What are the differences between the Pre 04 and 04+ LQ9
Why the Pre 04 and what are the differences between the two, on the LQ9?
There are other differences, which have been well documented on LS1tech and throughout the internet, but those are the main ones that will need attention in an Fbody.
Di you think the floating pins are worth the aggravation of getting a new block, thus dealing with all the other delete/swap issue, like the 58x to 24x wheel?
If you buy a post 04 6.0, you will need:
A. the 58x-24x converter box, ive heard of a few problems but im not quite sure on them, thats your choice!

OR
2. A different cam/cam gear/timing set, as you need one for the 1x timing and the post 04 6.0s all had the 1 bolt cam core and 4x cam timing, and potentially vvt or Dod.
Also, the cranksahft/ reluctor wheel needs to be changed from a 58x gear to a 24x gear, the good billet 24x 1 piece gear is around $150 and the tool to locate the gear properly is around $200, although i think i would try and make my own tool first.
In addition to either of the above, you will need a cam sensor extension harness, and knock sensor extension harnesses. they make an adapter harness so you can use the stock 2nd gen style knock sensors with an ls1, but i cant put the link in due to the me misplacing it and/or questioning if they are a sponsor of this site.
SOOOO all in all, if your head feels like this:

you may want to buy a pre 04 6.0.
Also, it would be cheaper imo to buy an older motor and throw in new rods and pistons that is an easy drop in vs a more complicated swap and a more expensive initial engine purchase.
Just my $.02, good luck!!!
I just got word from the seller that the motor is a Pre 04 so it looks as if the 58x ans such, will not be an issue.
I was looking at a LY6, for $1800, but from what I understand now, is the LY6 has LQ4 type pistons and I was really wanting to stay with the higher CR. What's more, I can get the LQ9 for much less ($1000), buy a set of L92 heads and LS3 intake and be in the black, over the cost of the LY6, once the vvt delete, sensor and 58x/24x swap was done.
BUT.... the LY6 did only have 5xx miles on it, lol...
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For the record, I have heard people who have said that some of the early 04's didn't have the floating rods and have also seen late 03's that did. I personally have not seen an 04 that didn't have the floating rods, perhaps a late run of early LQ4 engines made it into some trucks/suvs and not others. I would pop the pan and check the bottom end to verify.
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I just got word from the seller that the motor is a Pre 04 so it looks as if the 58x ans such, will not be an issue.
I was looking at a LY6, for $1800, but from what I understand now, is the LY6 has LQ4 type pistons and I was really wanting to stay with the higher CR. What's more, I can get the LQ9 for much less ($1000), buy a set of L92 heads and LS3 intake and be in the black, over the cost of the LY6, once the vvt delete, sensor and 58x/24x swap was done.
BUT.... the LY6 did only have 5xx miles on it, lol...
FYI, there is a .002 difference in pin diameter iirc .943 vs .945 between the LS2 and non floaters, so make sure you either order the correct pistons for the rods or do like we did and have them honed and go back to pressfit with the LS2. Really it's just a beefier rod, never had a problem with a galling when assembled correctly so the floating vs pressfit is a wash imho unless you're looking for every little bit of power.
As always guys, much thanks!







