5.3L LS (LM7) Swap Into a '72 Chevy Nova - Magazine Article, Nov 2009
November 2009 magazine feature 'Modernized' on swapping a 5.3L Vortec LM7 (LS) engine into a 1972 Nova: 325ci cast-iron 5.3L vs 346ci 5.7, 3.78 in. bore, 3.62 in. stroke, approx $4,635 cost.
This is the opening page of a November 2009 magazine article titled "MODERNIZED!" about transplanting a 5.3L LS engine into a 1972 Chevrolet Nova, written by Henry De Los Santos with photos by David Stoker. The page features a large photo of a salvage-yard Vortec 5300 (LM7) engine with intake, alternator, fan clutch, and exhaust manifolds visible. A "Quick Notes" sidebar summarizes the project: upgraded to a modern-day powerplant, "definitely doable," approximate cost $4,635. The article explains that the cast-iron 5.3L LM7 was introduced in 1999 in trucks such as the Tahoe, Silverado, Suburban, Avalanche, and 2WD Escalade, with a 3.78-inch bore (vs. 3.90 for the 346ci LS) and shared 3.62-inch stroke (325ci vs. 346ci), plus a mention of the aluminum L33 in '05-07 4WD Silverados. Builder David Stoker bought a low-mileage 5.3L with harness, computer, and injectors for $750, and the matching 4L60E transmission brought the total to $1,300. A Turn Key Engine Supply LS conversion kit was used for the swap, with advice to call Turn Key for your specific application. Readers learn LM7 basics, typical salvage pricing, and the general scope of an at-home LS swap.
This document covers 2009, which may differ from this 2004 Aston Martin Virage.
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Frequently asked questions
- What engine is being swapped into the '72 Nova?
- A cast-iron 5.3L Vortec 5300, also known as the LM7, purchased low-mileage from a local salvage yard for $750, along with its original 4L60E transmission for a $1,300 total.
- What is the approximate total cost of the LS swap project?
- The Quick Notes sidebar lists the approximate cost as $4,635.
- How does the 5.3L LM7 compare to the 346ci LS?
- The LM7 has a slightly smaller 3.78-inch bore versus 3.90 for the LS, with both sharing a 3.62-inch stroke—325ci versus 346ci.
- What vehicles came with the LM7 5.3L engine?
- The article says it was introduced in 1999 in truck platforms including the Tahoe, Silverado, Suburban, Avalanche, and two-wheel-drive Escalade.
- What conversion kit was used for the LS transplant?
- A Turn Key Engine Supply LS conversion kit; the article advises calling Turn Key directly since kits vary by application.
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