I don't really have a problem with paying a shop to do the work, there just aren't any reputable ones within about 2 hours of me. I would like to go through the learning process, but there is also a lot to be said about the workmanship guarantee of a good shop.

 

clearancing dependings on the parts used. some rods will clear with no grinding, others will require extra effort. unfortunately you are not going to learn machine shop techniques on ls1tech. based on the questions you are asking, i would utilize the web and your networking skills to find a competant machine shop in your area. florida is full of places that could perform your requested tasks. if you want to learn how to assemble a rotating assembly, go grab a free 305 from a junkyard, order a dvd from boxwrench.net and learn on that. much cheaper WHEN you make a mistake.

 

id agree, or u might have a big pile of expensive broke parts

 

The more I think about it, the worse it sounds. In all reality, there is no way I can afford a $6-10K motor. Then if something happens I am wasting years of my life.

I have been lurking all over this site for a long time, dreaming of ending up with more than a stock LT-1. I have seen quite a few guys get 500+ hp with a stock 5.3/6.0 on boost. That may be my ticket. Buy a nice boost adding device and put it on a stock motor with a reasonable amount of power. If it goes to ****, I won't completely lose my mind. I will still have my boost adding device in good working order and it's fairly cheap to replace the stock motor.

Maybe later on I will get a gravy job and make enough money for a fleet of fast cars, but for now I need to be reasonable.

 

Dude, you opened a whole can of different worms when you said "boost".You will buy injectors and nothing less than 60lbs on a stock motor with FI, Your will fuel system will need upgrading if it isn't already. Which ever trans you have a4 or m6 they will need some kind of an upgrade, good clutch for the 6spd a or a strengthened a4 is a must. You will pop the 10 bolt so you will have to keep the boost low, it will last longer behind an auto though, but whats the fun in that. If you buy a kit that will be an arm and leg. If you build it you will need access to all sorts of tools and a lift would help tremendously. Not saying it can't be done, but there is more to it than just dumping a turbo on it. Scour the classifieds on here and you could pick up some parts second hand. !!!! Do not get tempted by the ebay kit!!!! It takes some fab work to make it fit.

 

I am fully aware of the 10 bolt weakness, eventual breaking of the T-56, and need for not only injectors, but a spot on tune to keep it alive. I didn't say what kind of boost either. I am kind of thinking Procharger though.

My current plan is ditching my 4th gen for a 3rd gen with some more room to work. Get a stock motor to work with and get all the supporting mods, THEN slap the parts on on with injectors and get her all tuned up. I should be able to get the car mostly done for not much more than a built motor would be, depending on the method of boost.