Originally Posted by 96capricemgr

When talking mod budgets many folks like some who posted above have little clue the true cost of completely modding a car.
When you dive into heads and cam on a stock car the OP understands he needs new exhaust, but what about some suspension mods to keep the axle planted, wheel hop will be easier with the extra power and easily takes out the crappy 7.5". Speaking of for the car to dive well with a bigger cam gears should be up in the 3.90-4.10 range with the M6. What about looking at a clutch upgrade, or what if the old fuel pump is a little weak and doesn't keep up, or the old stock injectors for that matter or a whole host of other things that can be uncovered.

$5500 evaporates quick when looking to do heads and cam on a stock car.
Just simple figures
$1000+ for exhaust
$2000+ for heads and cam by the time you find even a cheap 5.3l casting to send in
$500 for gears installed
$500 for tuning
$1000 minimum should be set aside for head bolts, fluids, timing chain, oilpump, lifters, gaskets, shop supplies like rags, oil dry, brake parts cleaner,. Hell a grand probably won't cover that stuff much less leave some cushion for unexpected items.

If a true LS1 intake on a he car a LS6 intake is advisable as well.

See how fast cash disappears when you start looking at the bigger picture?
Don't say this to discourage, but rather to prepare so you don't get bit in the middle of the project.