One of the biggest challenges, when it comes to slapping a Gen V LT between your fenders, is the front accessory drive. While it may seem trivial at first, all Gen V engines are currently installed on vehicles that use electric power steering instead of the far-more-common-at-this-point hydraulic power steering system. So unless you want to go to a manual rack when you make the switch, you’re going to have to figure it out at one point or another. Luckily, Holley has done the hard part for you with their new compact front end accessory drive (FEAD).
The revolutionary system uses a newly designed water pump as the central mounting location for all the accessories on your LT, and it fits the LS as well. According to Blane Burnett of Holley, the system was developed not only as a solve for the problem of fitting hydralic power steering to the Gen V engine, but to provide a compact design for the LS platform as well.
Typically, many FEADs are much wider than the motor itself. This can often cause interference issues with frame rails, suspension components, or other ancillary devices. This kit, on the other hand, is virtually the same width as the motor itself. All of the accessories have been neatly tucked centrally to the water pump. Not only does it make for a functional design it is aesthetically pleasing as well.
Burnett tells us that the kit will be offered in several finishes and should be available for sale around the first several months of 2018. While it may seem simple, we’ve been waiting for a kit like this for some time now and it just so happens to be one of our favorite products of the show. If you’re planning an LT swap anytime soon, this accessory drive is an absolute must.