*** ECS - LS7 Build for my C5 *** [Archive] - SmokinVette.com Forums

: *** ECS - LS7 Build for my C5 ***


Wicked Weasel @ ECS
01-15-2008, 01:55 PM
I am sure that many of the general people have never seen an engine build so we decided that we would document my LS7 build for my 01 C5. We are going to do our best to show pictures and explain what we are doing and/or why we decided to go one direction over another.

I will continue to update this thread on the progress of the build, but you can follow the entire build which includes commentary, pictures and research at

http://www.ecsracing.com/ecsracing/forumdisplay.php?f=77

Some Background

My last track day at WGI my timing chain went and it was time to make a decision on what to do with my car. My ECS H/C 346 had over 3 years of road racing and over 50 1/4 mile passes. I was not happy that a double roller broke causing me to make a decision on a new setup, but such is life and so the decision was to either try and fix what I have or look into a new engine. A new engine that sounds so nice (that was a quick decision :D )

Originally we were going to install a 402 in my car. ECS has proven success with this setup in different street applications, but ECS was concerned about an engine that is almost completely dedicated to Road Race Tracks (15-20 track days per year) surviving with a standard oil system so they started to investigate Dry Sump systems (there is a write up on Dry Sump systems at http://www.ecsracing.com/ecsracing/showthread.php?t=442 ).

At PRI this year Doug@ECS found a ton of valuable information on Dry Sump systems, unfortunately every system that he found would mean that I would lose the A/C which I was not willing to do (it is still taken on the street in the summer and I wanted A/C). Then out of no where thrown on the table was the LS7 setup. GM has already developed a Dry sump with the LS7 setup and we all know there is plenty of power on tap with a 427. I could also keep my A/C so we looked into it further.

Sure the GM LS7 dry sump solution is probably not as good as some of the aftermarket systems that Doug looked at, but after doing some research I personally felt the GM solution (with a few mods) would be more than adequate for what I do. Of course only time will tell if this is true or not, but many LS7 owners are happy with their cars on the Track.

Right now we are just starting to get parts in for the build. Here are some teaser pics (more at ecsracing) which should get your blood pumping:

7.0L BABY - Front

http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/block_front.JPG

Where are we going to fine Pistons for this :D

http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/block_side.JPG

Crank

http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/crank_top.JPG

Oil pan - dont need much with Dry sump

http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/oil_pan.JPG

hammatime
01-16-2008, 04:57 AM
Looking really nice guys! I can't wait to see the end result on this one! That one sentence on the bottom was also cool "Run flat out until you see god, count 3 seconds and then brake" that is what you really call hitting the corners!:willy_nilly:

Wicked Weasel @ ECS
01-19-2008, 07:59 AM
Off to the machine shop

M2 Race Systems in Farmingdale, NJ Sunnen CK21 Computerized Hone
http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine1.jpg

LS7 Block bolted in
http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine2.jpg

Pistons are verified with micrometer to ensure all 8 pistons are the same and so proper piston wall clearance can be optained.
http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine3.jpg

Torque plate is installed which simulates the cylinder head and when torques down helps keep the cylinders round.
http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine4.jpg

Start of the honing process
http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine5.jpg

coolant - keep cutters clean and to reduce heat
http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine6.jpg

The honing head with the Diamond Hone attached
http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine7.jpg

During the process the honing heads are changed to obtain the correct finish.

Little Ceasar
01-20-2008, 08:03 AM
Keep it coming! :party: :party: :party:

Wicked Weasel @ ECS
01-21-2008, 05:17 AM
added machine shop descriptions to clarify what is going on

prochargedvette
01-21-2008, 09:36 AM
added machine shop descriptions to clarify what is going on

Following this also! good stuff Wicked Weasel!

BLKDragon
01-22-2008, 06:51 AM
Very cool, keep it coming weasel!

Wicked Weasel @ ECS
02-04-2008, 05:06 PM
We had to put my build on hold to build a customer's engine, but we are on the way again (and still on target for completion).

Here are some teaser pics, but more will be coming soon

http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine9.jpg

http://www.ecsracing.com/Pictures/427build/engine8.jpg

:cheers: