yes the L33 is the alum. block

 

Is the '02 and up PCM a better unit?

 

Hell yes it is!

Cams:
99 5.3 cam: 191/190 .457/.466 115.5
00+ 5.3 cam: 191/190 .457/.466 114

1999 5.3 only made 265hp versus the 285hp from 2000 up. 290hp in 2004.

 

Pardon my ignorance, but what makes it better?

 

99 PCM had serious false knock issues. I wouldnt use one to anchor my boat. 2000's and some 2001's seemed to have that issue to. Albeit not as bad as the 99 but was still existent. 02+ was the key to killing the false KR problem I fought for months in my old 99. The tables written into the PCM are alot better. Updating the PCM cant clean that crap up. I tried it.

Just save yourself the trouble and look for an 02+ PCM.

 

Great info! Is the PCM specific to either cable or DBW throttle body?

 

Yes it will be to my knowledge. There is an actual controller for the DBW TB on the firewall. Are you looking to use DBW??

 

I quess it depends on what year engine I end up with. Low mileage is my main concern buying an engine. Hopefully I can find and '02.

 

even if you get a 03-06 5.3 just swap the TB to a cable and be set

someone corrrect me if im wrong

 

That would be great if it would work with the PCM