NovaJon93

So I am a complete newbie at ALL LS stuff, I have a 1963 Chevy II that is getting ready for a LS/T-56. My goal for the build is a reliable 400-450wph EFI set up. I want to actually DRIVE the car instead of building a track queen.

(Cost isn't that much of a variable, Im buying a brand new T56 but would rather go with a cheaper option for the motor since its going to get stripped to bare block and getting new rings/bearing/ect)

My questions

Which is gonna be more of a bitch to work on?

LQ9- What heads would be best suited?
LS2- are stock heads OK?

Any special tricks with running a T56 behind the LQ since it was an auto?

LS2 I know has a drive by wire set up, is that easily eliminated?

Could I just throw a cam/intake and shortys on the LQ9 get the computer redone and make the power I want?

Boostedhatch

I say LS2 for lighter weight. How much power you want?

67rally

iTrader: (5)

LS2 heads are great (243's) Both blocks are 6.0. If cost isn't an option I'd go with the weight savings of the aluminum LS2 which comes with 243's already. If you go with an LQ9, I'd swap the 317 heads out for some 243's. Either way, get the 243's ported and a decent cam and you'll make some good power and still be very streetable.

Quick Ranger

iTrader: (2)

I wouldn't be worried using an iron block over alum for weight savings, that Chevy II is light enough. I'd rather have an iron block for durability.

Exidous

iTrader: (11)

At his goal of 450hp there is zero reliability benefit to the iron over the aluminum. It's purely a matter of weight. The LS2 as said will come with 243's that you can have ported into a really nice set of cathedral port heads.

If money isn't TOO much of an issue I'd suggest a tr-6060 or T-56 Magnum over the normal T-56. It a much smoother transmission that can take more of a beating out of the box.

NovaJon93

T-56 Magnum is what I meant, what does that require for bolting up behind a LQ4/9?

I'm looking at just getting a TSP head/cam package and wondering what the difference would be if i were to go with a LS3 top end instead of LQ/6.0?

DETROIT_AREA_00_SS

iTrader: (7)

Those hp goals are fairly low, cam only ls2 will get you there. My ls2 vette did 450rwhp with a 229-236-112 cam and longtubes. That was on a mustang dynamometer too.

Stay aluminum! I would go cammed ls3 though.

COSPEED2

iTrader: (7)

I would just a stock unmolested LS2. Drop in a cam, possibly change the rod and main bearings, put in a new oil pump and chain and have some fun. We can get you everything you need for that and still be super reliable.
We have quite the selection of cams that do 430-460 depending on mods at the wheels.
The only diff in the LQ4/9 is if it was behind the 4L80. Measure the crank flange to make sure. Then you would just need to use a clutch that is set up for that. We have so many clutches its hard to recommend one. The most popular is the monster stage 2 or 3. Stage 2 would work well for you and comes with all new stuff.

Sladester2

iTrader: (1)

price wise, get the lq engine. The 317 heads flow very well, so I would use them as well especially since your only wanting modest power. If money isnt an issue. LS2. It doesnt hurt to save weight

Michael Price

Lq9 had flat top pistons over the lq4's........lq9 had higher compression of 10:1 because of the flat tops.

lazerlemonta

With your power goals you can do a bolt on ls3 and achieve it with excellent manors and mileage. I made 450sae with bolth my bolt on LS3s but utilized 1.85 rockers for a little extra lift.

G Atsma

You guys are replying to a 5-year old thread...

lazerlemonta

Some builds take a while LOL

383z

iTrader: (2)

^^^^ So tru