I am looking for a strong foundation for a safe head/cam/bolt-on build. My 1998 z/28 is coming up on 130k and its time to tear it apart.

I would be satisfied with around 450 wheel hp and I think it is safe to say that's a realistic goal on a stock short block. The car is not a DD, its not a track car either but I would like something that can take a serious pounding for another 100k.

I don't want to rebuild the engine in my car because I would like to still keep it on the road while the build is being done.

Should I buy used low miles ? Remanufactured? Performance shop? Open to all opinions and options. I am open to the 6.0L option but I would prefer to keep it 5.7, I want to keep it as simple as possible.

I would start junk yard searching but the whole machine shop build up is pretty intimidating to me. Assuming I got lucky with a good junk yard block how much money am I looking at for machining? if I went this way I would hire someone to assemble. How many miles would a machined block and new rotating assembly be worth? Seems like that would only make sense if I am building stroked engine?

Help me I need to commit and figure out a game plan so I can start ordering parts!

 

I got my LQ9 6.0 iron block from Thompson Motorsports, and like it much better than my stock LS1 block! With all else being equal a 6.0 iron block is going to be your cheapest option as well

 

Did you buy the block or short block assembly? They have some great deals thanks

 

I bought a whole forged assembly with block. Just added my previous HCI to it, and that was it. Yes their prices, customer service, and warranty are awesome!

 

I'm definitely budgeting for a TMS 370 when I decide to swap out my tired shortblock. Wish I had done it last year when I bought everything... but alas.

I'd recommend just going through TMS. $2999 gets a 6L block, custom Diamond pistons, Scat I-Beam rods, and a polished stock crank with King bearings. $315 shipped. It's a good deal and Kyle is knowledgeable. 2499 has Probe pistons and stock rods. For the extra money, get the custom Diamond pistons and the Scat rods. They are plenty good for 700rwhp. I think Kyle says it's good for 800rwhp, and maybe it is. The Scat rods aren't the greatest on the market, but they are more than anyone with a heads/cam package will ever need and they are lightweight.

 

what is your budget? For an F-body chassis, I would start with a new LS2 block.

 

ls2 is being considered. Like I said I am going to start this build with the ls1 still in the car. I am looking to replace it asap. more money=more time. I could go long block then just upgrade later on down the road. Would I need forged pistons and rods for my goals or could I get away without it? Tompson Motorsports pricing makes the decision so damn difficult So many options!

 

Would trading my complete ls1 for a complete low miles lq4 or 9 make sense?

 

Do you know someone who will trade their 6.0 for your LS1?

 

No I haven't considered it. Would that be a reasonable offer?

 

If you are taliking the complete motor and all, i've seen them go for around 2-2.5k with moderate miles