I have a 2004 5.3 in a reg cab 2wd with 1.85 rocker arms and a whipple supercharger. i am at about 3200ft so i am getting away with about 9lbs of boost running a mix of 91 octane and E-85(about 6-7 gallons of E-85 to 17-18 gallons of 91) to avoid detenation. It is making 400 rwhp right now. I purchased a 01 6.0 LQ4 out of a 3/4 ton pickup that had got on fire and am now ready to install it in my truck. Like any engine build i would like the most gains for the least amount of money. My question to the group is the head/cam combo. I read that the Lingenfelter GT-2 cam is very popular for FI engines so i am leaning towards this cam. What do you think about the 01-03 LS6 Z06 cam? Any other suggestions? The heads are my biggest question. I know the heads i have are good for low compression but what should i do to improve them? Also what about the LS2 heads or the 6.2 heads L76/L92? I am going to stick with the stock truck intake manifold but i plan on installing headers. Also are the stock pistons ok for this build or should i go with an aftermarket? My goal is to gain 50-75 rwhp but more would be nice. I know i am asking alot but i know there are many of you out their who have already done this and i respect your opinions. Thanks.

 

If you are on a budget, skip the heads and just to a 6.0 and cam. On your setup, ported heads won't offer very big gains. Stock aluminum 6.0 heads with comp 918 springs or LS6 springs should be fine.