cool07

I just read about the new LS3 crate engines (480 HP) that will be ready in early 2008.

I'm thinking this would be a simpler upgrade than modifying the LS2 with heads/cam/intake. Cost could be more, but then there is a LS2 for sale or transplant into something.

Thoughts ?

need-for-speed

I love my LS3 C6, but if I had an '07, I would never spend the money for a new LS3 crate motor. You would spend a lot of money (i.e. over $10K, even after selling the LS2). And even then, you would not have a warranty. You would be money ahead to either sell the '07 and buy an '08 (still a big hit finanacially). Or if you just want more HP, put heads, cam, headers, CAI, and a tune on that LS2, and you'll have more HP than an LS3.

vettecop1125

I have a heads/cam/headers package from DTE on my 07 and ended up with 460/432 and have had zero problems with the car.

Newton06

You could spend a lot less on modding an LS2 & wind up with way more power than a stock LS3.

Deleted 07.13.2020

Mod LS2 or if you have money buy LS7

Just my $0.02

SpinMonster

Fully modded the difference LS2-LS3 would be about 15HP from the bigger bore. You could just get a S/C installed for the same price and there is almost no difference in a LS3 and LS2 at that point. Neither car could get that power to the ground with street tires.

If FI isnt your thing than a forged 416 with L92 heads is the best case for N/A and will be the same cost as the crate motor. 600 HP (525 or so to the wheels)

The newest 427 from Lingenfelter is 6K for the shortblock. 1800 for the L92/L76 plus a 232/236 cam would be a mild mannered street animal.

HawaiiC6

If I were to even consider spending that kind of money on an engine upgrade I would just spend a little more and get 505 hp in a ZO6 which will have a warranty on it.

But I think as with the majority that the LS2 with a good tune, heads, cam, headers and intake and that should put you at around 480+ for a lot less then they will be selling that LS3 crate engine.

vr6aaron

Mod your ls2 with heads, cam, intake then later buy a forged 402 with high compression and transfer heads, intake and maybe cam. Or get forged 402 lowcompression then blow it.

tluck

SpinMonster

Why guys hang out in a section devoted to modding cars when they only talk of warranties makes no sense. Many guys have had modded cars covered by extended warranties with tons of mods. The tuners can honor such warranties. If my 2005 motor blows up tomorrow, I will have the warranty work done replacing my stock bottom end with a forged stroker for nearly the amount from the insurance. Its been done 1000 times.

One guy jst blew up his rear diff in a 2005 and the extended warranty covered not only a repair on his 4.10 diff but an upgrade to the 2006+ version with the transmission interface to bolt it up. Corvettes of Westchester did the work. There is a modded aftermarket diff covered by a warranty that upgraded him to a stronger model.

The LS7 is a great platform and I would take one in a hearbeat but you cant compare it to a forged 403 or 416 with all the bells and wistles for the same price. Lingenfelter gives a 2 yr warranty.

cool07

Thanks for all the input.

The car is an 07 LS2 with LPE intake, AR headers, tune, 08 NPP mufflers.

But like many folks, I'm always looking for just a bit more. In my case, I want to keep the car's comfortable cruising character, but add a few ponies for the road course. I'm not stressed about warranty.

Anyhow, this forum is great to explore options

need-for-speed

If you want to keep the comfy cruising characteristics, and aren't worried about warranty, you may want to consider a magneson supercharger. Again, you'll spend less money than you would swapping in an LS3 crate motor and have a LOT more power. You're existing headers and NPP muffs would compliment the package and you might even be able to use your CAI too. An adjustment to your aftermarket tune would not be a big deal either.

johnodrake

And, you have a warranty too!

cool07

Regarding the supercharger option, are there any heat issues if road coursing?

The magneson would definately have things covered in the power dept. I think this blower requires a new hood

need-for-speed

I believe you are correct on the hood. WRT the heat - good question that I can't answer other than the usual - get an intercooler - it will certainly help with that and increase HP. I see there is no Forced induction section for the C6. You may want to surf the C5 FI section. Any issues / solutions would be the same other than minor plumbing concerns.