monsolo69

Hello from Indy! New to the LS engine community but not to the SBC crowd. Wanting to find out from the guys who have used the 5.3L cast iron truck block as a starter for a nice LSx performance build, how this idea sounds: I'm pulling my 2003 LM7 from my Yukon and am wanting to rebuild and modify it to produce around 430Hp to 450Hp naturally aspirated with very good mid-range torque. It's going to end up replacing the L98 TPI engine in my 1986 Corvette. Here's what I'm thinking about doing... bore the block from 96mm to 99mm (5.7L), install LS6 heads, LS6 intake & throttle body, and LS6 fuel rail & injectors... port and polish the heads and install a nice aftermarket cam (not sure which one yet) and control it all with an aftermarket ECM. I welcome all thoughts and direction on this idea...

G Atsma

Get a nice CNC porting job on the heads (nobody polishes anymore, BTW). This assures a VERY consistent port-to-port match. There are a TON of good cams to do what you want. Best here is to call the grinders themselves and get a recommendation from them. Cam Motion, Texas Speed and Performance, Brian Tooley, among others. Also give WS6store a call for good deals on all the overhaul parts needed. They also handle cams and can give a good recommendation.

monsolo69

Thanks, G_Atsma! I'm sitting down with my local engine builder this week to get his recommendations, as well. I will also contact WS6store and talk to them... thanks for your input and info!

G Atsma

How well tuned into the LS scene is your builder? Lots of differences between the old-school small block Chevy and the LS, and all for the better! Welcome to the forum, BTW!

monsolo69

Thanks! The shop I'm using is well into the LS scene... they machine lots of them.