RED2K

With 85k on the truck I am looking to starting a new motor. I looked at a 5.7 in a wrecked SS but the owner had a change of heart. I am not looking to make some hella motor but I would like a strong short block. Are the 5.7 rods stronger than the 5.3's? if I used 5.7 rods in a 5.3 would I have to have different pistons? { like a 6 inch rod in a old 350} Should I just a do a rebuild with ARP bolts? I would spend a little more on pistons since I like to spray once and a while. If you guys have some places you know of where i can start getting these parts cheap, please send me the number. I would like to start on this now so I am not out of pocket all at once. My motor now still runs really strong but it is getting louder and louder.

<small>[ December 10, 2002, 08:18 AM: Message edited by: RED2K ]</small>

BigTex

iTrader: (16)

I'm in the same boat and having the same thoughts as well.

Use ARP bolts. Connecting rods are the same. I thought about installing an LS1 too. Less heat and 80#s lighter. Might as well look for a 6 liter long block. 40+ cubic inches more than your 5.3. Install a cam, .030 overbored, forged flat top pistons, ARP rod bolts and get ready to spray it.

RED2K

Yeah I am gonna use a stock lower end with ARP's. I guess it depends on what I get the best deal on. I hope the new pistons have the longer skirts and will solve the piston slap problem. Even if i get the 5.3 I think I will buy some used 6.0 heads. I think I will run my truck down the strip with a 200 shot one time right before i do the swap <img border="0" title="" alt="[Big Grin]" src="gr_grin.gif" /> <img border="0" alt="[kaboom]" title="" src="graemlins/gr_bomb.gif" />

<small>[ December 10, 2002, 09:40 AM: Message edited by: RED2K ]</small>

MR.MIX

Hey Alex, I've got a spare complete 5.7 sittin on a stand in my shop.Let me know if you need anything.I can also hook you up with any aftermarket parts.

Kevin

RED2K

Will do Kevn. How is that whole start up going by the way?