Ok, though I'm nowhere close to doing any kind of work on my truck (except for getting an exhaust leak fixed) I've been thinking about what to do as far as motor and trans. I know fairly well about the LSx/4L60, 65 and 80 setups, and from what I've seen they're pretty strong and reliable, oh, and a little fun. But I've also been thinking about just keeping with the carb setup, just doing a healthy sbc crate motor -possibly a bbc- and a solid trans so that way everything is just a drop in and no worries about anything else.

I'm looking for pro's and con's on both motor and trans, as well as ideas.






I think I just need to graduate and get a second truck that way I can have the best of both worlds.

 

Pro's for the LS motor -
1.Looks good under the hood.
2.Some stock heads flow better than a lot of the aftermarket SBC heads.
3.6 bolt mains compared to 2 or 4 bolt SBC.

Pro's for SBC -
1.Cheap and easy to find.
2.Aftermarket heads, cam, intake, etc. are usually cheaper.
3.I hear they have a better oiling system than the LS motors.

I really like the LS motors. It seems like it takes less parts/effort to make the same power as a built-up SBC. But I have to admit, a nicely built BBC is impressive. I'd say go for the LS or the BBC.
As far as trans, I'd go with a 80E no mater what motor you choose.

 

I vote LSx. but you already knew that...

 

Id go lsx........

 

This another option, the best of both worlds.
SBC with LS heads and intake compatible block.
http://www.worldcastings.com/prods_p...s/motownls.htm

LS pro = aluminum block

572/th400 in my Hoe would make me a very happy camper.

 

Go with the LS. Even a 5.3L is extremely cheap at around 250-400 for a complete motor and you get the benifit of better mpg and more power. Heck you can even bolt up an old school trans with little extra effort.