madeouttaglass

iTrader: (1)

I'm part way into a heavy mod session. My C5 has the heads, cam, exhaust, rear, tranny, and clutch out. I'm changing all that out with better parts to support a Vortech S trim that will run only 6 lbs boost. That leaves a bare shortblock just sitting there in the engine bay. I keep asking myself if I should pull it out and add forged pistons and rods. Things will never be easier than right now. My old friend has had a performance shop (old school dragsters and such.) for 25 years. I'm thinking of taking it out and just having him change out those parts. Any thoughts? Assuming a "go for it", manufacturers, prices and vendors would be highly appreciated.
Thanks, Tom

DeltaT

iTrader: (5)

You will never regret overbuilding it now, but you might regret underbuilding it later... Plus the hassle of removing everything already get you 70% of they way there. It's almost a no-brainer unless you have a serious cash problem. I'd even dip into the credit card to finish by this point...

Jim

madeouttaglass

iTrader: (1)

Thanks Jim. Any advice on specific parts and where to look for a vendor?
I should add that I've read that my stock crank is just fine for my mild setup.

WeberRacingEquipment

iTrader: (4)

Go for it

Give us a call at Weber Racing Equipment, we have been building race engines for 35+ years, with a great amount of LSx based engine experience.

Shoot me a PM, or visit us at Weberracing.net and check out our site (Though the site is still in the works, it gives a good idea of products we carry and background on the company.).

Whistler

iTrader: (46)

A forged piston, H beam rod swap wil save you a big hassle/expanse later. I like Eagle for rods and Diamond or JE for pistons. Don't forget the ARP fasteners and you'll be set. Enjoy the 6 lbs setup and when you're ready for more later,you're just a pulley swap away.

DeltaT

iTrader: (5)

+1 for what Whistler said. That's what I am running - forged Eagle rods, JE blower/nitrous pistons, Speed-Pro moly rings, 4340 crank, Clevite 77 bearings.

Jim

madeouttaglass

iTrader: (1)

I see many $$ signs floating away. Vendors, prices, and opinions on the stock crank please. Thanks everyone.

madeouttaglass

iTrader: (1)

Here's the only price I've seen. I know you guys know better deals.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/LS1-L...spagenameZWDVW

EPP

iTrader: (22)

The stock crank will handle the power, I have never seen one break. Check out our engine build on these two C5's. http://www.exoticperformanceplus.com...Car.php?car=40
http://www.exoticperformanceplus.com...Car.php?car=26 Bob

madeouttaglass

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for the info. I read that first article a while back.- Nice work.
I'm still looking for more opinions and suggestions for vendors.

NemesisC5

Do it now or you will probably regret it, although the factory bottom can handle 6 psi with ease. You will not be satisfied with 6 psi forever, and will want to up the boost. Common symptom of FI, "More is Never Enough". I know I am living on borrowed time, just kept modding and now wish I would have gone forged from the beginning. Pay Now or Pay More Later. Peace of mind does have a price on it, but it is worth every penny. Scoggins & Dickey & Texas Speed are just a couple of places that are at the top of MY list to call. Good Luck with Your Build.

Rickys S/C Z28

iTrader: (13)

yes i say go with gettint it done onw if you have the $$$$ im not yet causei dont have the $$$ but if i could i would!!!

madeouttaglass

iTrader: (1)

I've been talking to a few other experienced people and right now it looks like I might just go with a set of forged pistons from Mehle or JE. Keep the opinions coming.

NemesisC5

Don't forget the ARP or Katech rod bolts

madeouttaglass

iTrader: (1)

I thought that was only for the older LS engines? Mine's an '04.

NemesisC5

It is, but while the pistons are out I would upgrade from factory. I may be wrong, but from what I understand you should not re-use factory rod bolts in a forged build. Just "good practice", if you are like me & most, you will forever have mod fever and will always want more ! !