Cutting corners when building an engine is generally regrettable. But, if you're leaning toward fixing up what you have, then definitely wait to see what's broke first.

 

Just buy a junkyard 6.0 should easily be able to get one for 1500. Maybe cheaper. Install a cam and be done. Those gears with a nice torqy 6.0 will feel awesome. Enjoy!!!

 

I will be swapping over all the parts in my sig that are on the 5.3 now. I have been looking and it seems that when I am not looking there are a million 6.0's laying around. When I am in the market there are none for a decent price. It also limits my search when it has to be a GEN III with the 24T crank wheel. I just have to look into seeing if there will be any issue mounting my T-56. Isn't the flange length different on the rear of the 6.0?

 

So yesterday i picked up an awesome deal.
2001 LS1 out of a SS Camaro.
I got the heads, cam and short block. Has 68,000 miles. 241 heads CNC'd with dual valve springs, titanium retainers, and blower cam. Bottom end is stock. Picked up for $400. Guy put in a blown LS3 and the owner had no place or want to keep the LS1. I am gonna pull it completly apart, put in new bearings, rings, seals, ARP rod bolts, turn the crank, check the rods and pistons, clean and mill the heads then add my thumpr cam and bolt ons. Hoping for a 50 HP increase over my worn 5.3

 

no..into the longblock, heads & cam, ...short block i have about 900 or so...

 

good find. yea for that price freshing it up wouldn't be a bad idea at all.