Iron block build info needed
Pro
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 528
Likes: 245
From: Chicago IL
Pros: Ability to run 6-bolt heads, can handle 2000+ hp, better oiling, thicker walls between bores
Cons: Weight (110lbs heavier), heat retention
It really comes down to your power goals and current block in your car. I pulled an LS7 out of my car and put in a Dart SHP since I was looking to make more power than a typical LS7 can handle, plus I plan to run 6-bolt heads. If you have an LS3, I would just upgrade internals since those have proven to hold a ton of power. Aftermarket aluminum blocks are pretty pricey if you go that route.
Cons: Weight (110lbs heavier), heat retention
It really comes down to your power goals and current block in your car. I pulled an LS7 out of my car and put in a Dart SHP since I was looking to make more power than a typical LS7 can handle, plus I plan to run 6-bolt heads. If you have an LS3, I would just upgrade internals since those have proven to hold a ton of power. Aftermarket aluminum blocks are pretty pricey if you go that route.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 5,656
Likes: 112
From: ocean springs mississippi
Pros: Ability to run 6-bolt heads, can handle 2000+ hp, better oiling, thicker walls between bores
Cons: Weight (110lbs heavier), heat retention
It really comes down to your power goals and current block in your car. I pulled an LS7 out of my car and put in a Dart SHP since I was looking to make more power than a typical LS7 can handle, plus I plan to run 6-bolt heads. If you have an LS3, I would just upgrade internals since those have proven to hold a ton of power. Aftermarket aluminum blocks are pretty pricey if you go that route.
Cons: Weight (110lbs heavier), heat retention
It really comes down to your power goals and current block in your car. I pulled an LS7 out of my car and put in a Dart SHP since I was looking to make more power than a typical LS7 can handle, plus I plan to run 6-bolt heads. If you have an LS3, I would just upgrade internals since those have proven to hold a ton of power. Aftermarket aluminum blocks are pretty pricey if you go that route.
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Race Director
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 16,667
Likes: 1,209
From: Raleigh, NC
St. Jude Donor '15
Probably pushing it on the pistons but not remotely unheard of.
I usually stop at 800rwtq when tuning stock LS3 motors personally. There are certainly plenty that have held more... but I think the pistons get a little iffy above there. Running E85 obviously is pretty much required unless you're dumping in a ton of meth or race fuel or something, and even that much meth can have issues with being evenly distributed at that point.
I usually stop at 800rwtq when tuning stock LS3 motors personally. There are certainly plenty that have held more... but I think the pistons get a little iffy above there. Running E85 obviously is pretty much required unless you're dumping in a ton of meth or race fuel or something, and even that much meth can have issues with being evenly distributed at that point.
Last edited by schpenxel; Aug 29, 2020 at 11:26 PM.