. and I know very little in comparison about the LS4. I've ready access to 3800's and don't have a LS4, so the choice is obvious for me. But regardless, I think for anyone, the much more affordable build will be the 3800 from many reasons - one being that you can use the stock PCM and wiring harness that you'll probably get for free with the engine - no need to spend the money on Megasquirt, etc. and stock either the L36 or L67 will give comparable power to the original 3.5L (so you don't have to worry about stressing the 4L30e) and if trans durability isn't a concern, the L67 can be modified to make plenty enough power.
I have to agree that if you have your heart set on a V8 for that V8 exhaust note if nothing else, the LS4 is definitely the way to go over any other LS series due to the FWD bolt pattern. So how cheap is a LS4? Are they easy to find? So no one wants them due to the bolt pattern?
Anyone have any comments on how the TOD and ABS controller interface with the PCM?
@circmand - I see you're from Greenville, MS? I'm from MS - my wife's from Greenville but it's been over 20 years ago. Got married there @ 1st Baptist. Is the drag strip still open? I got stopped by the cops drag racing a buddy's '84 Mustang GT against another buddy's brand new '86 GT while a guy that just bought a GN off the showroom floor paced us ('cause it was no contest that it was faster!) at 3:00 AM on Hwy 82 coming into town back in the day when we were young and stupid! We stop at Doe's Eat Place whenever we're back now days and don't mind spending the money!
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