Unfortunately I need block for my C5 2002 Coupe. I know that I have LS1 block but in fact I am not sure what should I look for? What kind of block? Only LS1 for Corvette or any LS1? All of them are identical? LS 1 from Camaro is the same like in C5? Can I use LS6 block? with rest of parts from LS1 (pistons, heads etc.)
What are differences between LS1 and LS6?
What is 'short block' and 'long block'? Which one is in my C5?
Will be glad for your help.

Bartek

 

A "short block" is an engine block with the rotating assembly. A "long block" is the same thing but also includes the heads, and in some cases the intake as well.

The LS1 and LS6 differ mostly with the heads, intake, and cam.

The LS1 block from a Camaro, I think, is the same as a C5, however, the Camaros (F-Bodys) used a standard throttle cable, whereas the C5 uses a "drive by wire" electronic throttle.

You could take a LS1 short block, and put the LS6 heads and intake on it.

 

If you are stuck with getting an entire shortblock, just get the LS2-bigger bore. While the LS1 or LS6 from any source f-body or not, will work, it cost the same to get an LS2 and the only change is the relocation of the cam position sensor in the front which uses a dedicated type of timing chain and the knock sensor connection is on the side rather than under the valley tray. The LS6 runs in the C6 as proven by Andy at A&A corvettes so the PCM in the C5 will also work. He swapped out the LS2 for a 427 LS6. Guys on the LS1tech forum have been runningthe LS2 in f-bodies with no issues either. If you have to use the same rotating assembly/pistons it wont work due to the bore size change on the LS2.

The LS1 and 6 are the same except for cast in differences in the low end for higher rev bay to bay breathing for oil to reduce crankcase pressure. The LS2 is the same as the LS6 with bigger bores and the block is supposedly stronger and lighter as per GM's literature.

Any Gen 3 head will work on the LS2 except the C5R castings which have a different intake port shape and must use a different intake manifold to run them.

 

If really need a block, get SLP's 402 short block! Forged 4inch stroke, forged rod and pistons, Balanced and blueprinted. All for $3900 no core charge outright. Man you can't beat that. All you need to add is; cam timming chain, oil pump, and your LS6/LS2 heads. Your talking some serious power.

Andy G.

 

Guys, this dude is in Warsaw. He might not have access to all the shops and tuners we do. So a little basic info. All LS1 blocks are the same, although the camshafts vary slightly by model year and installed car. LS6 blocks merely have some more internal venting. As mentioned, most LS6 differences are in heads, cam, and intake. After mid 01 model year, GM went to one block for both LS1 and LS6, so they are the same through 04 (and 05 for Cadillac CTS-V). Also, as mentioned, a shortblock is just the basic block and rotating assembly, while a long block is an almost complete engine, including heads, cam, oil pan, and possibly intake manifold. The terms are used in reference to replacement (new or rebuilt) engines. It sounds like you need a bare block, or possibly a short block. If you get an entire used engine, you can drop it right in with your current intake and exhaust manifolds. If you manage to get an LS6 engine, use all the pieces (heads and cam) if you want higher performance. Otherwise, any LS1 or LS6 block will do. The LS2 (new in 05 vettes) mentioned above does have more displacement, but has several changes, which will require a bit of adaption and tinkering by you or an engine shop to work with the older car. If you don't have a good mechanic available, stick with the LS1/6 blocks.