Conversion
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 619
Likes: 9
From: Thonotosassa Florida
Conversion
Has anyone converted their LS3 into an LS9 using the GM Performace over the counter parts? Just wondering if this could be done or is the block totally different. I know both are 6.2 liters. If this is possible has anyone done so and what was the cost? Right now I have an 02 Z06 that I am considering if it would make any sense to trade up either to a 08 Z06 or go with an 08 LS3 block for less money and do the conversion if that is even possible?
Go Canes!
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 5,975
Likes: 329
From: Boca Raton FL
St. Jude Donor '11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17-'18-'19-'20-'21
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 16,557
Likes: 2,106
From: Peoria/Phoenix AZ
C6 of Year Finalist (performance mods) 2019
There are so many parts that are exclusive to the LS9, that converting from a LS3 would cost more than a LS9 crate motor. The supercharger is far from the only difference.
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 619
Likes: 9
From: Thonotosassa Florida
So, what is the cost of an LS9 crate motor and is there a core charge? Also would it be a brand new genuine GM motor ordered thru GM? Would it be a direct replacement for the LS3 motor?
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 13,592
Likes: 187
From: Hudson WI
NCM Sinkhole Donor
http://sdparts.com/details/gm-perfor...parts/19201990
Good luck!
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 3,602
Likes: 3
From: Cincinnati OH
Don't worry about having an "LS9" anymore than you should worry about having a "ZR1" when you do a conversion (it's still just a conversion).
Slap an edlebrock on there for $6K and spend another $3K on wheels and decent tires; then tell all your friends it's "the same as the LS9" given your power output. Ignore the fact that your base car will have none of the body panels, wheels, magnetic ride suspension, interior leather wrap or weight savings of a Z06 or ZR1 - IT WILLL have a ton of power though and you can always upgrade other things later.
IMHO: Skip the mods and conversions and jump on a well-priced Z06. It is VERY hard to replicate the balance and quality of a factory-build setup like the Z06 (even though many people feel they can - you just wind up spending more than the trade-in difference to get there).
I had an 07 coupe and thought about similar things, went ahead and upgraded to the Z06 and can honestly say it is way more car than I thought it would be based on the "stats." Of course, you may not think that - right up until you try out some twisties.
Slap an edlebrock on there for $6K and spend another $3K on wheels and decent tires; then tell all your friends it's "the same as the LS9" given your power output. Ignore the fact that your base car will have none of the body panels, wheels, magnetic ride suspension, interior leather wrap or weight savings of a Z06 or ZR1 - IT WILLL have a ton of power though and you can always upgrade other things later.
IMHO: Skip the mods and conversions and jump on a well-priced Z06. It is VERY hard to replicate the balance and quality of a factory-build setup like the Z06 (even though many people feel they can - you just wind up spending more than the trade-in difference to get there).
I had an 07 coupe and thought about similar things, went ahead and upgraded to the Z06 and can honestly say it is way more car than I thought it would be based on the "stats." Of course, you may not think that - right up until you try out some twisties.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 5,465
Likes: 1,050
From: Chester County Pennsylvania
2025 C5 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2025 Corvette of the Year Finalist - Modified
2024 C6 of the Year Winner - Modified
2020 C5 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Go with the '08 Z06, you will be much happier, less headaches.
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Drifting
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 1,527
Likes: 34
Factory Z's are properly engineered from the ground up for a good reason and backed with an warranty!
Aftermarket add on's have weak foundation and therefore not balanced. Power gratification will be temporary. For sure it is an accident waiting to happen! Many will die trying!
Aftermarket add on's have weak foundation and therefore not balanced. Power gratification will be temporary. For sure it is an accident waiting to happen! Many will die trying!