School me on the 5.3

[Phishfud]

I am now seriously looking for a 5.3 for my 70 Camaro, but with what seems to be so many versions, I am kinda lost here. I just wanna make sure I choose a worthwhile donor. From what I've read here, the intake and accessories are not a concern and will be changed anyway. Are there any years of the 5.3 that I should stay away from? For example, I found a local one complete from an 04 Trailblazer. Is this better or worse than say an 02 Tahoe? Are all 5.3's Vortec? My ultimate plan is to mate a 6speed to it, which poses another question as to if it can be done, and will any 6 speed do? I've searched on here and found lots of info, but not so much the basic specifics as to what to initially get. Any guidance as to what to stay away from or surely snag up would be great. Thanks for any help.

Terry

[1badchevelle]

I would say go spend some time over at ls1tech.com and hit the conversion section.

if it is a 04 that would be a LM4 Aluminum block. The 05 and newer a bit better(L33)

Dont get me wrong that LM4 is a great starting point. You can even keep the stock intake as it will give you more bottom end torque.

[TA219]

6-speed bolts to it just like an LS1. I also suggest LS1 tech for some good information. Here is a brief overview of my 5.3 installation

http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2163805/6

[Jake's Performance]

6 speed is no problem, the 5.3's are a LS1 for all intents and purposes as far as bolting a transmission to the block. The stock T56's used in the F bodies, GTO's, and CTS-V's can be used on the back of all the truck Gen III and Gen IV engines.

The all aluminum 5.3's would be a nice package for a conversion. Plenty of power potential on a budget.

[TA219]

Just know what you are getting in to if you choose a CTS-V 6-speed. They have a shorter bell housing and a euro style output that would need to be changed out for a f-body / GTO style. I have one and it is very smooth, but it may cost a few extra bucks to make it work