383 vs. Ls1
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 5,385
Likes: 534
A 383 with a TPI on top is going to be a hindrance if you're looking to have deep lungs on your motor. The 6500 redline of an LS3 never ceases to impress me. Not to mention don't fall into the pitfall so many people do when wanting more power: not fortifying the rest of the car to keep up.
fc_soldier has a very nice set up, has been there, done that, would be a great resource to go to for AND there's also a great GREAT write up on an LS2 install into a black 85 Corvette. I think it's even got a few youtube videos (possibly because it was one of the first LS2 C4 installs).
Doing an LSX install would definitely get the nod for improvision. I mean, who would've guessed using mopar big block motor mounts of all things would work for holding an LSX in place.
http://blog.corvettecentral.com/2010...-c4-corvettes/
It's a very enticing project, it's hard to deny the good looks of a compact LS2/3 under the clamshell hood. Butt load of work but well worth it, in my opinion for a modern upgrade.
fc_soldier has a very nice set up, has been there, done that, would be a great resource to go to for AND there's also a great GREAT write up on an LS2 install into a black 85 Corvette. I think it's even got a few youtube videos (possibly because it was one of the first LS2 C4 installs).
Doing an LSX install would definitely get the nod for improvision. I mean, who would've guessed using mopar big block motor mounts of all things would work for holding an LSX in place.
http://blog.corvettecentral.com/2010...-c4-corvettes/
It's a very enticing project, it's hard to deny the good looks of a compact LS2/3 under the clamshell hood. Butt load of work but well worth it, in my opinion for a modern upgrade.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2005
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From: Riverside County Southern California
Co-winner 2020 C4 of the Year - Modified
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St. Jude Donor '09 thru '20
I never said is cheaper or more expensive.
A LSx Swap would be a great project but, he would have to decide which way he wants to take.
I'd love to install a LSx engine in a future C4 but, I'll wait until somebody gets the ECM wire harness to be compatible with the ASR, ABS and gauges.
Again, for the record! The LS engines are superior and C5 and C6 are better Vettes (as long the C4 are stock
)
Soldier, you did a hell of a job on your Vette. That swap thread is in my subscription for a future, long term goal use.
Remember, I'm a loyal C4 guy since late 1985.
A LSx Swap would be a great project but, he would have to decide which way he wants to take.
I'd love to install a LSx engine in a future C4 but, I'll wait until somebody gets the ECM wire harness to be compatible with the ASR, ABS and gauges.
Again, for the record! The LS engines are superior and C5 and C6 are better Vettes (as long the C4 are stock
)Soldier, you did a hell of a job on your Vette. That swap thread is in my subscription for a future, long term goal use.
Remember, I'm a loyal C4 guy since late 1985.
No bad feelings your a respected member on here so your opinions are valid and welcome.
Just for clarification a just did a LE2 which cost me 1600 for the package, 750 headers, 1000 in intake system and fuel, 1000 in opti, wires,coil and balancer.
Thats $4350 for a motor that will sound illegal (fail emissions), make 7 more rwhp, and chug fuel. Not even stroked. $$$$$$$$
I spent $3300 motor, 1000 for headers, and 1200 for wireharness cause I sent it out to be done.
Thats $5500 for motor that gets better gas mileage, sounds tame at idle no surging, and for love of god someone show me a c6 with a L98 or LT1 in it. Its called Progression. Displacement.
LT4 stroker you've pressed your limits and barely edge out.Yes you can get a bigger cam and better heads. But at what cost.The LS2 is stock. With minor bolt ons things may change. He hasnt ripped into the motor. A cam only will give a LS2 over 430rwhp. No other mods. Im sorry if Im impressed.
Total cost for my LS2 $8000. Thats getting a Dana 44 3.45 cause I wanted a better rear. So $5500-6000 to have a better motor. Im not trashing the LT1 or LT4. Ive built and played with one. Im just glad I went LS2 route.
I could do a LS2 swap in 2 full days with all parts in front of me. Not hard at all. Just the price of your heads and stroker kit probly cost as much as my build.
Of course this isnt a arguement this is just a discussion Im a die hard LT1 and LSx fan. Just giving my knowledge on the subject. Your build was amazing and inspired alot of people including me.
Just for clarification a just did a LE2 which cost me 1600 for the package, 750 headers, 1000 in intake system and fuel, 1000 in opti, wires,coil and balancer.
Thats $4350 for a motor that will sound illegal (fail emissions), make 7 more rwhp, and chug fuel. Not even stroked. $$$$$$$$
I spent $3300 motor, 1000 for headers, and 1200 for wireharness cause I sent it out to be done.
Thats $5500 for motor that gets better gas mileage, sounds tame at idle no surging, and for love of god someone show me a c6 with a L98 or LT1 in it. Its called Progression. Displacement.
LT4 stroker you've pressed your limits and barely edge out.Yes you can get a bigger cam and better heads. But at what cost.The LS2 is stock. With minor bolt ons things may change. He hasnt ripped into the motor. A cam only will give a LS2 over 430rwhp. No other mods. Im sorry if Im impressed.
Total cost for my LS2 $8000. Thats getting a Dana 44 3.45 cause I wanted a better rear. So $5500-6000 to have a better motor. Im not trashing the LT1 or LT4. Ive built and played with one. Im just glad I went LS2 route.
I could do a LS2 swap in 2 full days with all parts in front of me. Not hard at all. Just the price of your heads and stroker kit probly cost as much as my build.
Of course this isnt a arguement this is just a discussion Im a die hard LT1 and LSx fan. Just giving my knowledge on the subject. Your build was amazing and inspired alot of people including me.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: MA
I think I didnt type it clearly. I had a $6000 budget. But when I sold everything I made about $4000 counting aftermarket and stock parts. So my swap cost me $4000 for a LS2 Swap. I spent about $8000
I already had $6k I added the money that I got from sold parts to let me buy all the best parts.
I already had $6k I added the money that I got from sold parts to let me buy all the best parts.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: MA
A 383 with a TPI on top is going to be a hindrance if you're looking to have deep lungs on your motor. The 6500 redline of an LS3 never ceases to impress me. Not to mention don't fall into the pitfall so many people do when wanting more power: not fortifying the rest of the car to keep up.
fc_soldier has a very nice set up, has been there, done that, would be a great resource to go to for AND there's also a great GREAT write up on an LS2 install into a black 85 Corvette. I think it's even got a few youtube videos (possibly because it was one of the first LS2 C4 installs).
Doing an LSX install would definitely get the nod for improvision. I mean, who would've guessed using mopar big block motor mounts of all things would work for holding an LSX in place.
http://blog.corvettecentral.com/2010...-c4-corvettes/
It's a very enticing project, it's hard to deny the good looks of a compact LS2/3 under the clamshell hood. Butt load of work but well worth it, in my opinion for a modern upgrade.
fc_soldier has a very nice set up, has been there, done that, would be a great resource to go to for AND there's also a great GREAT write up on an LS2 install into a black 85 Corvette. I think it's even got a few youtube videos (possibly because it was one of the first LS2 C4 installs).
Doing an LSX install would definitely get the nod for improvision. I mean, who would've guessed using mopar big block motor mounts of all things would work for holding an LSX in place.
http://blog.corvettecentral.com/2010...-c4-corvettes/
It's a very enticing project, it's hard to deny the good looks of a compact LS2/3 under the clamshell hood. Butt load of work but well worth it, in my opinion for a modern upgrade.
Racer
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 253
Likes: 0
From: Fayetteville NC
LSx swap on a budget? Read these yet?
http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/conver...de-1500-a.html
http://www.yatesefi.com/
http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/conver...de-1500-a.html
http://www.yatesefi.com/
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 12,221
Likes: 446
From: Overland Park Kansas
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (appearance mods)
C4 of Year Winner (appearance mods) 2019
A 383 Gen1 will also run 6500 easy -- if you set it up right. (Higher if you use shaft rockers).
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 12,221
Likes: 446
From: Overland Park Kansas
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (appearance mods)
C4 of Year Winner (appearance mods) 2019
I think I didnt type it clearly. I had a $6000 budget. But when I sold everything I made about $4000 counting aftermarket and stock parts. So my swap cost me $4000 for a LS2 Swap. I spent about $8000
I already had $6k I added the money that I got from sold parts to let me buy all the best parts.
I already had $6k I added the money that I got from sold parts to let me buy all the best parts.
Of course, the OP won't get anywhere near $4k for a stock motor. Still,,,there is some saving either selling it or reusing some parts. (Probably around $1k, which means $8k expenditure will end up with $7k project.)
I think either route will end up with a nice car.
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 900
Likes: 3
From: Cary illinois
How much lighter is the ls vs l98 ?
Another member here is building a ls c4 and we run Midwest Council events ,Comparable susspensions . Well see how much faster his is over my prettty stock l98
Im old school...small block for me
Another member here is building a ls c4 and we run Midwest Council events ,Comparable susspensions . Well see how much faster his is over my prettty stock l98
Im old school...small block for me
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,022
Likes: 3
From: Chandler Arizona
although with the alloy block Ls-x's you're likely saving something like 30-lbs (this is a complete guess)?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,022
Likes: 3
From: Chandler Arizona
LSx swap is a viable option for an automatic equipped c4. If you've got a standard transmission you're options start to multiply the cost of the swap (if you choose to retain the standard transmission). Of course, there are several approaches here as well... ZF, T-56, TKO 500/600, etc.
The Ls-x is definitely a superior platform, and the 6-bolt main caps add to the rigidity of the block itself (someone mentioned that an old L98 is a sturdier block).
some seriously reputable aftermarket vendors offer inexpensive Ls-x short/long blocks. Like "Katech"!
Of course, I wouldn't mind looking for a lightly-used engine (like the ones in the "for sale" section). I've seen stuff for less than $5,000 (long block) with dragon slayer cranks, forged rods and pistons (something that would usually cost you $10K new).
The key is always in the heads/intake and cam combo. Don't cut yourself short with budget heads. Again, this is were the LS-x shines!
the Ls3 is far superior to earlier LS-x's. The Ls7 is a sweet engine, but not worth the premium... several c5/c6 shops have told me that they can develop equivalent power from an Ls3 platform
The Ls-x is definitely a superior platform, and the 6-bolt main caps add to the rigidity of the block itself (someone mentioned that an old L98 is a sturdier block).
some seriously reputable aftermarket vendors offer inexpensive Ls-x short/long blocks. Like "Katech"!
Of course, I wouldn't mind looking for a lightly-used engine (like the ones in the "for sale" section). I've seen stuff for less than $5,000 (long block) with dragon slayer cranks, forged rods and pistons (something that would usually cost you $10K new).
The key is always in the heads/intake and cam combo. Don't cut yourself short with budget heads. Again, this is were the LS-x shines!
the Ls3 is far superior to earlier LS-x's. The Ls7 is a sweet engine, but not worth the premium... several c5/c6 shops have told me that they can develop equivalent power from an Ls3 platform
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 81,241
Likes: 3,063
From: altered state
St. Jude Donor '05
If you can afford it go the lsx route. Huge power and better driveability, tuning capabilities than the gen 1 stuff. Neither a lsx or stroker should add any weight to the car. If you went the gen 1 route you can build a nice stroker for 7k.dont forget to budget for all the little stuff and what abouts they always pop up
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: MA
So basically all this means is that either way im going to spend $7, 000 no matter which route I take. The ls1/2 is more efficient, lighter, and is a huge pain in the *** to put in. While, the stroker may be less efficient, heavier, easy to install, may cost less, but more in the long run. I have my l98 and i have a stripped 350 block in the basement. The ls2 seem superior to me from what ive read. BTW got beat by a 2010 civic today from 75 rolling start soooo...=[[[[ I have much more drive to do this. Also, we dont have emissions for 95 and under here.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,385
Likes: 4
From: King George VA
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,385
Likes: 4
From: King George VA
The ls1/2 is more efficient, lighter, and is a huge pain in the *** to put in. While, the stroker may be less efficient, heavier, easy to install, may cost less, but more in the long run. I have my l98 and i have a stripped 350 block in the basement. The ls2 seem superior to me from what ive read. BTW got beat by a 2010 civic today from 75 rolling start soooo...=[[[[ I have much more drive to do this. Also, we dont have emissions for 95 and under here.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: MA
This makes sense. Now would it be worth it to convert the auto to a t56 since i need a new tranny anyway(mines slipping & rev'n to high) or just stick with a rebuilt auto and good stall?
Race Director
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 13,956
Likes: 706
From: WI
Wow there's some amazing costs in here. You can get a 383 built for $1500. Spend the rest rebuilding your trans or get a different trans, plus an intake and heads. Don't forget to add a new exhaust system in your budget, unless that seven thousand is just for the engine.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: MA
Wow there's some amazing costs in here. You can get a 383 built for $1500. Spend the rest rebuilding your trans or get a different trans, plus an intake and heads. Don't forget to add a new exhaust system in your budget, unless that seven thousand is just for the engine.
exhaust dosent bother me i have piping and a bender. I just wanna start making a cost list between the ls1/2 and the 383 so i can truly way my options. And yes i am poor boy vette owner, but 7,000 is in my grasps once im settled in and organized.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,385
Likes: 4
From: King George VA
Alittle extra cost in the conversion. Guys have done it but I cant say the cost and the ins and outs.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,385
Likes: 4
From: King George VA
$7,000 grand = my complete and satisfying c4 vette with some big cubes.
exhaust dosent bother me i have piping and a bender. I just wanna start making a cost list between the ls1/2 and the 383 so i can truly way my options. And yes i am poor boy vette owner, but 7,000 is in my grasps once im settled in and organized.
exhaust dosent bother me i have piping and a bender. I just wanna start making a cost list between the ls1/2 and the 383 so i can truly way my options. And yes i am poor boy vette owner, but 7,000 is in my grasps once im settled in and organized.
$1500-3500 LSx engine (LS1,LS2, or LS6)
$500- 750 Tranny
$1000-1400 Wireharness
$750-1000 Headers (Depends on A/C)
$1000 Misc (little things add up)
$350-650 Tune
Thats roughly what your looking at with the LSx.