5.3L>3.8L... The Vortec bandwaggon effect begins

[TheyCallMe Tim]

Since I have no self control and I'm bored with the whopping ~220 crank HP my sixxer is producing, I've scoured craigslist and it looks like I'm picking up my very own 5.3 Vortec this weekend. I'm still undecided on most of the details of the "build", but I'm considering a few very fun options. I'll be tearing it down fairly soon after I pick it up to at very least replace piston rings (engine has over 100k on it), engine bearings, and lifters (killed an oil puump before, caused some "lifter tick"). My buddy has some LS1 parts left over from his car that I'll be snagging (intake manifold among other things), and I'll be well on my way.

I'm shooting for a minimum of 375whp.

It will undoubtedly be a long slow process, I'll be collecting parts to do the swap over time whenever I have the money and a deal comes along, but it should be pretty nasty once it's finished. The T56, clutch and flywheel will most likely cost me more than my entire engine.

[MP81]

Cool, Tim!

Not only will your car look good now, but it'll be faster, too!

[TheyCallMe Tim]

Thank you thank you. If anyone has a lead on any parts I may need (and there's a shopping list...) let me know! Especially a cheap 6-speed trans!

[MunsterZ28]

vroom vroom zoom zoom

[sman]

Having already started this swap I absolutely have to warn you before you start. If had the opportunity to go back in time, I would NOT under any circumstances do this again. Figure your budget then add $1000. I have already spent WAY more than I thought I was going to have to.

Just remember you need ALL the accessories, oil pan, k member, steering rack, and dont even get me started on the wiring (all of the injectors and conectors have to be changed, a few sensor plugs dont quite work, bare minimum - get an ls1 fbody harness)

If you are super attached to the car buy an ls1 t56 combo with all the accessories and wiring already on it and just drop that in.

Im really not trying to discourage you, I just wanted you to be FULLY aware what your getting in to.

Best of luck!

[00FlowCamaro]

Looks like you might want to refigure your idea of getting that 5.3 now? ^^ haha.

[sman]

I really didnt mean to be such a downer, but re reading it, it kinda sounded that way (just a little frustration leaking out), if its really what you want dont let anyone tell you not to or that it cant be done, just be ready to drop some $$$.

[TheyCallMe Tim]

I'm definitely fully aware of the complexity of this project. I'm picking up a running motor for $250, getting a few LSx parts for the swap free from a buddy, and definitely taking my time on it. If I could find a black LS1/M6 car for a somewhat reasonable price I might just do that, but for what I'll have into the car once I'm done (even with the $1,000 over-budget estimation), it just wouldn't make any sense (let's just say my parents gave me a VERY good deal buying it from them).

Thanks! Soon we'll have a crew of 327 4th gen Camaros running around.

[sman]

Well so much for origionality and me being the only 327 4th gen on the board!






Only kidding! The more there are the easier it is to trouble shoot! Give me a hollar if you have ANY questions, my phone is always on 810.938.5464 or feel free to PM me.

Stay tuned to my threads, the big brown truck will be bringing a "few" boxes by my house this week, haha.

[97rs4life]

375hp can be done cheaper on a v6

[TheyCallMe Tim]

375hp can be done cheaper on a v6

That's why I said minimum 375hp. That would be my minimal base build. Plus any past there with the 6 and I'd be going through T5s like it's my job the way I drive (I hear they don't like downshifting).

[92conv]

375hp can be done cheaper on a v6

And then put a 327 emblem on the front fender and you're all set!! J/K

Good luck with the build sounds like it should be fun!!

[meissen]

Good luck with the build! I give you 327 guys credit - that sounds a hell of a lot harder, time consuming, and more expensive than it was for me to just throw an LT1 in my car.





Then again... I've at the $2,000 mark.

[meissen]

Good luck with the build! I give you 327 guys credit - that sounds a hell of a lot harder, time consuming, and more expensive than it was for me to just throw an LT1 in my car.





Then again... I'm at the $2,000 mark including price of the engine but minus sold parts..

[Derek]

375hp can be done cheaper on a v6

yep and reliability gets thrown out the door, not to mention at the end of the day it still sounds like a silly v6.. sorry I had to, I'm done with v6's and I see that v6 of yours sitting outside the car collecting dust in the barn while my v8 is ready to roll out come springtime