Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

glock35ipsc · 07-14-2009, 03:59 PM

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!

flamingbig10 · 07-14-2009, 04:55 PM

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

glock35ipsc · 07-14-2009, 04:58 PM

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.

JohnC · 07-14-2009, 06:21 PM

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.

glock35ipsc · 07-14-2009, 06:51 PM

On my way! Thanks!

texasfunk · 07-14-2009, 11:33 PM

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

ElGracho · 07-15-2009, 12:03 AM

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.

glock35ipsc · 07-15-2009, 09:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ElGracho

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.

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:

glock35ipsc · 07-15-2009, 09:33 AM

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

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

joe231 · 07-15-2009, 01:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by texasfunk

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

between the switching valve and the engine?

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

Driveway Dreams · 07-15-2009, 01:17 PM

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.

glock35ipsc · 07-15-2009, 01:47 PM

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!

glock35ipsc · 07-15-2009, 02:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Driveway Dreams

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.

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

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.

Driveway Dreams · 07-15-2009, 06:11 PM

So you just need engine and computer now?

glock35ipsc · 07-15-2009, 07:35 PM

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

ElGracho · 07-15-2009, 08:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by glock35ipsc

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

Yep. The switch next to the ashtray.

Quote:

Originally Posted by glock35ipsc

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?

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).

Quote:

Originally Posted by glock35ipsc

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

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.

glock35ipsc · 07-15-2009, 08:05 PM

So is the 85 switch different from the 87 switch?

flamingbig10 · 07-15-2009, 08:15 PM

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

glock35ipsc · 07-15-2009, 09:18 PM

Copy that! I'll be ordering one tomorrow!

Thanks

**LEEVON** · 07-15-2009, 09:24 PM

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!

glock35ipsc · 07-15-2009, 09:30 PM

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!

I'm stuck!

Jonboy · 07-16-2009, 08:23 AM

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).

glock35ipsc · 07-16-2009, 08:31 AM

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 $$$.

menace121978 · 07-16-2009, 10:35 AM

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

BEFORE im homeless AND divorced!!!

glock35ipsc · 07-16-2009, 10:46 AM

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

07-14-2009, 03:59 PM	#1
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	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! __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-14-2009, 04:55 PM	#2
flamingbig10 6.0 powered square Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Mesquite texas Posts: 3,459	Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it? I'm guessing, using fuel delivery parts from a 87 __________________ Aaron 1980 c-10 short bed lowered, cammed 6.0, 4l80e 3600 stall, smp tune, wilwoods, and flames best time so far best et 7.86 @87 on motor 7.57 90 on a 75 shot Build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=283326

07-14-2009, 04:58 PM	#3
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	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. __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-14-2009, 06:21 PM	#4
JohnC Registered User Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 7,461	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.

07-14-2009, 06:51 PM	#5
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it? On my way! Thanks! __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-14-2009, 11:33 PM	#6
texasfunk Registered User Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Lubbock, TX Posts: 1,671	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.

07-15-2009, 12:03 AM	#7
ElGracho Gentleman Jim Driver Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Poulsbo, WA Posts: 1,550	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. __________________ Joe '75 GMC Gentleman Jim '84 Chev C10 Short Wide - Super duper plain (manual steering, manual brakes, no dome light, no cig lighter) '85 Chev C10 Short Wide - Super plain Vortec 4.8 4L60E trans also: '81 K30, '83 C30 Crew Dually, '84 M1028 CUCV, '85 M1009 CUCV, another '85 C10 SWB, '89 R3500 Flatbed

07-15-2009, 09:33 AM	#9
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	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 __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-15-2009, 01:17 PM	#11
Driveway Dreams I have car A.D.D. Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Greeley, Northern Colorado Posts: 4,147	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. __________________ -Gerald Building vehicles in memory of the first "car guy" I ever knew, my Grandpa. Bob Dunham 1935-2009. Rest in peace. 61 GMC Suburban SOLD The 86 build thread SOLD Are you a Colorado member?Click here. Last edited by Driveway Dreams; 07-15-2009 at 01:20 PM.

07-15-2009, 01:47 PM	#12
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	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! __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-15-2009, 06:11 PM	#14
Driveway Dreams I have car A.D.D. Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Greeley, Northern Colorado Posts: 4,147	Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it? So you just need engine and computer now? __________________ -Gerald Building vehicles in memory of the first "car guy" I ever knew, my Grandpa. Bob Dunham 1935-2009. Rest in peace. 61 GMC Suburban SOLD The 86 build thread SOLD Are you a Colorado member?Click here.

07-15-2009, 07:35 PM	#15
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	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. __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-15-2009, 08:05 PM	#17
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it? So is the 85 switch different from the 87 switch? __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-15-2009, 08:15 PM	#18
flamingbig10 6.0 powered square Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Mesquite texas Posts: 3,459	Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it? yes the 87 fuel tank selector switch is different than the 85 __________________ Aaron 1980 c-10 short bed lowered, cammed 6.0, 4l80e 3600 stall, smp tune, wilwoods, and flames best time so far best et 7.86 @87 on motor 7.57 90 on a 75 shot Build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=283326

07-15-2009, 09:18 PM	#19
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	Re: Vortec swappers with dual tanks: how'd ya do it? Copy that! I'll be ordering one tomorrow! Thanks __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE



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07-15-2009, 09:24 PM	#20
LEEVON Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Ozark, MO Posts: 4,887	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! __________________ '20 Silverado Trail Boss ~ '17 Tahoe ~ '79 K15 Sierra Grande ~ '76 Blazer 2wd ~ '71 Cheyenne swb ~ '55 Pontiac Safari ~'50 3100 bagged ~ '80 Wife ~ Late model kids

07-15-2009, 09:30 PM	#21
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	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! I'm stuck! __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-16-2009, 08:23 AM	#22
Jonboy Slots go on anything! Join Date: May 2003 Location: Richardson, TX Posts: 5,957	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).

07-16-2009, 08:31 AM	#23
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	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 $$$. __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

07-16-2009, 10:35 AM	#24
menace121978 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: orangevale, ca Posts: 3,626	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 BEFORE im homeless AND divorced!!! __________________ "Dennis the Menace" 1978 Silverado (2wd, 1/2 ton, short bed)complete nut & bolt frame off restomod LQ9/4L80E MY LS SWAP/FRAME OFF BUILD BOOK 2006 TBSS way too much to list

07-16-2009, 10:46 AM	#25
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	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 __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

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