Heads up! This page is a work in progress as we add more details and refine each section. Check back often for the latest updates, and thanks for your patience as we build out this LS swap guide to make it as helpful as possible!

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Thinking about swapping an LS into your E9X BMW? You’re in the right place. This guide breaks down everything you’ll need to get the job done, from the big components down to the small details that make all the difference.

Each section covers a major system—engine, cooling, fuel, and more—with a simple checklist to keep things straightforward. Let’s dive in and make sure you’ve got everything lined up to bring serious V8 power to your BMW.

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Engine

Engine Selection: Any LS Engine Can Fit Your E9X

One of the biggest advantages of the LS family is that all LS engines share the same external dimensions and mounting locations. This means you can use virtually any LS engine—from an LS1 to an LS7 or even a truck-based LQ4—and it will bolt up to the same mounting points in your E9X chassis. Regardless of the LS variant you choose, this section covers the key components and sensors needed to make it work in your BMW. So, you have the flexibility to pick the LS that best fits your performance goals and budget, knowing it will fit right in.

Component Checklist:

• Long Block: Block, rotating assembly, cylinder heads
• Front cover
• Rear cover
• valve covers

Oil Pan

Our swap mounts were developed around the 302-2 and 302-1 type oil pans. These low-profile, rear sump pans clear the 2WD subframe without hanging below it.

• E9x/8x RWD Options:302-1 and 302-2 style pans fit best. The 302-1 provides clearance for a turbo hot side between the oil pan and K-member.
• E9x/8x xDrive Options: xDrive cars offer more room, allowing for options like the factory LS3 pan, F-body pan, and other compatible RWD options.

Component Checklist:

• Oil pan assembly
• Hardware
• Oil cooler or block off
• Oil filter
• RTV sealant

Starter

Standard LS starter will clear our engine mounts but the later model LS starters are slightly shorter and recommended. A 2008 silverado starter is a good choice because it has a simple bolt on style solenoid wire connection.  A later model LS starter with plug type connector may also be used with a pigtail connector

 Component Checklist:

• Starter
• LS starter pigtail for solenoid
• Starter bolts 
• Wire required for main power wire (2ga+)

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Accessory Drive

Spacing Overview

• Step 1: Understand and choose your accessory drive spacing, which refers to the distance between the engine's crankshaft pulley and block. Choose if you will be using the LSE9x accessory drive, the LSE9x Sanden AC drive or other drive combination.

Recommendations:

• Corvette and F-body spacing provide better accessibility and space for boosted applications.

Note the following part numbers have many variations and any matching combinations cab be used this is simply a reference.

Corvette Spacing

• Water Pump: ACDELCO 252-846 (C5 style)
• Tensioner: ACDELCO 38194
• Crank Pulley: ACDELCO 12674582

Camaro/F-Body Spacing

• Water Pump: ACDELCO 252-846
• Tensioner: ACDELCO 38195
• Crank Pulley: ACDELCO 12553118

Truck/SUV Spacing

• Water Pump: ACDELCO 251-734
• Tensioner: ACDELCO 12628025
• Crank Pulley: ACDELCO 12675620

Our billet tensioner l99 relocation kit can be used with the l99 tensioner to add addition intake clearance around the tensioner. 

Alternator

The stock BMW E9x chassis uses a 180-amp alternator, while a standard factory LS alternator typically outputs only 105-165 amps, which is insufficient for the BMW’s power needs. The BMW chassis is highly power-demanding due to its numerous modules, electric fans, and fuel pumps, which makes a higher-output alternator essential.

• Recommended: A 220-amp LS-style alternator is recommended to ensure stable charging and system reliability. This upgraded alternator helps avoid low-voltage issues, which can cause erratic behavior in various BMW modules, especially under high electrical load conditions.

Air Conditioning

For LS swaps in the E9x chassis, you have two main options for the air conditioning system:

• GM AC Compressor and Mounts: You can use a factory GM AC compressor with compatible mounts. This setup requires additional modifications and custom fittings to integrate with the BMW AC system, making it a viable but more involved option.
• LSe9x Sanden AC Drive: This system is designed for a streamlined, plug-and-play installation using a Sanden AC compressor. It offers full passenger-side clearance, ideal for turbo setups, and is compatible with our custom  LSE9X plug and play AC lines and LSE9X AC adapter fittings. These components integrate seamlessly with the BMW AC system, making it a straightforward swap without the need for custom modifications, ensuring optimal fit and function.

Component Checklist:

• Accessory brackets kit
• Crank pulley
• Water pump and tensioner
• Alternator 220 amp ad244 style
  • Alternator Trigger wire
  • Main power and ground wire
• Power steering pump: with associated lines and reservoir
• Ac compressor - Sanden 508 compressor 
  • Associated lines and fittings

Accessory Drive Hardware

• Crank Bolt - GM LS Crank bolt - ARP LS crank bolt 
• Water Pump Bolts: 6 x M8-1.25 x 80mm
• Thermostat Housing Bolts: 2 x M6-1.00 x 20mm
• Thermostat 
• Belt Tensioner Bolts

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Intake System

Component Checklist:

• Intake Manifold: Options include LS1, LS6, LS2, BTR Equalizer, and Holley Low Ram (may not clear stock fan).
• Throttle Body: Drive-by-wire; choose based on intake compatibility.

Intake Manifold Plumbing

• Brake Booster: Large hose connects intake to BMW brake booster.
• Vacuum Lines: Large cam setups may require a vacuum pump for consistent brake assist.
• PCV System: Varies based on build; stock plumbing for naturally aspirated builds, catch can recommended for boosted setups.

Sensors

• MAP Sensor: Match the sensor to your intake and wiring harness.
• Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor

Gaskets

• Intake Manifold Gaskets
• Throttle Body Gasket

Intake Tube and Filter

• Common setup:

• 90° silicone coupler
• 4” 45° aluminum tube bend
• 4” cone filter

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Ignition system

Component Checklist:

• Coils
• Coil mounting brackets and hardware
• Spark plug wires
• Spark plugs
• Heat management

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Fuel System

Please refer to our fuel system page for a more detailed description of fuel system options. Modify checklist based on your system

Component Checklist:

• Fuel pump
• Fuel lines
• Fuel filter
• Fuel regulator
• Fuel injectors: match connector to harness
  • injector connector choice should fit harness

• ev1, ev6, multi tech….
• Check intake O-ring size for low injector o ring
• Ls3 intake uses larger lower o ring than ls1
• Length must correspond to fuel rail choice
• Fuel Rails
  • Gm fuel rails use 3/8 male quick connect fitting
• Fuel rail to fit intake an injector application
• Fuel rail inlet plumbing/adapter

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Exhaust System

Component Checklist:

RWD Options

• LSe9x Long Tubes
• CX Racing LS Swap E90 Headers
• Gen 5 Camaro Exhaust Manifolds
• Summit Racing/Generic V Band and 2-Bolt Cast Exhaust Manifolds

xDrive Options

• Gen 5 Camaro Exhaust Manifolds
• Summit Racing/Generic V Band and 2-Bolt Cast Exhaust Manifolds
• Exhaust system from header/manifold to back of car
• Exhaust hardware and gaskets

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Cooling System

The stock BMW radiator is generally sufficient for most LS swaps, with two primary versions:

• Turbo Models: Smaller, shorter radiator, leaving space for the factory intercooler. This version may have lower cooling capacity compared to the full-height version.
• Non-Turbo Models and M3: Full-height radiator with increased capacity. If not using the stock intercooler location, you can upgrade to this version along with a full-height fan, which is a straightforward bolt-in swap.
• Aftermarket Options: Full aluminum versions of both radiators are available on our website. The triple-pass aluminum M3 radiator offers the highest cooling capacity in a factory-style fitment.

Component Checklist:

• Radiator
• Fan - stock is ideal!
• Should - stock is ideal!
• Upper radiator hose
• Lower radiator hose
• Heater hose and connections

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Transmission

Selecting the right transmission is crucial for your LS swap into the E9X BMW chassis. Below is a breakdown of compatible transmission options and key considerations for each.

While the transmissions listed below are among the most commonly used, many other transmissions can be adapted for an LS swap into the E9X chassis.

Compatible Transmissions:

1. T56/TR6060 Manual Transmissions

   • Overview: These robust manual transmissions are favored for their performance capabilities.

   • Mounting: Our swap kits include crossmembers specifically designed for these transmissions, ensuring proper fitment.

   • Notes: Ensure the use of a suitable bellhousing and clutch assembly for seamless integration.

2. 4L80E Automatic Transmission

   • Overview: Known for its strength, the 4L80E is suitable for high-power applications.

   • Mounting: Installation requires minor chassis trimming to clear the pan and transmission connector. Our kit provides a dedicated crossmember for this transmission.

3. TH400 Automatic Transmission

   • Overview: A durable 3-speed option favored in drag racing scenarios.

   • Mounting: Compatible with our swap kits; verify crossmember compatibility.

   • Notes: Consider the impact of fewer gears on highway drivability.

4. 4L60E Automatic Transmission

   • Overview: A lighter-duty option compared to the 4L80E, suitable for moderate power levels.

   • Mounting: Compatible with our swap kits; confirm crossmember compatibility.

   • Notes: Assess the transmission's power handling capabilities relative to your engine's output.

5. BMW GS6-53BZ Manual Transmission (335i 6-Speed)

   • Overview: The GS6-53BZ transmission from a rear-wheel-drive 335i can be used for this swap.

   • Mounting: When paired with an LS engine using LSE90 mounts in the forward-most position and a PMC adapter, the transmission aligns with the automatic transmission position.

   • Driveshaft Compatibility: Use an automatic 335i driveshaft. This setup allows compatibility with the automatic transmission crossmember or the LSE9X DCT crossmember with adjustment.

   • Adapter Plate: The adapter plate for this setup can be purchased from Drift HQ. Look for the "LS -> N54 GS6-53BZ Adapter Kit."

   • Clutch Options: PMC offers two flywheel options with the LS -> N54 adapter kit:

     • 240mm flywheel designed for stock-style clutches. Pair it with a 550i or 335is clutch for standard performance.

     • 184mm flywheel for triple-disk or twin-disk clutches, ideal for high-performance setups.

   • Notes: While the GS6-53BZ is a solid option, the 328i 6-speed transmission is not recommended due to additional complications.

6. AR5 Manual Transmission

   • Overview: The AR5 transmission, found in Pontiac Solstice and Chevrolet Colorado, can be adapted to the LS engine.

   • Mounting: Requires an adapter plate to mate with the LS bellhousing pattern.

   • Crossmember Compatibility: Customers have successfully used our T56/TR6060 crossmember with this transmission.

   • Shifter Positioning: Care must be taken to ensure the shifter location is similar to an F-body T56 for proper alignment with the chassis.

7. CD009 Manual Transmission

   • Overview: The CD009, found in Nissan 350Z and some Infiniti G35 models, is a budget-friendly high-performance option for LS swaps.

   • Mounting: Requires a specific adapter plate to mate with the LS engine.

   • Crossmember Compatibility: Can be used with our T56/TR6060 crossmember.

   • Shifter Positioning: Proper adjustment of the shifter position is necessary to ensure alignment with the chassis similar to an F-body T56.

8. 8HP Automatic Transmission

   • Overview: The 8HP series automatic transmission can be used with an adapter and aftermarket controls such as Turbo Lamik or MaxxECU.

   • Mounting: The LSE9X DCT crossmember works for this application when paired with an appropriate adapter mount on the transmission side.

   • Electronic Control: Requires standalone transmission control for proper operation, with options available from Turbo Lamik and MaxxECU.

   • Notes: This transmission provides a modern automatic option with fast shifts and high power-handling capabilities.

9. 6L80E Automatic Transmission

   • Overview: A popular 6-speed automatic transmission used in many GM vehicles, capable of handling moderate to high power levels.

   • Can be controlled using Holley Terminator with 6l80e control

   • Crossmember Compatibility: Our TH400 crossmember can be used for the 6L80E

   • Notes: Provides a good balance between performance and highway drivability due to its gearing and overdrive functionality.

Component Checklist:

• Transmission Crossmember: Ensure you have the correct crossmember for your chosen transmission.

• Transmission Mount: Use a GM-style rubber transmission mount; a Prothane mount is recommended.

• Driveshaft: A custom-length driveshaft may be required to connect the selected transmission to the BMW differential.

• Shifter Assembly: Verify that the shifter location aligns with the E9X chassis. Aftermarket short-throw shifters or relocation kits may be necessary for optimal ergonomics.

• Transmission Cooling: For automatic transmissions, incorporate an appropriate transmission cooler to maintain optimal operating temperatures.

• Electronic Controls: Automatic transmissions will require a transmission control unit (TCU) or integration with the engine management system for proper operation.

 

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Electrical System

• Basic Wiring Supplies

  • Fuel Pump Wiring and Relays: Dedicated relay and properly sized wiring to ensure stable voltage and reliable fuel pump operation.

  • Wire: Quality automotive-grade wire in various gauges for power, signal, and ground connections.

  • Large Gauge Wire: Essential for the alternator and starter connections to ensure proper power delivery.

  • Relays and Sockets: Used for controlling high-current components such as fuel pumps, fans, and ignition systems.

  • Connectors: Weatherproof and heat-resistant connectors to ensure reliable electrical connections.

  • Heat Shrink: Provides insulation and strain relief for soldered or crimped connections.

  • Sheathing and Loom: Protects wiring from abrasion and heat, keeping the engine bay organized.

  • Fuses and Fuse Holders: Protects circuits from overcurrent and potential shorts.

  • Block Grounds to Chassis: Secure grounding points between the engine block and chassis to ensure proper electrical flow and reduce interference.

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Driveline & Suspension

• Driveshaft: Custom length required for LS swaps.
• Adapters for stock bmw differential and transmission used

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Miscellaneous

• Heat Wrap or Shielding: Protects components near exhaust or turbo.
• PCM Mount: Provides a secure location for the Powertrain Control Module.
• Firewall Grommets: For routing custom wiring or hoses through the firewall.