I have a 98 Chevy c1500 with a 5.7 and automatic Tranny.

Just recently moved to AZ for my job. I am at a point now where I would like to put some money into my truck. I am looking to rebuild my motor to 383 using Quality parts and the Tranny to support it. the tranny seems to either skip a gear or shift into overdrive even at speeds under 40mph.

I have read that the LT4 hot cam and complimentary parts with it significantly increase hp.

In addition, I would like to lower it with a TVS system from a quality company as well as upgrade breaks and wheel/tire package.

I am starting by replacing with sagging doors. Just don't know what websites can help in finding the right part numbers for my truck without going to dealer.

Thanks

 

Do you need it to pass smog in that part of Arizona? I would just go for an LS conversion the vortec 350 isn't very good at making power with the stock intake

 

I would definetly do the LS swap over rebuilding the vortec you have now. It will make a lot more power. And save yourself the headache and go ahead and do the 4L80E when you do the swap cause a 60 wont last long once you start throwing power at it.
LS1truck.com has lots of info on swaps into these trucks.

As far as suspension. I have had great experience with McGaughys stuff and would have used them on my current project if I didn't already have the stuff I had.

On the brakes SSBC makes kits for those trucks but they are kind of high $$. If you want to do it a little cheaper buy good rotors and pads then get the 3/4 ton calipers they will bolt strait on and you just put the 1/2 ton pads on them. You can also get a hydro boost setup out of a 3/4 or 1 ton and put that on. If you do that make sure you get the brake pedal to go along with it when you are at the junk yard cause it is different than the pedal that works with the vacume booster.