5.3 on the way...

[SRD art]

Just thought I'd share...

I was working out a deal to put together a 406 TPI motor for my wagon project, build thread in my signature. The TPI was almost free and I have a fresh 406 short block in storage so it sounded like a good bet. But recently the guy with the TPI parts flaked out. I contacted a friend with connections at salvage yards to see what might be available and he scored me a 40,000 mile 5.3 complete with accessories, harness and computer at his cost of $500!! I would have been close to that in gaskets, head bolts, oil pan, etc just to assemble the 406!

Here's what I'm thinking- the priceless experience of learning how to do an LS swap, just as much power if not more than the TPI motor, fuel economy, driveabilty, low miles, and turbo adaptability later on when the wallet allows. Nothin' but score!!!

 

[Longroof79]

Ben,
That's a great deal on the 5.3 LS motor. I think you'll be pleased with the performance and reliability. It also doesn't take much to get 400 hp out of these motors. However, speed equipment for the LS motors are still abit on the pricey side.
I would love to do an LS swap in my wagon. I will be sure to follow your progress.

Would this go into the '83 Malibu or the Cutlass Cruiser?

 

[LSCustoms]

the 5.3 is the way to go, the put a hair dryer on it, for a really good experience

 

[lildudefl]

I thought about doing the same thing, i think i am going to do that same swap in a year or so after i map out my build

 

[SRD art]

I will be documenting this very closely as this is my school project and part of my resume for future employers. Hopefully it will inspire you guys too.

It's for the Cutlass wagon. I talked to the guy with the 83 Malibu wagon for sale Tuesday -a week and a half ago. I called that Friday to go look at it and he said it sold Thursday evening. 🙁 🙁 I REALLY wanted that car but you win some you lose some. Looks like I'm gonna grab an S10 Pickup to use as transpo while the wagon's apart.

 

[ROKTWGN]

Nice score on the engine. I thought I did good when I got mine for 550 goin through my works business account.
I got mine mounted and wired in my 79 mali wagn, just now working on the fuel system, will be watching your build with intrest.

 

[Longroof79]

It's for the Cutlass wagon. I talked to the guy with the 83 Malibu wagon for sale Tuesday -a week and a half ago. I called that Friday to go look at it and he said it sold Thursday evening. I REALLY wanted that car but you win some you lose some. Looks like I'm gonna grab an S10 Pickup to use as transpo while the wagon's apart.

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Sorry to hear that the Malibu wagon deal fell thru. S-10's are good beaters and parts haulers. Good luck!
What trans are you going to use with the LSX motor?

 

[SRD art]

A TH350 with a manual valve body and a 2400 stall converter. I have a 2.75 center and a 3.50 center for the 9" I'll be putting in, so for daily cruising I'll run the 2.75 and for track time swap in the 3.50. Eventually when the wallet allows I want to swap to a 5 or 6 speed. We'll have to see what's available after I rebuild the toy budget. :lol: