Alum. blocks for boost
#42
Now then, 100# less out back affects traction. Yes, it wants to spin tires easier, but once it gets goin, that's 100# less it carrying along for the ride. Conversely, extra weight helps at launch, after that it just a burden on ETs, MPG, & Cd.
Altho how significant or not, IDK, as I'm not an engineer, but an enthusiast.
But yes, I can tell a difference on handling when full of gas vs 1/4 tank. In a straight line, it launches different, but it sure isn't gonna chop 1/2 sec.
And yes, I firmly believe 100# = .1 sec.

Maybe I will, maybe not. But not if I don't get results I seek. Isn't that the idea.

We just fundamentally think different I guess, I never take anything off at the track. I run it like I do on the street. The numbers when you remove everything but the kitchen sink aren't really reflective of the true performance of your vehicle otherwise should've just started with a lighter vehicle. The actual difference between the blocks is closer to 70#s, not enough to really make any difference and damn sure not enough to warrant going with an entirely new motor. The only reason one day I'll go aluminum is because I want the big 4.065 bore and you can only get that in an aluminum block without going to the really expensive blocks.
If I did it, it accomplishes: Less weight for handling, less to push down the road in a straight line, even if tiny (MPG), & if ya want cubes too, it's almost like a free mod. I mean heck, if you're gonna build a motor anyway, it's like a bonus (less weight - & from the right end of the truck too).
TIM Z & Cody, for an all out braggin #, u pull out all the stops. But in general, I run my vehicles as they are driven everyday. And no, it's not a max effort strip vehicle.
#43
I don't know if I'd want to spend the $ to go from Iron 5.3 to Alum 5.3 ... I'd listen to the guy who said LS6....for pretty much similar cost those extra few cubes ...
There's no denying that the L33 is a workhorse. With the higher compression and better heads it's a win win if that's the hand you were dealt
90lbs off the front end makes a huge difference. Hell, a lot of guys relocate the battery so why would you think dropping 90lbs a small deal?
There's no denying that the L33 is a workhorse. With the higher compression and better heads it's a win win if that's the hand you were dealt

90lbs off the front end makes a huge difference. Hell, a lot of guys relocate the battery so why would you think dropping 90lbs a small deal?

What so different bout L33 heads, why are they better?
I wouldn’t spend the time, effort and dollars for a straight up swap to aluminum 5.3L to increase straight line performance, but we have to remember that Tom also put handling as one of his points of importance and the weight from the front end would be appreciated, especially in conjunction with the added weight of the Radix if he ever gets it installed.
On the other hand if I were to consider swapping out the short-block for aluminum version, it would damn sure be for one of larger capacity. I’m with 1slow01Z71 in that I would try to pick up either an LS3/L92 or at least an LS2 short-block or even bare block to build up over time, while also keeping total displacement in check so that the little 112 can feed it somewhat decently.

On the other hand if I were to consider swapping out the short-block for aluminum version, it would damn sure be for one of larger capacity. I’m with 1slow01Z71 in that I would try to pick up either an LS3/L92 or at least an LS2 short-block or even bare block to build up over time, while also keeping total displacement in check so that the little 112 can feed it somewhat decently.
I approach alot of things in life in a multi- pronged approach.
Jarrod, wouldn't the LS3/l92 bring me into Gen4 architecture, thereby null & voiding the Radix compatibility? BTW, I never said I wasn't opposed to building somethin up over time. IF I do, it'll be built w/. all the good stuff.
My guess is they list the blocks weight, wet or dry, intended application.
Even if it's less than weight chasers may've hoped.
#44
If you are get on a Aluminum block for boost. Here ya go. http://www.racingheadservice.com/lsb...rtNumbers.aspx
If you want a stock Aluminum block for boost do a half fill job on it.
If you want a stock Aluminum block for boost do a half fill job on it.
#45
Hmmm, LS6 really would be a good idea. .4L increase, stock 10.4:1 compression (although you'd be installing forged pistons, that'd be a nice compression ratio to be at), and the heads are the same between the LS6 - L33 - LS2 - LS4. They are all either 243 or 799 castings, only difference is LS6 cylinder heads from the ZO6 Corvette came stock with sodium filled valves. The castings flow quite a bit better than the stock 5.7/5.3 heads, have larger intake valves, and the combustion chambers are a little larger than the stock 5.3 heads.
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