My '92 L98 is getting tired with 170K. I'm interested if anyone can recommend a reliable reasonably priced crate replacement with 300-325 hp that will work with the stock TPI and engine computer. Next question - any suggestions on what needs done for the tranny not to grenade? Thanks.

 

This doesnt have prices,but will give you an idea of whats out there.

http://www.gmperformanceparts.com/Pa...l.jsp?engine=0

I like the 350 HO with the 330HP 380LB/FT of torque....the only problem is that its running Vortec style heads and you'll need an aftermarket base plenum because the bolt locations are different and they only have 8 instead of 10.

As far as the transmission goes,a good rebuild with a decent shift kit and external trans cooler and you'll be fine.

 

Scoggin Dickey has a TPI base to fit Vortech heads. It would probably make a fine package. You might need to learn how to reprogram the ECM though. It's not that hard anymore, especially with the stuff out there for TPI by Craig Moates.

 

I bought the Scoggin Dickey crate Vortec TPI engine. It's rated at 360hp and 412lb ft. http://www.sdparts.com/product/SD360...ripEngine.aspx

But if I had to do it all over I'd get, for a really easy install, the ZZ4 with a hot cam http://www.sdparts.com/catalog/crate...ZZ4Engine.aspx

Or the 350HO http://www.sdparts.com/product/12486...ateEngine.aspx

 

The HOT cam will require a custom computer chip. The ZZ4 cam will not. However the ZZ4 heads are the same as the L98 Corvette heads and have their own problems.

 

What kind of problems do you mean. I am thinking about the ZZ4 for my 91 eventually and probably won't go with the Fast burn because they are vortech. What is the problem with the L98 heads?

 

The L98 heads have no exhaust crossover, so you'll need to hook up an external EGR like the Corvettes do, and use an aftermarket TPI intake. They are also missing a bolt hole so you'll need to drill and tap one for the serpentine belt accessories. Lastly, they have the old style intake bolt angle like on the '86 and earlier perimeter bolt heads, but if you're using an aftermarket TPI intake for the EGR, you'll be fine.

One final thought, if you're expecting to make a lot of power with the L98 heads, forget it. You'll be a lot further ahead with Trick Flow or AFR heads. The L98 heads are great for a stocker or daily driver. They dont flow enough for a street/strip car, unless you're happy with mid-13's.