Alright guys, Im F-ing brand new to this. Ive had my truck for about ten years and just bought an LQ4 on Friday. It needs a complete rebuild. Im looking to make 450-480 Horse.

Items I have already..

LQ4-Short block
Fast LsxR Intake
L92-Bare Heads.

From all the research Ive done, I understand I'm on the right track.

I want to rebuild the Bottom end to OEM specs and concentrate the work on the Top end.

Any Suggestions???

 

It wouldn't hurt since you're completely rebuilding to do some work to the bottom end. They're a damn stout engine for sure, but i'd definitely upgrade for sure

 

Not that i wouldnt mind doing some work to the bottom end i just dont want to go overboard. I really want to stick around the 450 range. Beyond that would just be a headache.

 

I'd send the heads away to a good reputable porter. I'm all for making power with great heads instead of an oversized cam. Which I'd say get one spec'd once you get the heads back with a flow sheet. I don't know enough about the square port head motors to set you in a direction on a cam.

Also if you're doing the bottom end, flat top (LQ9) pistons would be a good idea.

 

I was thinking on the LQ9 Pistons....

 

Are the LQ9 rods the same as the LQ4 Rods?

 

i think 03-06 rods are the same..

 

Pretty sure that the LQ4 didn't get the LQ9/LS2 rods until 04, and actually, 02 and early 03 LQ9's had the LQ4 rods also, then after an early run in 03, the LQ9's received the stronger floating pin rods

 

custom spec'd cam, worked heads, and full bolt ons might get you there. start saving for a good transmission and rear end as well..

 

I got my tranny done about two years ago with a Monster Kit from Monster Transmissions. They rate the Tranny for 500 HP, so i hope theyre right...As far as Internals Ive heard that i should not have a problem with an factory spec rebuild..Which is great...I just need to find a good machine shop in Miami now? any references would be good.