LS1 or 5300 Vortec

[Winslow]

My 62 is due for a repower in the next six months and I am looking into engines. My last 60 had a ramjet 350 and NV4500. For my 62 I am looking at either a LS1 or a 5.3 high-output(LM4). Either motor will be mated to a 4L65 and my stock split case. Is the torque curve of the LS1 appropriate for a heavy truck like the 62? Also due both engines have issues with the exhaust manifolds hitting the frame on the driver's side, or is it just the 5.3 that does that? Emission testing does not exist in my state, so that is not a concern (though I will run a cat). I have found some pretty good prices on both motors, though the LS1 is more. In some ways the LS1 has better support- as it is more common on hot-rods. Which do you think I should be looking for? I use it for daily driving and light wheeling. Thanks, Winslow

 

[brokenparts]

5.3s are good bang for the buck but I'd look into a LQ9 (6.0L). Decent economy and great power with great support... same family of LS motors too.

 

[IrollwithTojo]

5.3s are good bang for the buck but I'd look into a LQ9 (6.0L). Decent economy and great power with great support... same family of LS motors too.

X2 for the LQ9, nothing really wrong with the LS1 IMO, but from what i've seen (Gurus correct me if I am mistaken ) I think there are more LQ9 cruisers than LS1. So more supports if needed.
My thoughts
P.S. either one is going to make your 62 badass, I'm looking into the same project in the future.

-Carl

 

[Winslow]

Does the LS1 when combined with the 4L60 fit into the engine bay OK? I have read about problems with the manifolds hitting the frame rail on some of the vortec engines. It sounds like downey has a solution for the front driveshaft issue. I have about 3" of lift and am optimistic the oil pan will be OK. I suppose electric fans would give me some more freedom as far as engine placement goes. Thanks, Winslow

 

[mwalls54]

Well not sure if any one has told you but the ls1(5.7) is a alum block and 4.8/5.3 (same block) and 6.0 are iron block. They are all the same block design and use all the same sensors and computer. lq9 motors are 10:1 compression ratio and usually are more expensive and harder to fine, gm put these motors in escalades, VHO, and silverado ss. If you are wanting a 6.0 I would go with a lq4 which they put in 3/4 ton and 1 tons. 5.3s are going to be the easiest to find. With a small cam and a good tune they will make more hp than a stock 6.0 I would also use a truck intake on the motor because they are designed for lower tq.

 

[Elbert]

I would not do the LS!... (its the haul @$$ engine) I would go with the 5.3 or 6.0. I like the 6.0 engines. I think you'll see one of the threads where the guys are saying one of the corvette manifolds works good for the 5.3/6.0. You are looking for torque, so stay with the truck engines. I also think I've read where they were using a different style oil pan to clear the front driveshaft.

 

[Winslow]

I'm going to look into the 6.0 as well. Gotta have torque! Both the 5.3 and 6.0 look like they run on lower octane fuel as well. Not bad for mexico trips and such. Thanks, Winslow

 

[lehiguy]

Block hugger headers will clear without any issues. Then you can route the tubing anywhere you like. My passenger side goes under the front of the pan and joins the driver's side just behind the block. Lots of clearance.

 

[Winslow]

I ended up Buying a 6.0 Vortec LQ4 today. Only 31,000 miles on it ( so they say). But, it comes with a modified factory ECU, harness and PCM with harness. Only $2700.00 and tuned for 340hp!!! For the transmission I think I am going to pull the trigger on a brand new 4l65. I am ditching the drive by wire and using a Throttle Cable to the stock pedal. I'll post pics as the parts arrive and the fun begins. I am hoping that a stock 8-blade GM fan will work well with the factory radiator and custom fan shroud. If not, I'll be running dual electric fans off the ECU. This may allow for better engine placement anyway, and allow me not to have to move the t-case forward/modify the length of the drivelines. Not the end of the world either way. Thanks for the help. Regards, Winslow

 

[brokenparts]

GO AUTO.... you wont be sorry!