ls2/ls3 in a C5?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 400
Likes: 28
From: St. Paul (smokey!) MN
ls2/ls3 in a C5?
I've been reading that a possible upgrade is to replace the ls1 with a ls2 or ls3. Yes, probably much more expensive then just updating the existing ls1.
Would a GM dealer be able to service it, or would you still be restricted to using the shop that did the mod, like you would be for other mods?
I suspect the most cost effective solution to get a ls3 corvette is to just trade it for a C6, but I was just curious. I don't have any plans to mod my '98.
Would a GM dealer be able to service it, or would you still be restricted to using the shop that did the mod, like you would be for other mods?
I suspect the most cost effective solution to get a ls3 corvette is to just trade it for a C6, but I was just curious. I don't have any plans to mod my '98.
Race Director
Joined: May 2012
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From: Phoenix area, AZ
If you install an LS2 or LS3 (I'd recommend the LS3) purchased from GM using a GM authorized service center you will have the standard GM warranty that comes with the engine. Doing so would allow you to use any authorized GM service center for your service needs. Figure about $9-10k to purchase the engine and have the install done, but you can recoup part of that by selling your LS1.
Team Owner
Joined: May 2001
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From: Dear Karma, I have a list of people you missed.
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2011
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From: Holly Springs NC
St. Jude Donor '16-'17,'22,'24
I you're just looking for more HP, other upgrades would be more cost effective. IMHO, you're correct, trading it in would be a better way to get a LS2 or LS3.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 400
Likes: 28
From: St. Paul (smokey!) MN
Intermediate
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 26
Likes: 3
From: Clarksville TN
LS3 swap
I'm in the middle of an LS376/480 swap. Dealership is doing it, and it can get pretty expensive. Motor was $6700, labor will be around $2600, misc harnesses and adaptors and the Lingenfelter module will total around $500 more. I also added Texas Speed headers and a new LS7 clutch since the labor isn't going to cost any extra to do these now with the engine out. This wasn't because I wanted to do the swap, but because I had the dreaded valve spring failure which grenaded my engine. If you ever want to do it, let me know. I built a detailed Excel spreadsheet with items purchased, vendors, and costs. I can send it to anyone that wants to know what the cost will be. I'm looking at just under $11000 for everything. Important part for me was having a warranty on the labor and and the engine.
