Pull out whatever engine you have. Install LQ4 with all of the smog crap that is installed from the factory on your truck now. Get a minor tune done on the computer. Put the 6.0 fuel timing and maf tables over the top of the existing 5.3 stuff. This enables you to keep the VIN that is stock to your truck programmed into the computer. After this no one will be non the wiser except you. Then when it comes time for inspection just try to bite your lip and hold back the smile.

Then enjoy all of the smiles per gallon your 6.0 will give to you on a daily basis.

F#$k the smog *****.

 

I read about a law somewhere, it dealt mainly with custom vehicles. But the law said any vehicle old to new could have any motor, as long as that motor was used in the same basic package old to new. SO a 72 SIVLERADO could have a 6.2 out of a 2010SILVERADO, as long as state emissions where maintained. So really they cant not pass your for having a 6 liter as long as you pass emissions.

I will look for that article again.

 

Short Answer: Yes in Ca it is illegal to install a 6.0 in place of a 4.8/5.3 without getting it approved by the state Ref...

Practical Answer:The stuff you guys are talking about usually only happens to Imports (Honda's) and I don't think the fuzz would be smart enough to check...At smog time the tech will have no clue as all LS motors look identical to the average person....and pollutants are measured in PPM (parts per millions) so a 5.3/6.0 makes no difference

I run a alum 5.7 LS1 and was called a liar after popping my hood ...LOL..He said "All you have is a CAI and headers...Thats not a Vette motor And I would like to keep it that way

 

You hit the nail on the head dude....I have a few honda friends that have to "shady smog" their cars in china town where me as a white guy would stick out like a sore thumb...LOL...
I keep on seeing some of the CRAZY amount of red tape that I would have to go through to do the swap legally and just say screw THAT mess.....I'm in the same kinda boat where 99% of smog techs wouldn't know the difference in an LQ9 and an LM7 unless they knew the casting numbers....I think I could just take it to a smog place that MOSTLY deals with hondas and little kids with weed whacker exhaust and the dude wouldn't look twice at the truck....
The only thing that I think would draw attention would be if I put ported heads on the motor....the ensignia or company name that is etched into the side of the head would raise an eyebrow with sketchy techs or a cop or two....I wonder if I could just use a grinder or put a thumb of grease over the company name put into the head with the CNC machine....

 

Here:
http://www.umiperformance.com/catalo...Path=7_139_102

Problem Solved.

 

You can barely see the "PRC" on my heads once installed..They are blank on the ends..You could also call TSP and ask if they can run you a set un-marked...Or get AFR 205's as they are CA smog legal