build up from block or complete engine?
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TECH Addict
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From: Anchorage, ALASKA
build up from block or complete engine? i was gonna buy an engine but now im thinking it would be cheaper to buy a block and just rebuild it. what do u guys think? i have limited experience and knowledge on rebuilds.
That would definitely be the route that I would take. The gratitude you will feel when you start it up will be priceless! you could get a forged shortblock and build the rest.
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From: BFE
It would be cheaper and much less hassle to get a whole motor. Unlike SBC's, LSx motors are internally balanced and very capricious about tolerances.
Even if you have all the tools (some specialised), you still need to have a block machined and balanced at a shop.
With exchange you can get a shortblock for $2095
Ported heads for $1095
Cam for as little as $200 used
P-rods for $100
Lifters for $200
Gaskets for $230 (including bolts)
Oil pump for $70
T chain for $70
then do the assembly yourself.
So with some shopping you can assemble a whole motor for like $4500
Even if you have all the tools (some specialised), you still need to have a block machined and balanced at a shop.
With exchange you can get a shortblock for $2095
Ported heads for $1095
Cam for as little as $200 used
P-rods for $100
Lifters for $200
Gaskets for $230 (including bolts)
Oil pump for $70
T chain for $70
then do the assembly yourself.
So with some shopping you can assemble a whole motor for like $4500
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on ebay ive found blocks for less than 500. and whole motors for like 1500. im not doing any kind of fancy build up yet, i was gonna do stock and then next year add a cam and upgraded valvetrain.
