In this update we’re starting on our big wiring job and keeping that turbocharged tornado frosty with a front mount intercooler and methanol injection kit.

LS-based engine swaps are popular due to their light weight, big power, and budget-friendly price.

There are also tons of excellent products that make bolting one in your car straightforward and easy on the wallet. However, there is one aspect of this swap that strikes fear in even the most die-hard shade tree mechanic: wiring and tuning.

The folks at Holley are aiming to change all of that with their new Terminator X MAX Powertrain Management System. This easy to use and powerful plug-and-play system works on any LS engine and starts at just under a thousand bucks.

The system is preloaded with Holley’s proven EFI software and loaded with built-in features like a 3.5″ touchscreen display, Bosch wideband oxygen sensor, transmission control, boost and nitrous control, and tons more. This system will be the brains behind Project Firebolt’s brawn, so let’s get to work installing it all!

The Terminator X Max system comes as a full, ready-to-run system. Since we’re turbocharged, I added a 3 bar MAP sensor and a fuel pressure sensor too. (Image/Tom Tharp)
I started by laying out the Terminator X harness and my fuel pump, cooling fan and methanol injection wiring on the workbench to get familiar with everything. (Image/Tom Tharp)
Next, I started routing and plugging in all of the wires necessary to control our turbo 5.3 and 4L80E transmission. (Image/Tom Tharp)
Too much wiring makes me grumpy, so I changed gears and installed this big front mount intercooler in the Tacoma’s snout. (Image/Tom Tharp)
For our intercooler piping, I used a variety of Summit parts, like their silicone coupling, hose clamps, and mandrel bends. (Image/Tom Tharp)
Up next, I installed AEM’s Progressive Methanol Injections system. I was impressed at the quality and bang for the buck that this kit offers. (Image/Tom Tharp)
Our next job was to install Moroso’s air/oil separator. This kit keeps the oil out of your air intake, which keeps your engine running clean. (Image/Tom Tharp)
I was tired of seeing Firebolt’s front end tore down, so back on goes the bumper, grille, and headlights. Much better! (Image/Tom Tharp)