Lowest Total cost of Ownership Big Block - 500 ci/500 RWHP

[JMarsa]

I've noticed that big inch big blocks are getting cheaper to build. I'm considering selling my LSx and bulding a 500 inch big block. Specifically a 500 cadillac motor with parts from: cadillacperformanceparts.com

What do you think is the cheapest path to a 500 rwhp street motor?

--JMarsa

[71RS/SS396]

Keep the LSX , your car will handle better I have several cars with Big Blocks and they plow like dump trucks in the turns. I don't think you will be able to get 500 rwp any cheaper with one either. As far as using the Cadillac motor you need to consider the entire cost of this kind of swap and the problems with accessories, motor mounts ,transmission options ...etc ,it would be far more limited than what you have now.

[camcojb]

the LSX is my first choice for power and weight. If you have to have the torque of a big block and are sticking to naturally aspirated, a big block Chevy is going to be the best bang for the buck.

The Caddy would be cool and unique, but in addition to likely being more money and all the extras you'd need like custom headers, brackets, mounts, trans adaptor, etc. it will almost certainly lower the value of your car (unless it's a Caddy!).

Jody

[Vegas69]

I'm running a 489 with 491/497 at the tires. With all the aluminum goodies and the battery out back my car handles really nice. I do have the DSE subframe. I wouldn't say big block and inexpensive belong in the same sentence. You can get close with a LS2 but seem to need an ls7 to hit the 500/500 N/A.

[JMarsa]

Few people realize a 472/500 Cadillac weighs close to an all iron SBC and I've read it weighs 75 lbs less than a BBC. They use BOP transmissions so anything is possible. A running engine and trans (usually a TH400) can be had for $500. A alum head /top end kit is available from the vendor mentioned above (see Nov '09 PHR) for under 4K. That drops the weight another 50 lbs. Reworking the flanges on a set of headers doesn't seem like a big deal. I think a carbed tire smoker could be done for under 6K.

Getting that out of a 346 LSx will cost over 3K in heads and cam and fuel upgrades. I think starting off with a 6.2 LS motor tips the scales a bit the other way.

--JMarsa

[camcojb]

Few people realize a 472/500 Cadillac weighs close to an all iron SBC and I've read it weighs 75 lbs less than a BBC. They use BOP transmissions so anything is possible. A running engine and trans (usually a TH400) can be had for $500. A alum head /top end kit is available from the vendor mentioned above (see Nov '09 PHR) for under 4K. That drops the weight another 50 lbs. Reworking the flanges on a set of headers doesn't seem like a big deal. I think a carbed tire smoker could be done for under 6K.

Getting that out of a 346 LSx will cost over 3K in heads and cam and fuel upgrades. I think starting off with a 6.2 LS motor tips the scales a bit the other way.

--JMarsa

sounds like you've already made up your mind. Go for it. Just realize the lowered value of your car will be a result, but if you aren't selling then it's a non-issue. Oh, and the car show guys will definitely give you crap over it, so thick skin is in order here...........

[JMarsa]

Jody, nope, mind not made up yet...Just thinking out loud and drawing insight from the membership.

More thoughts please.

--JMarsa

[Motown 454]

I say keep the LS they make great power and the parts are only getting batter.

[Pro Stock]

422ci First Gen Small Block

[Memphis]

I'm running a 489 with 491/497 at the tires. With all the aluminum goodies and the battery out back my car handles really nice. I do have the DSE subframe. I wouldn't say big block and inexpensive belong in the same sentence. You can get close with a LS2 but seem to need an ls7 to hit the 500/500 N/A.

There are cam only LS3's putting out over 500rwhp..

[lipe33]

If you decide to go the Cadillac route let me know. I have all sorts of information about performance parts, suppliers, interchangeability, etc.

[JMarsa]

lipe33,

Welcome to the site. Please post any info you have. Many of us here like to share knowledge and experiences. Then the info is only a search away for anyone to use.

--JMarsa

[sharkkill]

If you decide to go the Cadillac route let me know. I have all sorts of information about performance parts, suppliers, interchangeability, etc.

converting 425 fuel injected motor to carb using stock parts any problems with bolting on mechanical fuel pump. how about distributer

[MarkM66]

What makes you think building a big block is getting cheaper?

BBC has advantage everything over Caddy. Except a few pounds that will be more than made up for in power.

Like Jody said, resale will be down the toilet with a Caddy engine.

[MonzaRacer]

http://www.ohiocrank.com/chevbb_rotate.html
Here is a place to look at rotating assemblies you can get a 496 kit reasonable and all you need is a decent 454 block.
AS for LSx well if you want to spend 6k and then have what everyone else has, so be it, its big reason I have been looking for a Northstar/Aurora for Monza to get by while I load up for thye twin turbo 283.
Everyone is LSx crazy but after seeing what I would need in parts to run it carbed in my car, Ill pass for now.

[tonykim]

I think a big inch caddy engine would be very unique but would probably cost more in the long run. I'd do a bbc around 500 cid with a really good cylinder head.