Craig99

Trying to figure out the best way to get 400+ hp to the wheels with my lq4 budget is 4k

showdog75

iTrader: (8)

If you're trying to get 400 aim for 500.

jetech

LT headers, 706/862 heads, camshaft, flex fuel injectors, like this

Kawabuggy

iTrader: (1)

The link is for a TBSS intake-available for $115 on Amazon, and the injectors are standard flex fuel GM injectors available in many various places on the interwebs for as little as $89.99 for the complete set of 8... Please note I'm not disagreeing with your "formula" just that those parts can be had for significantly lower prices. I completely agree with what you are saying.. Here's what I would add if you are into the engine...
Flat top pistons (IF you are in the engine)
706/862 heads
Pac 1218 springs
"Insert name/model/specs" of current "best" cam... I won't be so bold as to list one as it will turn into a hissing cat fight about what cam is "best" for your goal.. Summit has a GREAT line of cams available that will easily meet your goal.
LT headers, ORY, X-pipe, into duals at least 2.5"
Throttle body... If you have a Gen 3 engine with DBC tb, the TBSS intake will require either an adapter to work with your DBC TB, or you can buy a larger after-market TB that will bolt directly to the intake without an adapter.
A good tune.. and this may be the hardest part of everything else listed... Everything above can be bought off the interwebs... A good tune on the other hand can be difficult to nail down.

Or.. a 100 shot of nitrous.. that will definitely put you well over your goal of 400hp... How long the motor will last.. let us know?

MSU BullDAWGz

this is gen III lol ..

To OP,
The early LQ4 and LR4 used a longer crankshaft than other LS engines. This makes them compatible with the older transmissions, without spacers, but will not work with newer type transmissions.
Also here is my build list to make 400+ hp. As said get 706 or 862 heads. (Try and find some with bigger intake valves or use your LQ9 valves installed after seats are enlarged.) Depending on cam lift LS6 valve springs or 600 lift springs. Big cam (as stated, Summit makes good cams but your choice) upgrade timing chain set LS6 or better. Headers, x pipe, free flow cats or delete cats. True dual exhaust. And a dyno tune from a good tuner. You didn't say what vehicle it's going in but if it's a truck use factory air box just get K&N filter and a non metal air tube intake, if an F-body get a good cold air intake (also not chrome/metal). L59 flex fuel injectors are good to 450 hp. That setup will get you over 400 and enough left over to get some NO² too...

G Atsma

It obviously got moved by a mod......

MSU BullDAWGz

Didn't think of that. But you or a mod deleted it so it's all good. I still had a good laugh and found the perfect emoji. So all good here.. 🤪​​​​​​

stockA4

How big are your wheels? I could get a whole hell of a lot done with 4K