it depends also on if you buy a lq4 or 9. but 425-500

 

You can keep the 317 heads and use your 5.3 intake. The ls3 and l92 is fine, but that intake requires a lot of modifications such as the water pump and alternator. If you use L92 heads, use the same L92 truck intake.

 

I wanna get the 9 for the flat top pistons, if the price is right. With the upgraded intake and stock heads would I need new injectors and fuel pump? Not doing the heads right away since that would be easier to get to later on would be another option to save more money and allow for the changes needed like you said. What all would that entail? Sorry for so many questions, I just wanna make sure I make the best choices and learn as much as I can. It is appreciated.

 

i would go with a cheap set of marine 8.1 injectors or flex fuel injectors but the pump will be fine.

 

Your trans is going to need a refresh at some point, so I would just start simple with the 6.0 and a cam and go from there.

 

Seems like its gonna be a fun experience. If I get get 500 hp w/o swapping the internals I'll be a very happy camper.

 

I meant to ask about the trans too. What all would be involved with swapping to the 4l80, and would a stock one be enough to hold that much power or would it need to be built as well?

 

Yes, a 4L80E will hold a cammed 6-liter. However, it isn't cheap or easy to swap to an 80E. We are just trying to keep you lined up with your budget so you don't go over or get halfway through and not be able to afford to finish and enjoy your new engine.

 

What needs to be done to do that swap? I guess I should be more worried about that then the engine right now. My stock 5.3 wouldn't bolt up to a 80e would it? Just wondering cause that would allow for more time to change parts.

 

yes a 5.3 will bolt up to an 80. you need a new flywheel, the drive shaft will need to be shortened depending on your truck or some get away with moving the carrier bearing. the PCM needs to be changed and pins added to it for additional sensors the 60 doesnt have and im not sure if the trans cross member is the same or not. a good 80 swap with stall converter and flexplate would set you back about 3k. you could also swap to a t56 6 speed manual for about the same cost.

correct me if im wrong guys but didnt the 1500hd come with the 5.3L and the 80E?