Which ECM should you use on your LS swap? OE or Aftermarket?

Trying to hit the high points on the different, current ECM options for LS Swaps on Gen 3 engines.

[MegaAndroyd]

Stopped it at 1:58. "Stock is good enough." Sold. Thanks. Saved me $

[tngtacticalmiata]

Don't sell yourself short, man.
Some of us engineers recognize when there's people that just simply know more than we do about their chosen field of expertise.
I've designed freeze dryers. That doesn't make me an expert in LS engine tuning.
So, before I go wasting money blowing something up from sheer arrogance I come and watch vids from guys like you.

[munishpersaud]

Although I still have many questions, you have clarified so much for me and made this swap seem much more possible!

[sxsl]

Blowing people's minds as usual.
Always impressed.
Keep going! We need your videos!

[deankay]

With the "Tuner" programs out there, I prefer to stick with a "Matched Set" of components. As The DriveWay Engineering points out, having a matched TAC, DBW pedal and ECM is one of the best routes to go. GM spend millions of dollars for engineering a solid product that is capable of under-hood heat and vibration. If placed inside in your swap is even better. Too many post on vehicle forums have guys who got into many issue with mix and match and having to stat over. The OEM parts are everywhere, from the bone yard to RockAuto. If you are new to this level of working on vehicles, do your research, make a plan, think ahead on what you want. Learn how to solder, shrink tube your splices, properly remove terminals and install. Draw out the wiring diagram to figure out placement of modules for ease of access. Determine the length of harness and follow proper fuse protection, including the use of relays. Make it clear to your tuner, like JR, for donor vehicle, VIN, tranny, gear ratio, tires size, cooling fans, cruise control of no cruise. All of these things will reduce you headaches and create an enjoyable experience with the satisfaction of doing it your self. As a retired ASE Master, I have seen too many people do what they thought was right and pop fuses, open circuits and have no digital volt, ohms meter, nor who to do voltage drop. JR is providing a basic service in his explanation of what is out there and how bad it will hurt you wallet. Plus knowing what works, begins with research, as in his video. Plan it out, get a 3 ring note book and plastic page protectors and draw out you ideas. Create a wiring diagram and notes + photos of the modules & parts being used for future reference. It is creating your own service manual for the "One-Off" that you are building. A blind hog finds the corn once & awhile, but don't be that guy. It take the fun out of it!
Nice information The Driveway Engineer. Good job from an ASE Master Tech (Imports / GM)

[russellgovett]

I have an 70 impala that I want to complete a swap in but have had tons of questions. I found your channel today and have watched three videos and hit that sub and bell button. These videos are EXACTLY what I needed as I’m a family man with a passion and a budget!!!! Thank you, please keep making videos please !

[obfuscated]

Don't forget to remove the ECM connector and look for burnt pins before taking it home! I forgot and now get to exchange an ECM which is no big deal where I salvage but might be for some folks. When I get just an ECM I cut off the harness connectors for more parts and because I give my bros bench harnesses. Left in place they protect the ECM pins in storage.

[malcomjohnson]

Thanks for all the info it helps me a lot I have never done a large swap.but I am gonna put a ls in my 94 short bed Chevy, thanks again for the info and I will be watching you. And listening to you, have a great day

[davebarron]

Man these vids are great appreciate it. I have a LQ9 complete, running (low oil pressure) in 2003 1 ton van with 400K miles. I plan on purchasing LQ9 long block (with 100K), and putting all my accessories, intake, wiring, starter, etc. etc on and transplanting into my 83 Camaro. Thanks again.

[johnclary]

Looking for info on putting an LS in my T-bucket for Goodguys autocross, this has been a good resource. From what I'm finding out any healthy 5.3 will be more than enough to spin the tires through first gear, anywhere in first gear up to torque peak. Talking 1800 pound car with 9 inch 200 treadwear tires. So this series has been a major time and money saver for me.

[jamesfowler]

I am all new to this LS stuff. Im putting together a 408 lq4 with a muncie 4spd. In my 66 nova. Should be potent. Im learning along the way. I think the Holley efi might be my choice since I will eventually using twin turbo setup. Love this tech stuff. Thanks.

[johnelliott]

P.S. love your videos and input it is so educational and straight to the point and that is why I like it. No bs and to the point.

[Republican_Extremest]

the Holly Computer setup has alot of positives. Yeah it's a bit pricey but you can control shift points, RPMs fuel maps, timing, run your water pump, fans etc.... apples to oranges I guess

[BigWood]

Excellent information, I think you could have cut the time in half. Watch it yourself. I do appreciate your time and knowledge.

[Republican_Extremest]

Subbed and smacked the like. I wish I still lived in Michigan.. grew up in Pellston, Petoskey, Alpena, Cheboygan, now stuck on the yuck.. Columbus, Ohio

[TheProchargedmopar]

I recently bought the efisource micro, harness, coil igniter, and stepper adaptor.
Having a video on how to manually shift the 80e would be sweet.
The classic car needs overdrive.
I’m enjoying this basics series and all the low buck options presented.

[johnelliott]

Glad to see you got the pups involved. My debate is my truck is a, 99 Silverado and I have been having issues with the instrument cluster and minor ground issues. It has all the bells and whistles like heated seats, mirrors, power everything and then some. Wanted to rebuild my transmission to handle 400-500 at most. Want to drive everyday and be able to get on it and have a little weekend fun with it after I am done. Your thoughts are welcome and thank you for your advice and time

[kevingore]

used micrsquirt all the time the trans controller they have works really well

[gloriamaletta]

I've seen some custom tuned by a good tuner with stock electronics that make a very big difference in horsepower and torque throughout the entire rpm range and make a noticeable difference that can be felt in the seat of your pant and l have a MSD LS in a carbureted LS since 2008 it has been trouble free and works extremely well

[kimble]

Great video. Lots of good info here. Thanks for sharing JR.