Help with LQ4/LQ9 pricing questions and best setups to buy

[analyte]

I'm looking for an LQ4 or LQ9 to install in my 66 Chevelle, but I have a few questions to narrow what I'm looking for. I have no interest in a alum block as I'm after the torque of the 6.0 since I'm swapping out a BBC 454.



Should I be looking for a long block or a complete engine with all access?

I'll be using corvette brackets most likely based off install research with an LS1/2 intake, but are the access the same for all engines; i.e. a/c comp, alt, pwr steering pump so that I may reuse with diff brackets?

At what point should I consider re-ringing a block or rebuilding? 100K? 125K? 150K?

I'm seeing a lot of engines from 100K to 150K, but I'm unsure if they're just broke in by that time or not? Comments, experience?
The only mod will be a cam swap at this time with an LS1/2 intake (Possibly an LS7 cam if it will work)

When is a LQ9 a better deal than a LQ4?

I'm seeing LQ4 long blocks for about 800-1000 depending on miles and whether it's out of a van or truck.

Does van or truck matter since intake/brackets won't be used?

I'm seeing LQ9 complete engines for around 1400-1600 out of Caddy;s or SS trucks.
Is it worth 4-500 more to get the LQ9 with the higher compression? Does it open up more cam options or make the LS7 cam a better fit?

I want to keep the engine purchase under 2000 with tax, but I want to get the best deal possible. For the top of my budget, I'd like all sensors, access if usable, and injectors.

I'm ok with used engines as long as they have a warranty, but I'm unsure what PM to do based on the miles it has? rings? bearings? etc



Thanks for the help and sorry for the questions. There is a lot to take in regarding LSx engines.

Kerry

[garys 68]

Get a complete engine, access, wiring, ecu, TAC, pedal, even fuel pump. Buying separate stuff will nickle and dime you to death. Most accessories will swap over but you'll need aftermarket AC bracket if you dont want to cut your crossmember.
I've heard of well over 200k miles on these if they're taken care of. My suggestion would be stay under 100k.
LQ9s are always a better deal. Most came in escalades. No one ever towed of plowed snow with an escalade. They already haxe the LS1 cam, more torque than an LS1, and respond well to a simple tune and exhaust upgrade. You may not even want to bother with a new cam. BTW, anything bigger than an LS6 cam will require a dyno tune.
I bought both my engines on ebay from salvage yards with 6 month warantees. Hint, make a lowball offer on an engine that didn't sell for a "buy it now" price.
Btw, you can use the truck accessories with LS1 intake in a 60s A body.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/DSCN0322-1.jpg

[analyte]

Thanks Gary!!

I've found a ton of long block 6.0s so far, even from salvage yards. I thought a complete engine will be best as it least it comes with sensors and such, even if some of them need replaced. Are the coil packs the same for LSx and LQx? I'm already looking for a complete LSx intake setup, but it's good to know the truck access will work in my 66. Who do you recommend for an aftermarket A/C bracket?

Thanks,
Kerry

[garys 68]

Coil packs are different, but can be swapped. There is a thread on LS1tech showing the truck packs are actually better.
Kwik performance makes the bracket I'm using, about $200 and comes in truck, f body, or corvette spacing.

[analyte]

I found some LQ4 pullouts that didn't to look at. They are complete with a harness/ecu except for the front accessories and brackets which I can buy for extra. They all come with a 30day warranty. The LQ9's are somewhat rarer and have quite a premium for just a different piston.

2005 with 70K for $1200
2006 with 121K for $800
2006 with 197K for $650

Which is the best deal based on everyone's experience?

Thanks again,
Kerry