Just bought a '69 Chevelle and was planning to TKO600/LS Swap it. Would like some suggestions on building a LQ4. Budget is around 3k-4K. My ultimate goal is 500ish hp at the CRANK. Would a LQ4 with 243s and a 228r cam with a LS6 intake get me close to my goal?

 

For that kind of power, either get a GOOD port job on those 243's or use either TFS or AFR castings. The LS6 intake might get there, but a FAST would do you better for 500HP. I would also use a cam with more exhaust split, but that's just me...

 

What could I expect with that setup I suggested?

 

I will not venture a guess, but with AFR 245's(or TFS equivalent) and a FAST manifold, plus a stout cam, that 6.0 SHOULD come close to reaching your goal.

 

i just spent over your budget top for a 5.3 build with nothing super special to be honest. now i replaced every sensor, alt. starter, AC pump, you name it i did it, but my all in costs are over your budget to be honest. Not saying you cant do it, but i did a complete rebuild, bored block on up. Just to give you an idea where i am at. As for the 500hp, that i am not at, but maybe 400 to 425 or so. I did spend so good money on intake and heads.

 

The As Cast 220's would put you a hundred over your goal with the FAST as others have stated. The Dorman would get you pretty close for less $. Could go with a bit more cam, but whacking the heads to 60cc is a good move throughout the powerband.

 

500 hp at the crank is probably around 420-430 at the wheel, so the HCI you have listed it should put right in that area no problem

 

Would a 228r be plenty streetable with stick shift?

 

With a good tune it will be very streetable