Alright. I blew the head gasket on the DD. didn't plan on doing anything to the 5.3 until i swapped in the 370/408 build... But plans changed cuz I need a DD that has 4 wheels. This motor has about 110k on it. Stock with cold air, new plugs, msd wires, 3" magnaflow exhaust, all new accessories, tranny cooler and radiator.. Nothing special.


I have a set of 853 heads milled .040 to 60cc with New Ls6 springs. Valve job with fresh seats/seals. Slightly ported polished bowls.... I'm using the graphite head gaskets cuz they have the notch. My block and the heads are both yr 2000.

-I have an Ls6 Cam from a 04 zo6.
-Comp 7.400 Hardened Push rods
-Complete Felpro Gasket set. (All gaskets from the heads up to the TB)
-Felpro Head bolts
-OEM Crank pulley bolt

Now, I've yet to hit the $200 mark on this build this far(actually the head bolts might have put me just over)... budget is key, although I'd opt to pay a little more now, if it saves me the headaches later, type of thing...

My questions before I start are:


-Am I missing anything or have a looked over something that should be replaced at this time??? ie timing chain or new oil pump? What about lifters and/or trays?

-Do I need new cam bolts and bearings?

-Do I need a different front engine cover/gasket for cam sensor for swapping in the Ls6 cam into the 5.3?

-And the stock balancer had a slight little wobble to it, so I want to replace it... My buddy has a fresh Ls1 balancer from a 2002 camaro. I realize the camaro pulley might be slightly shorter... but does it still work? or will I need to get a Balancer from a Truck/SUV only??

 

Answers in Red. Just take your time when doing the swap and don't for get to get a tune

 

id say change the oil pump while your in there,

 

Do you think I'll have pushrod length issues with the heads milled .040, using 7.400 pushrods?

 

No. If you are re-using old push rods just make sure they go back where they came from. Set your valve lash to spec

 

I think you might have a slight issue, But without final assembly and inspection its kinda a guessing game. If your to long I have a set of 7.350" hardened rods that I'd make you a great deal on.
,

 

your pushrods should be fine milled .040 with the ls6 cam..thats my setup

 

I've heard the ls6 cam requires a slightly longer pushrod. That's why I figured I'd be alright with the 7.4's on the milled heads.. I guess there is Only one way to know for sure..