4th Gen Fbody Engine Choice
Hopefully with a new oil pump you will back in business. Unless that motor was built on the loose side I wouldn't be running 20w50. I have friend with a 5.3 and that's all he uses is Castrol 20w50 and all is good but these engines have tight clearances and 5w30 and 10w30 oils are what's recommended. Thicker oil means more restriction and yes it will bring the oil pressure up due to less circulation through your bearings especially at start up. I'm running 5w30 through an LSX block with a high volume oil pump and at operating temp I have over 50 psi at idle.
People run thicker oil than spec'd for the engine's clearances, then have issues, then wonder why, lol. I don't know why people get on this kick that they need to run thick oil.
I listened to a guys car a couple of years ago for him, lifters were making a ton of noise and not pumping up. I asked what oil he was using, he said 40 weight. I said why?? He said it's a built motor.. I have no idea why people think they need thick oil just because it's built. You use the oil that the components were spec'd for. And yes lifters are one of those components.
But when it comes to engine choice for the 4th Gen car I'd build the engine my pockets will let me. I'd build it for its intended purpose and see what I'm going to have to upgrade from there. Here's some thing I've learned along the way.
It's always something, it's never enough, **** happens, and it's very expensive. Welcome to Hot Rods 101 "Class dismissed"
It's always something, it's never enough, **** happens, and it's very expensive. Welcome to Hot Rods 101 "Class dismissed"
Is the project about the outcome or is it about the journey. You can have a reputable builder build it for you and have a pretty sure bet it will make the numbers he will claim.
Or you can be about the journey. Build your LS6 short block yourself and see how it works. Pick a direction and go with it.
Or you can be about the journey. Build your LS6 short block yourself and see how it works. Pick a direction and go with it.
