Postal Van 6.0 LS Swap Mid-Mounted!

Summary

The video follows a father and son as they remove the original inline 6-cylinder engine and transmission from a 1971 International Metro M delivery van to swap in a more powerful LS V8 engine. They encounter several challenges fitting the new engine and adapting components like the radiator and driveshaft to work, but ultimately get it mounted securely. The upgraded engine's positioning significantly rearward could greatly improve the van's handling. They seem to relish the problem-solving and camaraderie of working together on vehicles in their spare time.

Takeaways

• 😀 They removed a locked up 6-cylinder engine from a 1971 International Metro M van and swapped in an LS V8 engine
• 👷‍♂️ They had to cut part of the engine compartment and move things around to fit the new LS engine in
• 🔧 They fabricated custom engine mounts and a transmission crossmember to install the LS drivetrain
• 🚚 The Metro M was formerly a right-hand drive postal delivery van that they lowered and modified
• 🛠 They encountered various chassis clearance issues and had to modify the oil pan and transmission tunnel
• 🏎 They moved the LS engine back significantly compared to the original engine location
• 🚗 They test fitted a radiator and adapted the hoses to work with the LS engine
• 🔊 The LS engine should give the Metro M much more power compared to the old 6-cylinder
• ⚙️ They plan to upgrade the camshaft, springs, and possibly add a turbocharger in the future
• 🚦 The project highlights the custom fabrication often needed to swap a modern LS V8 into an older vehicle

Q & A

What kind of vehicle is being modified in the video?

A 1971 International Harvester Metro M van.

What engine is being swapped into the van?

A 6.0L GM Gen IV LS engine.

Why are they swapping the original engine?

The original inline 6 cylinder engine was locked up and worn out. The LS engine will provide more power and reliability.

What modifications did they make to the van before the swap?

They lowered the van by doing an axle flip, replaced the brakes, added caster, and notched the frame.

How did they get the original engine out of the van?

They had to cut part of the engine compartment and carefully maneuver it out the side door.

Where are they positioning the new LS engine?

Around 2 feet farther back than the original engine, behind the front axle.

What adjustments did they have to make to fit the LS engine?

They had to cut the transmission tunnel, make custom engine mounts, get a shorter oil pan, and fabricate a new transmission crossmember.

What drivetrain components are they reusing?

The transmission and rear differential. They had to shorten the driveshaft.

What are some challenges with the right-hand drive van?

It's harder to see the lane markings and judge clearance on the passenger side when driving.

What are their plans for the van once the swap is complete?

Use it as a mobile merch vehicle and have fun driving it to shows.