Datankid069

iTrader: (15)

Well guys and girls winter is now behind us and santa has come and gone. I figured what better time to start tearing into my christmas present from the wife a used LM7 long block. After seeing the motor I thought what a great opportunity for a budget swap, always wanted to do one with a 5.3 base. As I thought about it this motor is like the mystery meat they served me for chow in Iraq and Afghanistan. I had no idea what it was, where it came from, or how long it was there. So with that said looks like this is going to hopefully turn into a nice build, with some guidance from the peanut gallery (you), some friends and my drive to learn. This by the way will be the first attempt at assembling a short block.

Here's some pics





Notice the left outside bolt on the #1 main cap.

jrmchevyman

Good Luck on the build man. I see you are from Pensacola FL, I live near you.

Datankid069

iTrader: (15)

That's awesome man, you know of any machine shops in our area familiar with these ls style motors and heads?

Datankid069

iTrader: (15)

Finally got a chance to tear into the christmas present so I wanted to give yall a look inside.

These were the rod bearings that looked to have the most wear.

Datankid069

iTrader: (15)

Main bearings looked pretty good.


#3 main bearing


Not sure what that is, didn't want to touch it while taking pics.

dmelvin

iTrader: (8)

For no more than what new bearings all around cost, I'd put all new bearings in it since you don't know the history of the motor.

Datankid069

iTrader: (15)

Thanks for the advise man will do then. I was thinking about main studs cause I can't find bolts any advise as far as that goes? As great as ARP studs are and look I really need to budget.

Datankid069

iTrader: (15)

Shopping around for bearings (rod, cam, & main) and i'm a little confused guys. There so many brands and sizes out there its got me thinking. Honestly I get a warm and fuzzy for Clevite bearings, Its what I chose to put in my LS1. I just really don't get why theres so many sizes out there. Do I stick with stock replacement sizes or is this something that comes after clearances are measured. I hope i'm making sense with this question. This is a learning experience.

Datankid069

iTrader: (15)

No one? All the 5.3 build on this forum and no input?

swift700

iTrader: (3)

I'd but the stock size first. After installing them, check the clearance. If it's too tight or too loose then you'll need to buy a size bigger or smaller. I had to buy a smaller bearing as my clearances were too tight on my mains.