if i wanted to do a head and cam (cartek) build up on an ls1 vette vs ls6 z06, does it make a difference in power in the end? i'm talking strictly engine, not car weight. i know the fundamental difference between an ls1 and an ls6 is h/c, but if i go cartek, should i save $, and start with an ls1?
please educate me!
thanks!

 

you mean start off with an ls1 or ls6 shortblock for the build up? or ls1 or ls6 bare block? i'd build on an ls1 shortblock, cheaper. but depending on your h/c setup i'd look into a forged setup.

 

I have read nothing to indicate that there would be any difference in HP for a light build motor between the LS1 and LS6 castings. I've read some guys around here stating that if you are going radical HP (650+) then the LS1 casting is actually stronger and will hold up better.
Dan

 

The block is probably no bigge unless you are a hardcore autocrosser/road racer. The LS6 block is supposed to have better bay-to-bay breathing and distributes oil better.

There is one other difference. From what I have read the cranks are actually different between LS1&LS6 (different part numbers). Supposedly the LS6 crank is a better balanced version of the LS1 crank.