flyin

iTrader: (4)

I am just starting to get me feet wet in the LS world. I am trying to do things the right way the first time. I am completely starting from scratch, so the car is not setup for anything yet.

I am looking to build myself a 370ish cube LS motor. It will probably be very mild at first, but with the intention of being a wild(ish) FI motor later on. However, if possible I'd like to purchase items just once.

So my question is: which block to use as the foundation of my build?

lq9
lsx
Motown
Warhawk
ERL
RHS

I'm not concerned with the block being iron vs aluminum.

I AM concerned with overall cost. ERL has some very costly options and RHS is expensive as well.

Also, I am intrigued by this crate motor and was looking for opinions: https://store.gmperformanceparts.com...l=<!--19171049--> It uses a LSX block, I could run it on motor initially while I get my feet back under me and throw a Procharger on it in the future

COPO9560

What are your ultimate power goals? The GM cast iron block, with doweled mains, can hold a lot of power, and is by far the cheapest choice. Lots of sponsors selling these in short or long block configuration.

flyin

iTrader: (4)

Ultimately, I would like to go with an F1R or F2, so between 1200 and 1500 hp

I have been doing research and pricing lq9 shortblocks. Typically these shortblocks with entry level rotating assemblies are in the $3000 range. I keep going back to the lsx376 that can be had for $5400 with the LSX block.

87silverbullet

iTrader: (11)

I would stick with a lq4/lq9 block if you are only going to go 370. It is the cheapest route vs. the lsx and other blocks. The only thing about the 376 with the lsx is the heads. They have a thin deck so when you put boost to them they either crack or lift and push water. This is only after roughly 13 to 15 psi.

flyin

iTrader: (4)

so you think I can build a comparable 370ish cube motor for about the same cost as that 376?

87silverbullet

iTrader: (11)

To withstand 12-1500 hp no but to make around 800 rwhp, yes. It will probably cost you better than 5k to build a shortblock to withstand 12-1500hp.

odarabla

iTrader: (1)

I would shoot for the larger bore, with a shorter stroke LS3 or LS7 block to reach your 370ci goals. Nothing like destroking a big cube motor to make that motor really zing up top!! Both can handle some pretty nasty power levels to..

flyin

iTrader: (4)

I like your thinking! but a 4.060 bore and 3.62 stroke isn't a bad combo...

87silverbullet

iTrader: (11)

You're right a 4.060 and 3.622 is a nice set-up. So with that I am assuming you are going to go LS3 block?

flyin

iTrader: (4)

I am really liking that lsx376 right now. For the $, coupled with the fact it uses an LSX block, I don't think I can go wrong

03supercobra

iTrader: (38)

If it was my build, I would run a 427 - 434 CI LSX block setup with a f2, with the 6 bolt setup and heads with a nice thick deck, you will have a reliable setup that makes plenty of power.

87silverbullet

iTrader: (11)

I hear ya but just remember what I posted in post 4.

flyin

iTrader: (4)

Eventually, something similar is the plan. Mast makes a nice set of 6 bolt heads, an F1R and this crate motor.

I keep coming back to this crate motor as my starting point. I guess unless someone convinces me otherwise, my mind is pretty much made up. I'd love for someone from Viginia Speed to chime in or another sponsor and tell me if I am way off base in my thinking

03supercobra

iTrader: (38)

IMO i think you would be wasting your time buying a crate motor, have virginia speed or HKE build you a specific motor, heads, cam combo for your intended application.

flyin

iTrader: (4)

I don't have the $12k to dish out on my ultimate goal right now. If I want to build anything it will be in stages.

flyin

iTrader: (4)

I hear you completely. I have a friend that went with a set of 317's lifting the heads with an 80mm turbo at anything over 14psi. He stil went high 8's though

Shawn @ VA Speed

iTrader: (3)

the lsx 376 really isn't a good foundation for a big hp FI build.You would really need to change everything but the block.The lsx block is a pretty good foundation for the money if you can afford the weight.Be prepared though,as they take a good amount of machine work just to be ready for engine assembly.

flyin

iTrader: (4)

Shawn, I sent you a PM. Maybe we can start a conversation on a good starting point for me?

Eddie Krawiec

I went down the road of checking out prices on stuff before I started my build. The LSX Block looks really great as a base starting point until you see what it cost to machine it and make sure it is all correct. So now your $2000 block is going to cost $3500 with all the machine work done to it to make it right. The ERL Stuff is really nice if you had a good base block and it would work great for the build. I chose the RHS Block and when I had it all checked out by my machine shop everything was right on. So all it would have needed was a final clean and build it. So they all work out to the same basic price when done.

If you wanted to end some where around 800-1000 HP I would say use a stock block and work from that. When you are talking about 1200-1500 HP you will need 6 head studs and a good deck thickness to handle it. You also would be better off using a good crank, rods and pistons to start with so your not spending money 2 times to upgrade it. A F2 can make some really good power so I would say build it to handle more.

What you should do is pick who ever is going to build it and do it all through them. You will end up with better deal's and prices if you work with one person. Plus that one person will have a better handle on the combo. Good luck.

SOMbitch

iTrader: (8)

[QUOTE=Eddie Krawiec;13708244]

What you should do is pick who ever is going to build it and do it all through them. You will end up with better deal's and prices if you work with one person. Plus that one person will have a better handle on the combo. Good luck.[/QUOTE]

Yep call Erik or Shawn IMO.......