Ok everyone, I need some suggestions. A local guy has two engine blocks for sale. One is an '02 LQ4 shortblock, and the other one is a '99 LS1 longblock.

LQ4 (what's included): $800
block, crank, rods, pistons

LS1: $1200
Not sure of the specifics, but the guy said just about everything needed is included, including the heads.

Both of these blocks have low miles, especially the LQ4.

I want to swap one of these in place of my 5.3, but I have no clue which one I should go with. I want to keep the engine buildup price to around $4K or less, and will be adding stuff like a cam, lifters, injectors, etc. This is going in my '00 daily driver. Will the LS1 bolt up to the 4L60E? I've heard that the 5.3 heads suck on the 6.0. New heads are expensive though. What would y'all go with (based on price and performance), and why?

 

Sounds like you've got enough money in your budget to get some nice heads for the LQ4 as long as you won't be replacing any internals. Yes the LS1 will bolt up to your trans also keep in mind the LS1 block is aluminum compared to the iron LQ4.

 

Besides the aluminum block being lighter, are there any other advantages over an iron block?

 

The iron block is more durable and will accept larger bore sizes. There's no replacement for displacement.

 

Are the prices on the blocks decent?

 

Are those good prices?

 

That seems high with out heads but not bad. I paid 750 for my short block and 317 heads for my LQ4. Just the blocks are like 700 bucks new.

I would buy the LQ4 and get a good set of ported heads with the money saved over the LS1.

 

Thanks! I went with the 6.0, and I'm picking it up on saturday.

 

Good Choice!