LS/LT Head Dowel Swap Tool

LS/LT Head Dowel Swap Tool

Posted by TeamTick on 28th Mar 2022

Part of the Chevrolet V8 family's popularity is the interchangeability. You can mix LS parts between junkyard parts and aftermarket support. The Gen-V LT engine is still expensive and requires some complications with the direct-injection system. We developed this simple tool that allows you to mix LS and LT head to engines. Maybe you have an LT with Direct Injection, and you want an LS top end? No problem. Or maybe, you want to avoid expensive swap components for the LT, and decide to build an LS bottom end. We got you.

Use the tool to precisely drill for at least two new dowel holes, which center the heads on the new block. Otherwise, head bolts and water jackets line up between the two engines. LS engines feature dowels on the lower outer on the block and LT on the upper outer holes. You can perform the operation on the heads or block, and generally should be on the outward locations.

This additional cutter tool allows you to swap heads and blocks; If you have an LS engine and want Gen-V LT-style heads or vice versa, this tool allows that. This cutter tool is an add-on to our popular Head Bolt Drill Fixture for Gen 3 & 4 GM LS-Series Blocks, so you can perform the job at home without a machine shop.
This tool is custom-made by our specifications and manufactured by an American-made tool company we trust. Like the rest of the Head Bolt Drill Fixture kit, you can use the tool with a standard-style drill. It features a unique indication line for locating the stop collar. This drill opens up pre-existing holes for precise dowels, which are different between the two engines.

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PLEASE NOTE: This tool is only one piece of the puzzle when swapping between LT and LS. The LT uses a cam-driven fuel pump and a unique camshaft. We are working with Cam Motion to develop custom cams for these applications. Also, LT pistons feature a design unique for direct-injected engines, and factory LS heads will have piston-to-valve clearance issues. In most cases, it may require pistons that match the heads (LS pistons for LS heads and LT pistons for LT heads). Must be used in conjunction with our Head Bolt Drill Fixture for Gen 3 & 4 GM LS-Series Blocks.