Isuckatusernames

I am trying to decide what LS engine to go with for my 280z build. I was thinking either a 5.3 or a 6.0 LQ4. I found an aluminum 5.3 for $580 and a few LQ4's for $900-1k. My ultmate goal is something like 350-380 at the wheel through a T56 transmission. I am new to LS engines and am not really sure what it would take to meet my power goal. I assume I would probably be close on the LQ4 with longtubes and a cam. I'm not sure what the 5.3 motor would need though? I am leaning tward the 5.3 because it is aluminum (lighter) and a little cheaper. any ideas?
thanks

chevellepowered

iTrader: (37)

cheapest would probly be with the alum 5.3, since it should have the ls6 style heads 799 or 2xx 's put a decent size cam in there,and ls6 intake.. would be almost exactly a ls6 just a lil smaller.. that might put u there.. it will be close,since its a manuel might get there.. but i would personally go with the 6.0, and put a cam in it, ls6 cam is cheaop and should put you there maybe a lil more. aftermaket cam will no doubt put u there and some..

V8Rumble

iTrader: (9)

Man, if that 5.3 is halfway complete, I'd jump on that like a pit-bull on a T-bone. The 5.3 isn't a bad engine by ANY stretch of the imagination, & having an aluminum block will save you a good 80 lbs. off of the nose, which will help both acceleration and handling.

Either engine will get you to your desired goal, & probably fairly easily - but that 5.3 will make for a more-balanced, nicer-driving car when you're done.

gjohnson

iTrader: (4)

Sounds like you looking at a L33 if it's all aluminum. That's what I picked up for my S14 swap. I'm on a budget so I dropped in a 06 Z06 cam and springs and a LS1 intake. It does have the LS6 heads and higher compression than a normal 5.3. I haven't had a chance to drive mine yet, but it should be on the road next week.


Oh, and just to make sure the L33 came in the 05 - 06 extended cab silverado 4wd only. And like the other post states, saves you 88lbs over other 5.3's or the 6.0.

Pop N Wood

iTrader: (1)

I will tell you a 6.0 is probably the cheapest way to 500 HP at the crank.

An LS3 motor or crate LS2 will put you over your goal with no mods.

Isuckatusernames

the 5.3 is a LM4. From a 04 envoy xl. as far as i know it is identical to the LM7, just has an alum. block.

gjohnson

iTrader: (4)

Ok, the Lm4 is a great engine. I was thinking about grabbing one of those, but the L33 caught my eye and has the LS6 heads so I couldn't pass it up.