hello i have a 99 ls1 bar block and i am going to build it up. right now i have tr230 cam and 1.5 TEA heads, stock crank and oil pump out of 01 ls1. my question is should i use stock rods and pistons becauser the cam and heads really chopped my budget down. are they strong enough to hold the HP. if anyone does use the stock pistons and rods did yall have to any mods for them to hold the HP.

 

All I can say is if you can afford pistons then do so but the rods will be fine, just add APR rod bolts and you should be fine...

 

What is a good brand of pistons. My friend is currently runnign Keith Black pistons in his mustang and he has dynoed 485 rwhp. are those good pistons and where can i find some for an ls1

 

TTT

 

Diamon Racing Pistons make nice lightweight durable pistons.

Richard <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="gr_stretch.gif" />

 

Diamond and JE make good forged pistons for stock rod LS1's. Remember if the pistons is designed for a 3.905" bore you will have the have the block machined for the new piston.

 

I have the custom racing domed JE piston set w/relief's for high compression. I would say JE or Diamond flat tops would be the best way to go.

And a set of ARP rod bolts and your ready!!!!!

 

When I redid my block I kept the stock rods but everything else was new. Speedpro rings, new pistons ( see pics on web page ), ARP bolts, Ferral race bearings etc.

 

Replace pistons & rods stock pistons are weak and poor oil return in oil ring lands some of the cause of oil consumption.The rods are strong but brittle any side load and they break eagle makes a good repl. rod for around 500.00 lunati has a piston for the correct pin dia.