LSX-coupe

iTrader: (1)

You could always buy a used long block setup. Or even short block.

gectek

iTrader: (2)

Because used is equivalent to new.

scphilli

iTrader: (2)

The price range is VERY different. If you want a fully forged custom build it is almost double the GMPP long block, which you can get for around 9200 from city.

Repeat: it will depend on your power goals and budget, which needs to be the first thing you figure out because it will drive everything else

FCar2000TA

iTrader: (7)

I think I am going to start with a shortblock, and then upgrade the intake and heads later, so I'll have more options, and I can't drop $11K on a longblock right now.

gectek

iTrader: (2)

Not so sure where you get your engines built, but for 18k that would def make more power than the GMPP one. And be a helluva lot more complete and built to your specs.

But you should be able to have an lsx block built engine built for around the price of the gmpp one.

scphilli

iTrader: (2)

Of course it will!

The question was the best place to get a motor not where to get the best motor. The response was it will depend on power goals and budget.

COPO9560

If you are on a limited budget, money goes a lot further on 4 inch bore iron block engines. You can get a long block 408/418 for way less than a 454. Yes it won't make over 600 rwhp in NA mode but add $1K for a small N2o system and you are over the 454 anyway.

The 4.125 inch and up engines are great but they are far from budget friendly. You will likely make more power with a properly assembled long block 408 than the 454 with LS1 heads.

If you are dead set on large cubes and want to reuse as much as possible, consider sending your existing block to ERL. For less than $7K the Superdeck treatment can get you a 454 and your parts will fit back on. At a minimum you should consider swapping stock LS3 type heads for your LS1's.