Does anyone know if they make iron blocks for the LSx motors? I was planning on building an LSx motor, but don't like the idea of an aluminum block. Anybody at aLL??

 

The 5.3 and 6.0 blocks out of the newer full-sized GM trucks and SUVs are LS1s, but all iron. All the usual parts from the LS1 swap into them, and so forth. That's how you hear of guys with LS1s running 427 strokers, they're using the iron blocks.

I believe the engine codes are LQ4 and LQ9, respectively. But don't hold me to that

 

Not true, some shops use the C5R aluminum block for the large displacement LS1's.

 

does it make a difference wich block you use?

 

Well, that's a long-shot exception. The C5-R block is ridiculously priced and most average hot-rodders can't afford one, let alone the work that it needs done.

Also remember, the C5-R block may be a direct bolt-on, but the parts aren't. The heads are different degreed than a regular LS1 and swapping out most topside bolt-ons, including heads, won't work.

 

Thanks guys! Also, how big, cubes wise, is a 6.0? Maybe I'll use that instead of the 355 I planned on. Actually, that 427 stroker sounds fun

Late!

 

6 cubic decimeters, actually 5967 cubic centimeters, or for those of you that think in old money, 364 cubic inches.

 

MTI makes an aluminum blocked 427. It comes with a 2 year warrany also. They also have 427 iron blocks.

 

There's a company out there now that offers a re-sleeve for aluminum LS1s that want to go big cube. Over 400 cu. in. available.

 

This is for the 99+ blocks, correct? My 98 has the thinner cylinder walls, and from what I understand, can only be sleeved so much. Limiting my displacement options...

 

No they take the factory sleeves right out and slap these BIG ones into your block.
I haven't checked into it extensively but I'd assume that the heads clamp the new sleeves in place like in a big diesel tractor or truck motor.

It ain't cheap but it's not C5R money either.