Considering 944 LS Swap

I've recently restored an '86 944 Turbo race car that was very competitive in its day, then basically sat in a field for 15 years. First road test revealed serious issues with the engine, all of which can be resolved, but I am thinking maybe I just swap to LS instead. Would be looking at installing a +/-350hp motor, not looking for a beast.

I am concerned about the complexity and cost of an LS swap. The car is in Petaluma, CA. I am wondering if there is anyone local who has a ton of experience doing these swaps, and can give me guidance here. I have access to a shop and a pro tech, though I don't have to go that route. Mostly I think I am looking for a consultant. I am very happy to pay such a person for their time, it will be cheaper than the cost of making mistakes on the build!

Please hit me up if you're that guy, or you've got a suggestion. 415-271-2996, [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Thanks!

-Riccardo

Hi Riccardo

Welcome to the forum and to the LS game. You will love the car with an LS. It's the way Porsche should have built it.

I have built several of these cars for clients. There are many quirks to building one and many options. Since yours is a track car, it's a much simpler build.

As far as having one built, it's not cheap. If you can do the work yourself or have someone willing to help, then it will save you thousands in labor cost. An average client pay LS swap for a street car is around $17-20k depending on engine chosen, and mods done to the engine. The better engines can make the cost go up a lot.
For a track car, it's probably closer to $14-16k. Swap kit parts generally run about $6-9K plus engine and exhaust system.

If you decide to take on the project yourself, I would be glad to help you with consulting. I have helped several members here over the years. There are several people here that know these swaps well and most are willing to help with info as needed.

Greetings Riccardo,

I agree with Bob!  There are many seasoned veterans here on this forum that are happy to provide guidance. Their help is quite priceless.  

I've been on my LS-1 conversion adventure since 2014 and now that I'm retired, I’m pulling out all the stops to wrap up my project this summer and find my way to the track.

Over the years, I've tried my best to document my LS-1 build (cost included) and the conversion process with all the conversion components (again including costs).  I have a copy of the Greg Sloan conversion manual which is a good base line but the good folks on this forum have helped me tremendously with all the details and modern advances, and I have tried to share what I’ve learned from them.

If you’re still debating making the swap, just think how it would feel driving a car with about a 7#/HP ratio or better…  that’s my motivation!

Thanks Ray!

Well since my post I've bit the bullet and my 944 LS conversion is already underway! I bought the kit from Kent and bought an L33 from A&A out of Florida, and am sourcing all the other bits and am getting tons of help from a knowledgeable forum member. So cool!