Hi, new to this site, I've been on LS1tech for ~ 2 years now. I'm getting ready to buy an 08 Silverado and was wondering which engine I should go with.

I really want the 5.3 cause my dad has one in his 01 GMC with a cat back and it sounds great, not as good as my LS1 with corsa cat back but it sounds good.

I'm wanting the RSCB 2wd with the 5.3L in it, but the only problem I'm running into is all the dealers around here only have the 4.3 or the 4.8L's in stock. One dealer has a 5.3 RSCB but it's yellow, and I'm not driving a yellow truck.

Whats the pros vs cons to the 4.8 and 5.3 besides power differences. Should I settle for the 4.8L or make them get a dealer trade for the 5.3L?

I drove an RSCB with the 4.8L in it and it had plenty of power, but I still think I want a 5.3.

 

If you can get the 5.3, I would try to get one of those. You start out with better power. I have the 4.8 and it runs good and is reliable. A custom tune, intake, exhaust, longtube headers, cam, converter and either one will run hard.

 

Why settle for something you don't want?

I say order the truck exactly how you want it. I also read that the 09 regular cabs with the 5.3 will get the 6 speed auto. That is most definitely worth holding out for over the 4.8, which doesn't get the 6 speed.

 

I got the 4.8 in my 07, and I feel if you want to throw a bigger motor or cam at it the 4.8 since it does not have clyinder deactivation or E-85 combatibility we be easier and a bit more reliable on the long run.

Also I get 18-22 with a couple of bolt-ons and a tonneau which many with the 5.3 seem not to get. The 4.8's shorter stroke has a lot to do with its ability to be more gas friendly, especially with 4.11's.

I hoping for 4.56's by the end of summer since my gas mileage is the same in D or OD.

 

you can tune the deactivation out of it. I love my 4.8, but honestly I would rather have a 5.3. I couldnt wait for one, I was on a deadline when I bought my truck due to a vehicle buyback from GM. My 4.8 has plenty of power and does get good gas mileage, but I would take the power of the 5.3 over the mileage difference. If you are happy with the power in the 4.8 that you drove, get the 4.8.

 

Only reason I'd settle is because I want it by monday, end of 0 for 72.

 

I'd be trying to get the 5.3; as said, I like my 4.8 okay but would rather have the 5.3. The extra torque is noticeable.

 

Go for the 5.3! I am glad that I found a RCSB with a 5.3

 

I thought the 0 for 72 was over too, but I was also told that you get your best deals at end of the month. So I'm betting on the 0 for 72 will be back. Besides the stealerships are hurting now. Later,Kirk

 

Hey, another Minnesota guy. Seems to be a bunch more of us from MN every time I sign on.

At any rate, you can tune a 5.3L to get 4.8L gas mileage and in the end you'll have about 10hp, 40lb-ft extra getty'up.