TKAYRC3

iTrader: (8)

I brought my LS3 block to a local machine shop to start on my Turbo short block build. The guy has built a number of Ls based engines for us & is a reputable machine shop with loads of experience. He is concerned with the amount of power an LS3 block will handle, what do you guys think an LS3 will be to handle as far as boost & power goes, looking to make like 800-900 to the wheels.
thanks in advance!
John

wilson34

iTrader: (7)

Would like to know what others have put down with a LS3 aswell..

TKAYRC3

iTrader: (8)

anybody??

pharmd

iTrader: (4)

I was under the impression that their were at least 2 varieties of LS3 blocks...the earlier block, and the post LS9 LS3 block...the later being the stronger of the two...maybe have just been heresay though.

elias_799

iTrader: (8)

the ls3 block is pretty much the same block as the one you get in the ls9 motor, and that makes 650hp, so i really do not think another couple of hundred of hp are going to break the motor. i believe there are a couple of 800+whp zr1 vettes running around without any block issues

gm was actually considering the ls7 block for the new zr1 vette but they went with a ls3 block instead due to the cylinders having more meat on them

chuntington101

VA Speed can sell you a LS3 that will take 1500bhp with no problems......

White40thGT

iTrader: (1)

Digging this one up from February, anyone else that has any input on this?

COPO9560

As another said, VA Speed offers LS3 FI short blocks up to 1000 hp. At some point you probably need to dowel the main caps. With aftermarket sleeves, over 1000 hp does not look like an issue other than paying for the machine work.

lt1773

iTrader: (1)

i have heard that ls3 block is really strong even it is stronger than LS7

silver2010

We will find out how strong the ls3 block is. I have a l99 that was putting out 575 rwhp when it was pulled out. Shawn at VA. SPEED will be doing some vvt research on this when he gets the chance!.LOL

TKAYRC3

iTrader: (8)

I decided to go with ERL, I actually tried to contact Va. Speed a few times back in feb/mar, but they never got back to me.

silver2010

DAM! You ran 135 na?

TKAYRC3

iTrader: (8)

Yeah my Old set-up went 135...
I sold that short block, just using the heads from that set-up, for the boost.

xfactor_pitbulls

iTrader: (16)

The limiting factor from what I have seen from others experience are the sleeves as much as anything. The actual block casting is not an issue before the sleeves.

Mas280

iTrader: (2)

I made 960rwhp
L92 block. 2008
L92 crank
Compstar rods
Je pistons
L92 heads
Gts 76 turbo 15 psi

Broke #7 piston on 5 psi at mojave mile 207 mph

Next motor will be a forged ls9

This time I am going to put steam vents in the rear of the heads and run # 7&8 richer



New mot

1lejohn

iTrader: (9)

Mas280 is going to tell us first hand. I think he is approching the limit. IMO 1000 plus hp is pushing an alum. block

lt1773

iTrader: (1)

if you are using the LS3/L92 heads will face a problem they will not hold the high boost they will cause either (pushing water or lifting the heads)

nobody recommend them for over 700 hp

Mas280

iTrader: (2)

I did not have any problems with pushing water with my l92 heads with ls9 gaskets. I was also using arp studs set to 85 lbs. With my new ls9 block and larger studs should help. If I do start pushing water later I could always upgrade to the TFS ls3 heads.

lt1773

iTrader: (1)

is there any different between LS3/L92 block to LS9 ??

Mas280

iTrader: (2)

Larger head studs/bolts
Piston oil squirters
Stronger main caps