If I get pistons and my block needs honing can I do it with a hand held hone or will a machine shop have to do it?I know it can be done on a sbc not sure on a ls1.

 

I wouldn't.

First, if you hone without a TQ plate you will make the cylinder round in a manner that it doesn't see when it's running, not a good idea.

Second, the finish on the walls will be to smooth and you will have oiling problems.

Thrid, You need to take out 2-7 thou with the hone, unless you are doing a deglaze either way I still wouldn't.

These blocks are very picky concerning the cylinder walls so I would say no.

Bret