how can you tell the difference between a 5.3L iron block and a 6.0L block...and what are the differences?can the 5.3L block be used in a build up?

 

Block will have either 4.8/5.3 or 6.0 cast right in the front of the block. 4.8/5.3 can be safely bored 0.150 which would produce 347 ci and will provide all the benefits of a iron block.

 

5.3 has a smaller bore than a 6.0 block.

6.0 block is a 4.000 bore, I think a 5.3 is a 3.85 bore??? Ask Reckless, he had a 360ci bore 5.3 motor... he might have a feel for that. ARE bored out a lot of 5.3's in the 2000-2001 timeframe.

 

so basically you just cant bore it out as much?

 

Hey Robert,
That is the first time I have heard someone recomend
to use a new block to avoid problems with a used block,
care to share your experiences?
Thanks,
Dave

 

If you are going to consider an Iron block I would suggest buying a new factory unit.... this since they are really cheap at about $650 a copy.....do this and save yourself some big headaches...

 

I'm not sure how much a 5.3 can be bored, but ask Cgelineau@diamondracing.net he said he's heard of big overbores on those blocks, hope that helps.

 

I am assuming the motor will be bored and will contain a lot of expensive new parts like an oversize crank, new connecting rods, pistons, cam etc.

So why bother with a used block when a new one is not much more cash?

I've had a used machined block for a rebuild of a big-block chevy several years ago....the "new" enging spun a bearing shortly after installation....I suspect the machining was not too hot but this is only a guess on my part ...I gave up and sold the car as is...

I'm not saying that this would not have happened if it was assembled using a new block that was machined for an overbore but I had some big dough in this and it was dissapointing...