I am a fairly new user so please don't be so harsh on me.

I have been doing some research on building a new engine for my 2002 Tahoe. I would like to keep it in factory configuration (sort of). I am going to use factory intake and fuel injection..etc but use a different cam, heads, and other bolt on's.

Having said all that I would also like it to completely bolt up 100% just like a new engine would. I keep finding a plethora of Gen IV 5.3's for cheap around here. My readings tell me that the knock sensors and cam or crank sensor are in different locations on the Gen IV. Can someone tell me exactly how I can make a Gen IV 5.3 work in my Tahoe without drill/taping new holes and such? I want my build to look 100% factory.

Are there any aftermarket harnesses that may work.. Anything? I would appreciate any info or links you can give me.

 

You have a few options. You either need to swap the reluctor ring on the crank from a 58X to a 24X which requires removal of the crank or use a converter box to change the signal. Lingenfelter makes the box.

The Knock sensors can be mounted on the side of the block and you can modify the harness to work or buy an extension add on harness.

The cam sensor is not in the rear of block on the Gen4 motor so you need a conversion harness extension to pick up the signal from the front timing chain area.

A complete plug and play conversion harness does not exist it would have to be made. You would still need the conversion box for the Crank Sensor signal. Between a custom harness and the conversion box you could easily spend 1K alone.

It's usually more economical to get an engine from the same vintage that is 100% plug and play.

 

Within the scope of the mods you are going to do the Gen 3 block will be the better choice for you.

 

Thanks guys.

 

i agree with the rest and go with gen 3 block and stuff. but if you can swing it look into getting some 243/799 heads and mill them down to 60-61cc. they flow better then the 706/862 heads and would allow you to increase the compression a little to boost power.