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Need help / advice on motor upgrade / replacement

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Old Mar 29, 2009 | 11:44 PM
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Default Need help / advice on motor upgrade / replacement

OK, my 97 Vette has 140k miles and with the way I drive it, the engine is a ticking time bomb. I decided it would be better to replace the motor on my own schedule than wait for it to die on me when I really need it. So, I just bought a 2004 replacement long block (GM stock replacement) to replace my current motor. I know the later motors usually have 85mm MAF's, so I picked one up at the same time. I have also purchased an LS6 intake manifold...

1) What other items should I be replacing to match up properly with the new motor? airbridge? Fuel lines? FRC's?

2) What items do you suggest I replace "just because" while I have it torn down? Tensioner pullys? Water pump? Oil?

3) I have a set of LG Pro long tube headers I will be putting in at the same time. They are made for a 2001 to 2003 C5, but I was originally told by LG that I would just need to buy a new AIR tube to make them work on my '97. Now that I am using a later model motor, do I need to do the AIR tube, or do I effectively have an 01-04 car now in regards to the headers?

4) Is there somewhere that I can find a COMPLETE list of all the gaskets, fluids, parts, etc that I will need? I would like to get everything before I start the project.

5) Any other advice?

I don't know if it matters, but I will also be replacing the A4 tranny and torque converter at the same time. Again, just "preventative maintenance".

Thanks guys.
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Old Mar 29, 2009 | 11:50 PM
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Originally Posted by doje
OK, my 97 Vette has 140k miles and with the way I drive it, the engine is a ticking time bomb. I decided it would be better to replace the motor on my own schedule than wait for it to die on me when I really need it. So, I just bought a 2004 replacement long block (GM stock replacement) to replace my current motor. I know the later motors usually have 85mm MAF's, so I picked one up at the same time. I have also purchased an LS6 intake manifold...

1) What other items should I be replacing to match up properly with the new motor? airbridge? Fuel lines? FRC's?

2) What items do you suggest I replace "just because" while I have it torn down? Tensioner pullys? Water pump? Oil?

3) I have a set of LG Pro long tube headers I will be putting in at the same time. They are made for a 2001 to 2003 C5, but I was originally told by LG that I would just need to buy a new AIR tube to make them work on my '97. Now that I am using a later model motor, do I need to do the AIR tube, or do I effectively have an 01-04 car now in regards to the headers?

4) Is there somewhere that I can find a COMPLETE list of all the gaskets, fluids, parts, etc that I will need? I would like to get everything before I start the project.

5) Any other advice?

I don't know if it matters, but I will also be replacing the A4 tranny and torque converter at the same time. Again, just "preventative maintenance".

Thanks guys.

I suggest new vaccuum hoses since they tend to crack when weathered and or when interrupted. Replace the serpentine belt. also like you mentioned I would either rebuild the stock oil pump or replace it. It wont hurt and its inexpensive wheather you rebuild it or buy a new one.
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Old Mar 30, 2009 | 11:18 PM
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ttt
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Old Mar 31, 2009 | 01:53 AM
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Sorry doje, everyone's down there on the OBX thread... Gonna port the throttle body and match the intake to the heads? Do anything to the heads?
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Old Mar 31, 2009 | 07:35 PM
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Originally Posted by tlc0706
Sorry doje, everyone's down there on the OBX thread... Gonna port the throttle body and match the intake to the heads? Do anything to the heads?
The LS6 intake manifold is already ported. As is the throttle body. The heads, cam, and all other engine internals will stay stock.
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 06:40 PM
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Ttt
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Old Apr 2, 2009 | 01:26 AM
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Old Apr 8, 2009 | 11:45 PM
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Anyone?
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Old Apr 10, 2009 | 06:17 PM
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Old Apr 10, 2009 | 06:21 PM
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buy an LS3 create motor with a 24 tooth wheel.

GM Performance Parts LS3 Create engine

"Starting with the '08 Corvette, the world was first introduced to GM's latest small block V8 creation – the 6.2-liter LS3. A continuation of the industry leading V8 engines from GM Powertrain, the LS3 kicks out 430 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft. of torque. (In the Corvette, those numbers go to 436 hp and 428 lb.-ft. of torque with the optional dual mode exhaust system.) It's a brute of a small block with 376 ready cubes at your beckon call."

or buy a short block.

Check with SDPC2000.com or Texas Speed and Performance

Both can come up with great short blocks

Last edited by AU N EGL; Apr 10, 2009 at 06:24 PM.
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Old Apr 10, 2009 | 06:26 PM
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Well they are on back order but get the LS6 valley cover. Maybe find one used. Get a new balancer too. Great time to swap in an aftermarket cam. Miles on the starter? Swap the oil sending unit. Check your motor mounts. you will need 99-04 valve covers and coil brackets. Clutch?

Good luck

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Old Apr 10, 2009 | 08:44 PM
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Don't forget the link between the engine and the tranny - replace the torque tube bushings.

You will need the later air tubes.

The water pump is not a bad idea if your still on the original one.

Throw an UD pulley on it. That will give you new belts also.
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