deputydog

I came across a good deal on a 02 5.3 motor...I know the rods are the weak point and the 05 and newer 5.3 rods are preferred. Is it possible to put the LS2 rods on the 02 pistons or do I need the LS2 rods and piston since they are floating pin and the 02 is pressed pin? I know it will require balancing just curious if the 05 rods will go on 02 pistons.

Thanks

A.R. Shale Targa

iTrader: (2)

The LS 2 rods being heavier will make the rebalance expensive as Mallory slugs are about forty bucks each and the shop has to charge labor to drill and install them in addition to the average 150-175 balance cost.
Also thought I read somewhere that the press pin is .944" and the floater is .943" however I've not personally verified this.
Some options are :
Have Teflon plugs made to put in the ends of the pins for retention.
Have the pins machined shorter and the retainer grooves machined into the pistons.
Buy correct pistons or aftermarket rods....forged crank...more cubes...
Now you see why simple freshen-ups turn into stroker builds...