I've got a 98 toyota 4runner 4x4. I was originally planning on using an LS1 but as I've gotten more into the research I have been getting more and less confused.

I was planning on using a smaller or lower powers LS series motor because I am planning on backing it with a 4wd NV3500. They seem to be rated for about 300lb/ft of torque even though there are stories of them taking quite a bit more. It also weighs quite a bit less and using an NV4500 kind of offests the weight savings of an aluminium engine.

Anyways, questions.
What aluminium blocks are there for the LS and what are they out of?
4.8, 5.3, 5.7 and 6.0

What are the iron blocks(I'd deal with the extra 65lbs) out of?
5.3

What would you recomend me getting the engine out of? Make model and year. I was thinking an LS4 would be nice because of the compact accessories on the front.

Any other advise or links would be handy.

Thanks
Wes

 

Everything you always wanted to know about LS motors but were afraid to ask................

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GM_LS_engine

 

From everything I have looked at I've decided on the following.

5.3 aluminium block, or if I can't find one an iron block 4.8 or 5.3 will work

NV3500 from a 99+ chevy

I'm probably going to mate this to my toyota transfer case incase I decide in the future I need dual transfers.

I know the NV3500 is rated at about 300lb/ft of torque but it's also much lighter than the NV4500. Plus my front and rear difs are going to stay stock so I am not planning on power mods. The only things I could think I'd do is stuff to increase fuel mileage but I don't think it'll drop from what I get now.

Any thoughts, tips, or anything else on this combination would be great.

 

Did you ever get this done? I'm sort of interested in putting a cheapo 5.3 in a 2wd 97. It's pretty gutless with the 3.4.