I have two 5.3l engines, one bought from someone here and the one in my truck. One is from a 1999 or a 2000, mine is a 2002.
Going to get the machining underway soon and am wondering which is better for my build into a 5.7l?
Any ideas or suggestions??

Thanks.

 

both are the same. heads might be a different casting but, the 2000 will be good to bolt your 2002 parts to or vice versa

 

the 06 5.3 block I got was exactly the same except for the fuel system. Same heads, same intake (besides DBW), same water pump, everything. The only thing I had to change was the temp sensor on top of the block

 

flip a coin

 

If it comes down to it, yes, I'd flip a coin since the differences are subtle that have nothing to do with the machining.

I would keep the running 5.3L in your truck and build the 5.7L on the side to lessen the down time of the truck.

 

He's got a point, lessen the amount of down time...

 

i thought they upgraded the rods?
or was that just the 6.0l motors?...i forget..

 

I thought the early cranks were cast VS forged? These are the deatils I'm looking for.
New rods will be used so thats not a big deal and I also have a set of 317s off an SS truck.

 

That'll work for sure. Mill the 317's down to match the right head gasket and compression ratio you're after. Anywhere in the range of 9.8-10.3:1 you'll still be alright on cheap gas.

 

I was thinking close to stock compression ratio would be best since I will stay with a turbo set up for added power.