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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.).

 

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.

 

+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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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!!!

 

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.

 

Don't forget the ARP or Katech rod bolts

 

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

 

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 ! !