Low Budget 5.3 build

[JMarsa]

Looking to do a reliable, inexpensive build and about 400RWHP on a 2nd Gen Camaro.

I have a LS1 block, crank, heads and intake. But NONE of the sensors or electronics, wiring or fuel system. This is the stuff that adds up fast.

I'm thinking the best bang for the buck would be to buy a $1200-$1500 low mile 5.3 pullout with everything on it and computer and swap out the block with my 5.7 LS1. Then add new pistons/rings and a cam and lifters/springs. I could also buy a LS2 block since it has the same stroke as the 5.3/5.7

So does this make $$ sense?

Keep the 5.3 heads or use the ls1 heads?

Use the ls1 or get a ls6 intake?

I need a cable TB, what size for 400HP?

Basically I'd have a ls1 when I'm done right? (I know, not a real one)

Upgrading to a LS2/L92 Alum block seems like it would just add more expense. I'd need bigger heads and intake and TB, where I can buy up some of the throw away parts from the higher HP cars.

--JMarsa

[Brandon Smith]

Just be careful that all electrical is able to mate up. I know that there are some things as far as harnesses and everything goes for an LS2 and I dont know about the 5.3

[SLED28]

Looking to do a reliable, inexpensive build and about 400RWHP on a 2nd Gen Camaro.

I have a LS1 block, crank, heads and intake. But NONE of the sensors or electronics, wiring or fuel system. This is the stuff that adds up fast.

I'm thinking the best bang for the buck would be to buy a $1200-$1500 low mile 5.3 pullout with everything on it and computer and swap out the block with my 5.7 LS1. Then add new pistons/rings and a cam and lifters/springs. I could also buy a LS2 block since it has the same stroke as the 5.3/5.7

So does this make $$ sense?

Keep the 5.3 heads or use the ls1 heads?

Use the ls1 or get a ls6 intake?

I need a cable TB, what size for 400HP?

Basically I'd have a ls1 when I'm done right? (I know, not a real one)

Upgrading to a LS2/L92 Alum block seems like it would just add more expense. I'd need bigger heads and intake and TB, where I can buy up some of the throw away parts from the higher HP cars.

--JMarsa

I have a 1998 5.7L LS1 here with 15k original miles for $1500! I could put a Z06 cam in it for an extra 250 bucks and you'll need a LS6 intake and ported TB, roughly $425 more. It'll make about 370hp and rip tire

[JMarsa]

Is it complete? Wiring harness, fuel system and computer?

--JMarsa

[SLED28]

No just complete motor only

[SLED28]

Here's a pic. You can ask boilermaker as a refernce.