Everything You Need To Know About Bypassing Vats On Your LS Swap

If you are here for LS vats delete tips then you are on the right page. It is time to ditch your lame engine and move to LS engine. Let us face the facts. You would not be reading this guide if you were not already in the process of converting your engine unless you are researching before you commence. If that is the case then congratulations to you. If you are already swapping your engine then you are looking for tips on how to attack the GM vats system.

What is VATS?

VATS means vehicle anti-theft system and a lot of people refer to it as a computer chip key. The chip or key has nothing to do with computers. It is also not a chip. However, because of the popularity of calling it a chip key, it is the same reason we do call it that way to avoid confusing you. The chip on the blade of the key is a resister and GM started using the key in 1986 on corvettes and later on Cadillacs. 15 different resistors are used by GM in their vat keys. When you look at the keys you will easily tell the difference.

How to get started

Now that you know VATS is a security system that GM started using in the mid-1980s, we will help you get started with your LS swap wiring and how to delete the VATS. There is a theory behind it but when it comes to swapping these into a Nissan 240sx, it is an issue since we buy the swap with Long block, T56, ECU and the wiring harness. It is rare to buy it with the ignition system or the key. Dropping in the transmission and motor is the cake part but about 9/10 times people fear the wiring. It is the easiest part about the swap.

Bypassing the VATs

The resistor pack

This is a resister pack that you will have to solder in to give the right resistance as the key would to the system to enable it to start. It takes some time to figure out the right resister to use and this is a very time-consuming process.

Standalone EMS

This is the easiest way but it is also the most expensive method.

ECM/ECU re-flashing

This is one of the cheapest methods you can consider. You just have to send your LS ECU to a tuner. You can also purchase an HP tuner and do it yourself. In case you decide to send it to one, you will have to pay around $50-$150. This is not too bad.

Depending on your tuner, they may change a few things for you since they already have the ECU. A few simple timing maps and fuel changes for more power and even remove the MAF and change your ECU to map only. This is a very popular LS VATS delete method to use. If you get a SIKKY swap kit, it will offer you a good discount.