ls3GTO

I have a 1999 Trans am with the ls1 and t56 transmission that is completely stock. I have 4.10 gears in the rear end, Monster stage 2 clutch with about 1k miles on it, Koni single adjustable on car shocks, BMR lowering springs, and the bottom end was rebuilt around 30k miles ago. The car currently has 160k miles on it. I am looking to either build my current engine, or would I be better off buying a different block and building that? What block should I pick? Heads? Cam? Headers? Intake? Throttle body? Valves/springs? I was listening to Texas Speed's 224R cam and I liked how it wasn't such an over kill, but had a pretty mean sound to it.

Well guys, I need some help here on what to do so please reply!!

Rick Speed

iTrader: (55)

I usually get a 6.0 iron block and build them. You can use LS3 top ends which flow pretty good and easily make over 400rwhp

eng1nerd

iTrader: (2)

It depends a lot on what you want to do with the car.

ls3GTO

Well I am looking at just doing a build. Just had it dynode and 300hp just isn't going to cut it. I would like to get up into the high 3's, lower 4's.

Rick,
What does it cost about for a 6.0 block? Would you suggest me just using my ls1 block and just building the top end up? Would you suggest buying a used cam or just buy new?

Rick Speed

iTrader: (55)

You can find a full engine for between 600-1000 depending on condition miles and such. You can find shortblocks for even less. If you use your engine you won't be able to do a LS3 top end. But if you do you can just do a cam heads and intake to get there. I've had good luck with MS3 cam, 241 heads and LS6 intake with long tubes will also get you 400rwhp.

ls3GTO

I have not looked at my heads for sure but I believe they are original. Would my car already have 241 heads? Should I redo all the internals on those heads or what? I guess I am more a looks guy and don't know very much about the engines part. I know I need a little help on that.

Rick Speed

iTrader: (55)

No your car will have 853 most likely. It's stamped right on the corner of the head on the exhaust side. I'd start looking for 243 Z06 heads and LS6 intake unless you have the money to buy aftermarket heads then the skies the limit.

Bilster

iTrader: (21)

A stroker kit for your LS1 would be another option. Your horsepower requirements aren't that hard to achieve. A 4" stroker kit with what Rick Speed has already suggested....243 heads, LS6 intake with any number of cams...TR224, MS3, Texas Speed 228R should get you there....assuming a good tune.

ls3GTO

Looking at some heads. What's the difference between casting numbers 243 and 799? Besides sodium filled valves. Lol, idk what that even means.