RANT
So, in the shop sits a brand spanking new GM crate LS3 Connect and Cruise package, includes trans harnesses, computers etc. What it does
NOT include is the front accessory drive setup. I was told at the time of purchase that the LS3 front drive kit would be available mid January, now they are telling me mid March. This drive kit is required to be on the motor when placed to insure it all fits. All of this because GM is having issues with the power steering pumps that come with the kit.
I spoke with GM performance at length this morning about this and they were little or no help. The gentleman on the phone repeated several times that there are thousands of these kits on back order, as if the "misery loves company" theory would ease my pain. They will not sell me the kit less the power steering pump and buying the parts pretty much doubles the price and that is without a steering pump.
The thing that really rubs is, they continue to build Camaros and other vehicles with this motor every day. So my guess is they are using the old pumps on the line while making those of us (thousands?) that paid over $12K for a C7C crate package to hang out to dry.
So after hours of research and need for a Valium I found a couple sources stating that an F-body front drive will fit with a couple small changes (new balancer the biggest). This includes the PS pump. This begs the question, why not just use this pump in the LS3 package. I was told by two GM reps this morning that the answer to this question is above their pay grade. If you wish to amuse yourself some time, try to apply logic to a situation to at best a middle management player in the corporate game that is General Motors. Killer products, screwed up support (humans) systems.
I ordered the secondary drive system, my fingers are crossed. This type of thing is exactly why I recommend
@beno all the time for Toyota parts. He sees the related parts to what he is asked for by clients and advises them at point of purchase. I fully believe that had I purchased this crate motor from Onur he would have told me up front about the problem with the accessory drive being back ordered and a real world work around.