Hello,

I recently pulled a running LQ9 out of a 2003 Escalade. The vehicle had 175000 miles on it. With the engine on the stand I am wanting to do all the maintenance I can to prep for LS Swap. I have read through many posts but would like to confirm my list of changes.
Here is what I plan to do:
- full gaskets replacement
- head gaskets
- timing set
- oil pump

Should I consider lifters?
Should I get the heads looked at? Valve job?

Anything else to consider?

 

Timing set and oil pump are good ideas.
Any signs of gasket leakage at all?? If not, leave them alone.
If it ain't broke, it don't need fixin'!

 

That list looks good. Yes I would do Lifters, Valve spring kit, small cam. Look up the Holdner low buck truck cam for $179.00.

 

If the heads are off, DEF do a valve job.

For a cam recommendation to make any sense, it's gonna depend on what the vehicle is, the weight, gearing, converter, usage, etc.

 

Agree but a small cam will work in 99% of combinations just fine.

 

I have an LQ9, also from Escalade.
We stuffed a TSP "Low Lift" cam 212/218 degree, .553" and some OE LS6 ( or something like that ) springs alo from TSP.
Runs great with stock torque converter and 3.73 gears, pretty strong for a smooth, QUIET 5500 pound vehicle.

 

If it's going into something that was nor already an LS, better to drop it in as is to get it running. That way, if a problem crops up, you can be more certain it's whether is something it's swap-related, as opposed to engine parts change. Easier to diagnose. Put some miles on it, sort out the bugs, and then go in if you still feel the need to. Then while you're in there you can consider upgrading the cam too.

 

Bump.

 

I would do lifters at that mileage for peace of mind along with new GM lifter trays.