OB02Z28

Which is the better road to follow? My '02 Z28 has 146K miles. I am going to re-do engine. Brand new LS1 shortblock w/aftermarket heads, cam, etc or just go rotating assembly and balance/blueprint along with aftermarket heads/camshaft? Much thanks to the board for input.

30th t/a

iTrader: (51)

The money you spend on a new shortblock & aftermarket heads you could have a new 402 or 408 shortblock. If your on a budget, id reuse the stock heads & LS6 intake on the 402/408. Install a nice cam, port the TB. You'll make 425-450rwhp. Then down the road, a nice set of heads & FAST intake and you'll make over 500rwhp-550rwhp..

If you buy a new shortblock & aftermarket heads, you make 425-450rwhp (maybe alittle more or less depending on the heads, cam & Intake) but with alot less torque than the 402/408 route.

Sales1@Texas-speed

Depends exactly what your looking for and how much of the work you plan to do yourself. We can help you out no matter which direction you decide to take. I will say that once you price out what it costs to have your block machined, and assembled with a new rotating assembly you will be surprised how cost effective buying a new short-block, long-block, etc. can be since everything is ready to go and generally these packages are discounted quite a bit compared to buying everything separate. Regardless of which direction you decide to go feel free to call us we are happy to help.

OB02Z28

I am not anything of a mechanic and although I understand what parts do what, I would need someone of professional skill that knows LSx engines. I live in Charlotte, NC. I expect $5K plus to do this. Is "numbers only matching" worth keeping the OEM motor or going with a new LS1 shortblock?

supersick99z

iTrader: (66)

I'm just down the road from you in Greensboro. Several reputable shops within a few hours of you, call them and get an idea on prices for going each route

Sales1@Texas-speed

I would not be concerned about matching numbers or retaining the factory block unless that way fits your goals and budget you have put in place for this particular car.

Fry_

Is there anything wrong with your current motor? 300K+miles is not unheard of out of a even a heavily modified LS1. Unless your looking for more displacement I'd just go with h/c/i on your stock short block. If your looking for more displacement I'd look at a 402 short block over rebuilding your LS1 to a 383. A 402 has more potential not just because of 19 more cubic inches, but because the 4inch bored will allow you a larger selection of heads.

Whiteaw57

iTrader: (2)

Im in Charlotte also. There are plenty of shops around here to help you. I definitely wouldnt rebuild what you have when you can upgrade heavily for the same cost

redtan

iTrader: (5)

Unless your block is damaged or high mileage and distorted, there's little difference between a brand new block with forged internals vs a new hone on your current block with forged internals.

OB02Z28

Nothing wrong with current motor. I thought starting with a fresh block would be wiser, but knowing the OEM LS1 block could be used, then I would only need a rotating assembly. I still would need a shop to balance & blueprint. Anyone know how much is typical b&b? Given the suggestions of others above, I have my answer. Thanks guys.

OB02Z28

May I PM you to exchange contact information? I'd like to pick your brain a offline.