Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

It just dawned on me that most common Vortec swaps do not involve the use of dual fuel tanks. So I'm wondering how y'all set up your dual tanks? Did you run a separate pump for each tank? Wired to the stock switch just like OEM?

So come on, spill the beans! :lol:

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

I'm guessing, using fuel delivery parts from a 87

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Already have that in place, HuggerCST installed the TBI complete from an 87. I'm more wondering about specific pumps(s) [internal or external], regulator(s), plumbing, etc.

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

You may go over to LS1tech.com. I hear they have a great section over there dedicated to swapping into non LS motor cars, and trucks.

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

On my way! Thanks!

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

on my 85 i put an electric fuel pump right after the valve to switch tanks, works fine for me.

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Not a vortec, but I have an engine with a ramjet intake and a megasquirt computer in my 84 K10. I have 87 tanks and sending units, 89 camaro fuel pumps (one per tank) and a high pressure valve I got from JC Whitney. It's made by pollak just like the original one was, but it is rated for 80 psi. The switch for the tanks (and what turns the right pump on) is from an 87 too.

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

By switch, are you meaning the electric switch in the cab?

What type of fittings are you using on the valve to keep the fuel lines from blowing off due to the high pressure? Are you just using regular hose clamps, or are you using something else?

This is the valve I found at JC Whitney, sounds like the same one:

http://www.jcwhitney.com/wcsstore/jc...12705_CL_1.jpg

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

I found this on S&P's web site, good info:

http://www.hotrodlane.cc/77chevytruck/77chevy.htm

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

between the switching valve and the engine?

that would seem to be the easiest option.....

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

I don't have much info as far as fuel setup. I would think an electric pump set up like I have in mine would work.
Tanks--->Switch valve--->Electric pump--->Up front.

Gearstar seems to have awesome setups for the 4L60E. I priced out a full standalone kit with everything for the Biscayne for $3,500. And that is with computer, cooler, fluid, stick, mount, lock up converter, level 2 tranny...everything! I know you wont need the computer but you may check them out. Great service too. Call me later about it.

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

I think I have it figured out now. Since I already have in-tank pumps, I will jump switch out pumps to an AC Delco EP 241 or possible the Walbro 255. Although since Walbro sold the pump unit I have been reading a lot of bad news about their product since then. And they have a "low price in lieu of warranty" policy now.

I've ordered the above switch valve, and figured out what type of hose and clamps to use.

Not nearly as difficult as I thought. This should be a lot easier too since I will be using a returnless system on the engine.

Thanks for all the replies! :metal:

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Oops, I started to post, then went to lunch, then came back and finished. So I missed your post! :lol:

From what I have read over on ls1trucks.com and performancetrucks.net, the guys who tried that with a Vortec have had problems, but with TBI it's not a big deal. Mainly because of the psi the Vortec's need (TBI ~13, Vortec ~58-62), and some issues with the return too.

So far from what I've read, the AC Delco in-tank pumps along with the upgraded high psi switching valve have proven themselves worthy.

Oh, and my trans will be about $900 to my door. :metal:

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

So you just need engine and computer now?

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Engine and trans are lined up, it's just a matter of waiting until payday. They will be on a truck August 3.

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Yep. The switch next to the ashtray.

Sounds like you already figured it out, but I'm using fuel injection hose clamps and fuel injection rated fuel line for all the soft connections (everywhere that isn't the original metal line).

That looks like the one.

The nice thing about that valve is that it is plug and play with an 81 and up harness and can take the constant voltage (rather than momentary) like the original 87 (only) setup. This lets you keep the original look in the cab by using the 87 selector switch.

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

So is the 85 switch different from the 87 switch?

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

yes the 87 fuel tank selector switch is different than the 85

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Copy that! I'll be ordering one tomorrow!

Thanks :metal:

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Forgot about the AC Delco EP 241 thats the one I was thinking of for a stock high pressure pump.

Sounds like your moving fast!

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

The plans are moving fast, I won't actually have the engine until next month. And I'm not even going to start until the snow starts flying. But I am researching EVERYTHING I can now so I have as few surprises as possible when the time comes. Hopefully all the planning makes it go as smooth as possible.

Now, if you know anything about rebuilding the door hinges, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE jump on this thread and help a brother out! :haha: I'm stuck!

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

You can swap the fuel pumps and switch out now; the regulator will send back the excess fuel. It made a world of difference in my 82 Corvette with CFI (similar to TBI, but with 2 throttle bodies).

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

I need to check the fuel pressure to the TBI anyhow, I still think it is low. I may go ahead and do that and swap them soon, it's not really that much $$$.

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Bob, all this talk of high pressure fuel lines, fuel pumps, and ls motors has got me in a frazzle. been searching craigslist everyday since you started all this;) you need to stop now:lol: BEFORE im homeless AND divorced!!!

Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it?
 

Just slowly turn around and quietly walk the other way. Nothing to see here :haha: