Hello guys. I'm new here and also new to LS engines. My goal is 475-500 NA hp at the engine. I'll be using a 6L engine, not purchased yet. I understand the heads that come with the engine will probably be the equivalent of LS6 heads. I should mention this is for a DD. Will these heads be good enough without mods or should I use L92 heads. I'm looking for the cheapest way to go. Thanks for reading.

 

Are you looking for 475-500 @ flywheel or @ the wheels?

 

It's in the first post 243 heads should get you there.

 

How I missed that lol! But thanks blsnelling
243's with a bunch of other stuff for sure!

 

Will you be using a LQ4 or LQ9?

 

most likely the heads that are coming on the engine are 317 heads unless its an aluminum block 6.0L(LS6). 317 heads are great for boost not so much for NA, If you have the extra little cash then I would do L92 heads and intake mani. They flow awesome stock. But 243 heads which are LS6 heads and are slightly cheaper than L92s and will get you to your crank hp goal. I am running milled 243 heads on my new setup..

317 and 243 heads flow exactly the same, but 317 is a 72cc head and the 243s are a 64cc head, 243s will give you a higher compression.

 

Thanks for all the replies! You are extremely helpful. I don't have the engine yet, so I don't know which version I'll be getting. Should I use VVT or DoD in this case? I have a few E85 stations near me and I'm considering that too. Your opinions on these 3?

 

If you get a LQ4, mill the heads .035", use GM MLS head gaskets, and you'll have right at 11.0:1 compression.

 

I would get a LQ9, a set of 243's, and a TBSS intake if your keeping it NA.

 

'04+ LQ4 is identical to LQ9 except for the dished pistons, and is likely a lot cheaper. They'll both have the same LS2 rods and coated pistons if '04+. Mill the heads, and you can get the same compression.