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Anyone rebuilt a 5.3?

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Old 03-22-2005, 04:59 PM
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Default Anyone rebuilt a 5.3?

I know most people go with the 6.0 once their motor goes. I'm just curious how much it would cost to rebuild a 5.3. I've got one that has a messed up piston but would probably be a good candidate for a rebuild, although it's not totally torn apart yet, so who knows. I think a 5.3 could meet my goals with a cam and converter. I'm just shooting for 13's on motor, no Nitrous.

Anyone make a rebuild kit for these things?

Would also have shorty's (already got), LS1 Edit for tune (already got), K&N FIPK (already got), if I went that route.

I want a decently quick daily driver.
Old 03-22-2005, 08:52 PM
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ttt ttt
Old 03-22-2005, 08:58 PM
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My first question when reading your subject line was, "Why? What's the point?"

If I EVER opened up my 5.3L, it would become a 6.0L (at minimum). There are too many guys with LQ4 and LQ9 pistons laying around in boxes in corners of garages out there for me to not take advantage of it.
Old 03-22-2005, 09:03 PM
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Originally Posted by Naked AV
My first question when reading your subject line was, "Why? What's the point?"

If I EVER opened up my 5.3L, it would become a 6.0L (at minimum). There are too many guys with LQ4 and LQ9 pistons laying around in boxes in corners of garages out there for me to not take advantage of it.
Dumb question I'm sure, but aren't they totally different blocks?
On a budget here, and not looking for any more machining than I have too.

I've already got the 5.3 block laying around. Thanks for any suggestions/advice.
Old 03-22-2005, 09:10 PM
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Default differences

the 6.0 and the 5.3 are the same block. i believe the only difference is the bore of the engine. i think the stroke is the same. i might have it backwards. i also read that the 6.0 heads are cast iron were the 5.3 are alum.
Old 03-22-2005, 09:11 PM
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rebuild it with a cheap mechanic, you know just cam heads strong components and i think i would be more than happy.
Old 03-22-2005, 09:19 PM
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It's very doable.

The 5.3 has a smaller bore, which means lots of machine shop labor in getting that done. It would also mean completely tearing down the motor and rebulding it from crank up.

I have a 5.3 that needs head gaskets and maybe a set of rings if you're interested. PM me if you want.
Old 03-22-2005, 09:25 PM
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A 6.0 motor swap will probably end up costing you less.
Old 03-22-2005, 09:33 PM
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Thanks for all the replies guys.

Maybe I should just try to find a junkyard LQ9 and so a cam and converter.

I'm sure that would meet my goal. I'm just scared of the junkyard motors. I never know how many miles they've got on em'. The one place I know where to get one doesn't have reliable records of that stuff.

PM sent Flyer.
Old 03-23-2005, 07:03 AM
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Originally Posted by Naked AV
My first question when reading your subject line was, "Why? What's the point?

Exactly what I was thinking! Why put in another weak *** 5.3 after you blow the first one. 5.3 suck!


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