Hey I'm trying to decided what route to go. I could buy the radix to slap on on the ole' 5.3. I also could just build a 408. I can't seem to find any post about what it costs to build one. Obviously there is alot to factor into a question like this, but can I build a good quality motor on a 4 to 5 k budget. Basicly the same cost as the radix.

 

That's a pretty tight budget...it might be able to be done, but you'd have to cut some corners. I think I was into my build almost $10k by the time all was said and done.

 

Either path you take... I would at least have money (or credit) set aside if/when your tranny starts to complain. And I agree with thunder550... 4-5k is a really tight budget for a 408. You will be able to find a used Radix within your budget and probably have enough left over to at least put a Transgo HD2 shift kit in the tranny... along with aluminum accumulator pistons and a Corvette (or Sonnax) servo upgrade.

Bill

 

I built mine for about 6k and i wouldn't say i cut any corners.