Ultimate 350z LS Swap Guide

04/18/202318th April, 2023
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Are you the proud owner of a 350z and looking to take it to the next level? There are certainly worse engines out there than the VQ35, but the LS has heaps of potential.

350z ls swap

With the ever-increasing prices of popular JDM drift platforms such as the S-chassis, there’s no surprise that enthusiasts are hunting down the perfect reasonably priced car to throw down sideways.

As much as it pains us to admit it, gone are the days of finding a $1,000 240SX that needs fixing up before rubbing doors with your buddies at the track.

Even if you did decide to empty your pockets and pay the scene tax, you’re likely to be left with a rusting shell that has a destroyed KA which has spent its years being bounced off the rev limiter.

While there are many excellent beginner drift car alternatives out there and plenty more epic cars which can be had on a budget, there’s no doubt that the 350Z is becoming increasingly tempting for its bargain price tag.

chevy ls engine swap

It offers great looks on the outside and has a stylish, modern interior and many of the comforts you’d expect from a modern car in a sleek, refined package.

Created by Nissan in 2002, the Z33 was their return to the sports-car game after ceasing production of the 300ZX six years earlier. It immediately took the market by storm, which is all the better for buyers, with many reasonably-priced options featured on the used marketplace.

With the modern-day 370Z entering the game, they’re currently out of the price range for most drift enthusiasts, so we will look at one way of maximizing the true potential of its older sibling in the form of a controversial V8 swap.

Now, don’t get us wrong here, both the VQ35DE and HR are fantastic engines, and with supercharging and twin-turbocharging being an option, they can become a real weapon.

However, we’ve witnessed first-hand how expensive aftermarket forced induction on a stock engine can become. It is undoubtedly a solid choice if you’re lucky enough to have deep pockets.

But what if you want to stir up a little controversy, create stupendous amounts of noise, and have enough power to comfortably throw it down sideways at the track while maintaining reliability?

LS-swapping is certainly nothing new, and 350z owners have been doing it since the early 2000s, but with today’s off-the-shelf products, it’s more affordable and convenient than ever.

Sure, you’re going to upset your JDM fanboy buddies while you feel the need to scream ‘LS THE WORLD!’, but you’ll soon forget about that when you’ve got a smoke trail billowing from the rear tires, and you can comfortably make the round trip to the local track day without breaking down.

Why are the LS engines so popular?

LS1 motors have been around since the early 90s, and this notorious, affordable block has been swapped into just about everything imaginable since. They’ve since become the most commonly-swapped variant for 350z’s and also the most convenient.

One of the best features of the LS engine is the ability to swap over parts from other LSx variations, providing cheap and effective upgrades.

For example, simply fitting an LS2 head onto your LS1 essentially creates an LS6 engine, providing better flow as it squeezes out additional ponies. Result!

With either a lightweight, all-aluminium or the heavier cast-iron LS1 block offering, both would soon become immensely popular in almost every form of motorsport worldwide. The eventual capabilities have proven insane horsepower figures, with some tuners hitting the 1,400hp mark.

To obtain these crazy horsepower figures, you might want to check out our LS1 turbo kit guide.

Sure, you’ll need to throw some serious cash at it to get anywhere near these figures. Still, just like the VQ, there are forced induction or stroker possibilities if you wish to achieve immense power, whether now or further down the line when that lust for more power begins rearing its ugly head again.

drifting 350z

Once you’ve added all of the bolt-on mods available for a naturally aspirated LS1, you can expect to get around 420hp, which is more than capable of spinning up the tires and putting a massive grin on your face in the 350z.

If you’ve been offered a cheap LS2, it’s certainly worth considering. You can check out our thoughts in our LS1 vs LS2 guide.

This great video from TampaBay Builds provides a great summary on modifying the LS1 if you’re considering doing so:

Which cars came with the LS1 from the factory?

GM’s LS1 engines were produced between the 97 and 04 model years in the U.S. and into 05 on the international market. If you’re looking to bag yourself a cheap LS1, they can be found in the following cars:

  • Chevrolet Corvette C5
  • Chevrolet Camaro
  • Pontiac Firebird
  • Pontiac GTO

Is the LS1 the best choice?

The LS1 is undoubtedly a fantastic powerplant, but the selection of cars GM placed them within certainly leaves a lot desired in the quest for a solid handling chassis, which is why the far lighter, nimble 350z is the perfect, affordable base for your upcoming project, especially given its price range.

350z ls swap bay

Of course, if you have big bucks to spend, there are plenty more insane LS engines available, and if you’re looking for significant power figures, then the more expensive choices are capable of 700hp straight out of the box. Or crate, for that matter.

To keep this guide simple, we’ll stick with the mighty LS1 and show you precisely what must be done to make your V8 transition as smooth as possible. With the same blocks being used for all of the LSx series, chances are this will fit others too, but it’s worth double-checking first.

Let’s take a look at what we need for your 350z LS swap

Thankfully, our friends at Enjuku Racing have provided everything you’re going to need to slide the LS1 into your shiny engine bay (you have cleaned it up before it goes in, right?!).

ISR Performance 350z LS/T56 Swap Mount Kit

350z ls swap transmission

Our comment: Now that you’ve removed your VQ and your LS1 is eager to enter its new home, you will need something along the lines of the ISR Performance LS / T56 Swap Mounts for the Nissan 350Z Z33 kit.

This is ISR Performance’s one-stop solution to getting the LS mounted into your Z33 chassis, and it does so incredibly well.

Their provided urethane engine mounts and transmission mount bushings dampen the engine vibration without being overly stiff, which is the perfect answer for daily driven and track cars.

Utilizing a small base mount pedestal and separate mount bracket, these mounts can pivot to provide the perfect fitment and easy installation to your subframe.

Also included in this kit is the ISR T56 350z shifter relocation kit for those intending to stick with the stock LS1 T56 transmission, allowing it to fit into the factory position on the 350z.

However, the OEM CD008/009 gearboxes may be a better shout, so we’ll also show you what’s required if you wish to go with the modern alternative further down.

If you want to buy the complete kit, you can add the ISR high ground clearance design headers, which bolt to the stock 35z Y-pipe location to keep your existing exhaust setup and save scraping the bottom of the car.

However, if you’re also looking to upgrade your exhaust setup while you’re there, you’ll want to check out our 350z Y-pipes and exhaust guides!

On top of this, the final option in the Enjuku package deal also includes the oil pan you’ll need eventually, which we’ll also discuss below.

As you can imagine, buying the package deal comes at an unbeatable price, so we highly recommend doing that if you intend to buy them all anyway.

Transmission

ISR Performance Transmission Adapter – LSx to 350Z CD00x

350z ls swap transmission

Our comment: This kit is perfect for mating any Gen III/IV LS engine to the factory 350z transmission to save you from needing the GM T56.

Also included in this kit are a billet aluminium flywheel and hi-torque starter.

This also allows for a 350z clutch kit to be used, which is super convenient if you’ve already upgraded your clutch. It may be a perfect opportunity if you’ve not upgraded this yet. We’ve covered the best in the market in our 350z clutch guide to help narrow the selection!

Here’s everything that’s included in the kit:

  • Billet Transmission Adapter Plate
  • Billet Aluminum Flywheel
  • Hi-Torque Starter
  • Starter Heat Shield
  • Pilot bushing
  • Shifter Bracket
  • Linkage adapter
  • Flywheel Bolts
  • Dowel Pins

Collins Adapters – LS/VQ Adapter Plate

350z ls swap adapter

Our comment: If you’re purely looking for an adapter plate, Collins Adapters offers an alternative that allows you to retain all of the LS1’s stock clutch and flywheel components.

You must cut the existing bell housing from your CD00x transmission and bolt the adapter plate to the LSX bell housing. This then bolts to the LS transmission.

This kit has a clutch disc, a new input shaft seal, every required bolt, and a pilot-bearing adapter.

You must ensure you’ve got the correct bell housing, flywheel, pressure plate, and T56 slave cylinder.

ISR Performance LS1 T56 Transmission Shifter Extension Relocation Kit

350z ls swap shifter

Our comment: If you opt for GM’s OEM T56 gearbox, you’ll want to look at ISR Performance’s Transmission Shifter Extension Relocation Kit.

This enables the shifter to be extender to be moved -7 inches backward from its original T56 Camaro location so that it slots in nicely in the OEM position in your 350z.

Driveshaft

ISR Performance LS 350z Driveshaft

350z ls swap driveshaft

Our comment: Whether you’ve decided to opt for the CD00x OEM Nissan gearbox or the GM T56 for your build, the ISR driveshaft has you covered.

These steel or aluminium uprated shafts for the factory 6-speed or LS T56 gearboxes feature larger, replaceable, and greaseable u-joints capable of handling up to 650whp. This is perfect for most setups unless you intend to run substantial power figures.

Oil Pan

ISR Performance/Canton Racing Oil Pan Kit

350z ls swap sump

Our comment: The baffled oil pan kit is next on the must-have parts list. We’d highly recommend getting this in the package deal above to save some money for additional parts!

Created in a collaboration between ISR Performance and Canton Racing, you can count on being in good hands with this baffled oil pan, which helps to prevent oil starvation during heavy track use, or drifting.

This is for use with the ISR mount kit, so if you don’t opt for the other parts in the ISR/Enjuku kit, it’s worth checking if this will fit to avoid potential disappointment further down the line.

Headers

ISR Performance High Ground Clearance LS Headers

350z ls swap exhaust headers

Our comment: These awesome customized headers allow for higher ground clearance when fitting your LS1 and are produced from high-quality 304 stainless steel. These are once again designed to go with the rest of the ISR kit, and we highly recommend purchasing it along with that and the oil pan for maximum savings.

These are designed to fit your existing 350z exhaust setup, so you can settle with your current setup or get a shiny new one while you have everything already removed.

Wiring Harness

Wiring Specialties LSx Canbus Pro Series Wiring Harness

350z ls swap wiring harness

Our comment: Wiring is always one of engine swaps’ trickiest and most problematic aspects. However, the guys over at Wiring Specialties have had so many requests for 350z harnesses that they’ve produced this fantastic off-the-shelf setup!

This enables full functionality of your 350z interior and won’t cause any issues with CANbus in a convenient plug-and-play package. If you read any old threads online which state that the tacho, engine temp, or fault lights have been causing issues, you won’t need to worry about any of these issues with this awesome kit.

With many different accessories and variables to choose from in the selection process, we’re confident that the Wiring Specialties kit will be perfect for your needs.

For those of you that are lucky enough to be considering the LSX Gen IV swap, they’ve also answered your prayers with this kit.

Oil Filter Mounts

Canton Racing Remote Oil Filter Mounts

350z ls swap oil

Our comment: If you intend to use your LS-powered 350z for track racing, canyon runs, or drifting, we highly recommend opting for the remote oil filter mounts. These are also great for oil filter relocation.

This is designed for high-performance applications and includes two 1/2″ N.P.T. in and out ports. Unused ports can be used for a temperature or oil pressure sender.

Clutch Lines

Chase Bays 350z T56 Clutch Line

350z ls swap clutch lines

Our comment: For those intending to keep the T56 transmission and would like an improved pedal feel along with improved engine bay aesthetics, you’ll want to check out this Chase Bays Clutch Line.

This is perfect for withstanding the pressures of harsh driving and is made from 3AN stainless steel, which travels from the clutch master cylinder to the slave cylinder. This also includes a 16″ bleeder line which provides convenient bleeding.

Clutch Master Cylinder Kit

Sikky Swap Master Cylinder Conversion Kit LS1 350z

350z ls swap master

Our comment: If you want to get the most out of your clutch, Sikky has created this full kit, a perfect all-around clutch master cylinder conversion kit.

Featuring a CNC billet aluminium adapter plate, you also get a Wilwood 7/8″ master cylinder, stainless braided lines, and a Sikky adapter fitting, which threads into the factory GM slave cylinder without any modifications required.

On top of that, there’s also the bleeder line, custom bracket, and all required hardware and fittings.

The Sikky kit is a popular choice, and it’s easy to see why with its impressive quality and reasonable price tag.

Power Steering Line Kit

Sikky 350z LS1 Swap Power Steering Line Kit

350z ls swap steering

Our comment: The final puzzle piece for your LS swap is Sikky’s Power Steering Line Kit.

This fits LS1 & LS2 power steering reservoirs and allows for full adjustability with its swiveling design. This can withstand maximum durability and heat during high-temperature racing conditions and withstanding 48,000 PSI of pressure! This kit also includes the low-pressure power steering return line with clamps.

Performance Radiator

C&R Performance Radiator

350z ls swap radiator

Our comment: I know, I know… I stated that you’d already completed the puzzle! That’s because a stock 350Z radiator would be sufficient for a stock LS1 in typical daily driving situations.

However, an uprated radiator should be on your to-do list if you intend to hit the track or bounce off the redline in tire-shredding harmony.

Conclusion

There you have it! With a few minor additions, such as an air intake, you will be all set to fire up the V8 powerplant and experience ‘that’ LS roar for the first time. Well, hopefully!

Be warned that engine swaps require a lot of time and patience. They’re one of the most rewarding modifications in the long run, but the chances are that they will constantly test your limits.

This is why we’ve opted for these off-the-shelf parts that have had comprehensive R&D carried out and have been tried and tested over hundreds of thousands of miles.

350z ls swap engine bay

If you do happen to get stuck along the way, a quick owners club or Google search will undoubtedly find owners in the same position previously willing to offer a helping hand.

Thankfully, the 350z fits three 52mm gauges perfectly in the dashboard for you to keep an eye on the temperatures and ensure that everything is operating as it should be. Enjuku has an impressive selection for you to check out for that finishing touch!

You can rest easy knowing that should you now crave additional power in the future. The LS engine has many modifications all the way to forced induction for those ultimate-power setups!

ls2 350z

Now that you’ve finished your LS swap, it’s time to hit the track and shred those tires – you’ve earned it!

Thank you for reading our Nissan 350z LS Swap guide

We hope you’re now confident in choosing the right products for your needs to give your Nissan the powerplant it (arguably) deserves!

Photography credits

We want to thank the following sources for the use of their images:

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author avatar Written by

Joe is an avid writer and car enthusiast. When he's not cruising the streets alongside his friends in his Nissan Silvia S15, he's drifting on his VR racing simulator.

Joe's passion for cars is always on display. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the automotive industry, he hopes his writing conveys his excitement and knowledge of cars and games.

Joe's work has been featured on many platforms including drivetribe.com, 180sx.club, carthrottle.com, smartdrivinggames.com, databox.com and ceoblognation.com.

When he's not behind the wheel or at his keyboard, he's likely daydreaming of his ultimate ride - the legendary Lexus LFA.

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