5.3, 6.0, 6.2...which one should I go with?

R

Rhynojku

New member
I'm blessed to be able to make this decision. Rod started knocking only got 61k and now I don't see any other options. What are current ls runners opinions?
 
6.2 is probably the best option. I wouldn't do the 5.3 at all. We're seeing a lot of lifter roller pitting, camshaft lobe pitting, and lots of oil consumption issues.
 
IMO it depends on what type of build you have and what type of power your trying to accomplish.

I know for me if I had the option I would do a 5.3 for my 2 door. Why? Because my jeep is a lot lighter and doesn't need the power of a 6.2, I don't plan on going larger than 37's, and it would prob be more cost effective.
 
I feel like since my mechanic has a 6.2 then it's a sign. If I go with the 5.3 it could get started in a few weeks , the 6.0 and 6.2 gotta be rebuilt and it won't be a month or more before he could start..I won't be doing any crazy off roading but I can't see putting money into the 3.8. So the dream of a ls is of unfortunately accompany the k nightmare of a blown motor.
 
WJCO said:
6.2 is probably the best option. I wouldn't do the 5.3 at all. We're seeing a lot of lifter roller pitting, camshaft lobe pitting, and lots of oil consumption issues.
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The 5.3L isn't the only one experiencing problems. While it's out, just swap lifters and get rid of the AFM stuff. It's not that difficult while it's out.

That being said, there's no replacement for displacement :rock:
 
You could probably find a barely used 3.6 and tranny for half the cost of the 5.3 swap. I'm not so sure the 5.3 is enough of an improvement over the 3.6 to be worth the hassle and expense of putting it in.
 
Havoc40 said:
The 5.3L isn't the only one experiencing problems. While it's out, just swap lifters and get rid of the AFM stuff. It's not that difficult while it's out.

That being said, there's no replacement for displacement :rock:
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We've still seen a lot of hardness issues on the 5.3 lifter rollers with the non AFM setup. Regardless, the AFM components have tons of issues too.
 
Motech recommends 6.0 for most people. Should be less expensive, but if you've got the $$, why not 6.2
 
WJCO said:
We've still seen a lot of hardness issues on the 5.3 lifter rollers with the non AFM setup. Regardless, the AFM components have tons of issues too.
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I know, it's a Delphi problem that's not focused around any particular engine. The non AFM lifters are shared by all flavors. I manufacture performance lifters for a living, with LS engines being our hottest commodity. Deal with this stuff day in and day out.

I'd put in a nice little cam suited for a Jeep, some quality valve train components, and call it a day. I'd go with an aluminum block over cast. It'll be roughly the same weight as the 3.6 so spring selections will be similar.
 
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Havoc40 said:
I know, it's a Delphi problem that's not focused around any particular engine. The non AFM lifters are shared by all flavors. I manufacture performance lifters for a living, with LS engines being our hottest commodity. Deal with this stuff day in and day out.
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Lol. Good deal. I work on the inspection side of mechanical claims for extended warranties. And yes, these lifters, day in day out. Interesting to hear some info on the root of the problem. It's job security for me, but if I can save somebody headaches and money, I'll definitely steer them clear of problem engines. The 5.3 lifters and the GM trans wave plates are sure keeping us busy in claims right now.
 
Money isn't an issue so why is it even a question?
When is the last time someone said, " Y'know, this damn thing just runs too good. I wish I woulda put the smaller motor in it".

No one. Ever. ;)
 
I'm doing a LC9 5.3 but I removed the AMF but am keeping the VVT. Using a Comp Cam limiter, cam, pushrods and lifters.
I will be able to use reg, should make 400-430HP and get better mpg's than the larger motors once custom tuned.

Win-Win in my book.
 
Sharkey said:
You could probably find a barely used 3.6 and tranny for half the cost of the 5.3 swap. I'm not so sure the 5.3 is enough of an improvement over the 3.6 to be worth the hassle and expense of putting it in.
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There's an idea. As the miles begin to rack up on my 07 I might have to look into this option. Wonder if anyone has done the pentastar for 3.8 swap successfully and what the cost would be. Of course, if money were no option, the V8 would be awesome, just not sure I could ever afford it.
 
I remember reading somewhere the you can't swap a 3.6 in for a 3.8, the computer wouldn't work and there was no way to adapt it. This might have changed since I read that though.
 
A 5.3 built properly with good parts is a great cheap ls, and can be a reliable 400 hp motor. And if you can get lucky and get a lm4 out of a trail blazer and a few other models you get an aluminum block.
 
Joker151 said:
I remember reading somewhere the you can't swap a 3.6 in for a 3.8, the computer wouldn't work and there was no way to adapt it. This might have changed since I read that though.
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Damn modern engines and their computers lol. That does make sense and probably the reason I haven't heard of anyone doing it.
 
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