5.3 LS ENGINE SWAP?

[WILLFISH2]

I am looking to swap a 5.3 LS into a J10 and use a T15 transmission. I understand there is an issue with the flywheel on these engines for a manual transmission. Anyone done this type of transplant? If so, what flywheel/clutch did you use. I'm trying not to spend $350.00 for a Novak flywheel.

[rang-a-stang]

I have not. But here are some good links to peruse. Hopefully you have seen these already.

https://www.novak-adapt.com/knowledge/engines/swap-guides/chevy-buick-gm/fsj-swap/

https://www.novak-adapt.com/catalog/adapters/engine-to-transmission/gm/jeep-t18-bh-adapters/kit-1415/

http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?t=159367

[yossarian19]

IIRC the issue is that the flywheel's machined friction area on an LS flywheel and the OD / ID of old school clutches don't exactly match, so you don't engage 100% of the clutch's friction area.
Most of the LS manual trans vehicles ran a 26 spline clutch that won't work on old-school 10 spline transmissions, obviously.
So a lot of companies make adapter flywheels and clutches to marry them.
I don't know for sure but I just looked at the Summit web site, asked for clutches for Gen III / IV (LS) motors, selected 10 spline and came up with a range of 10 spline + 1 1/8" shaft clutches that are built with an LS flywheel in mind. Like, service replacement clutches for early LS engines that came in trucks with 10 spline transmissions. This should be the ticket, or at least I can't see why it wouldn't work.
But then, why is Novak making an aftermarket solution?
Dunno, but I would check specs and make sure there isn't an OEM parts solution.
I ran an auto in my LS swap, so trust that I read about this but verify before you buy.