Hey just trying to get an estimate on what it would cost to rebuild a LS1. I'm not planning on doing one yet (cross my fingers) but I do have 213,000 on it now, and just wanna know what im looking at. I wouldnt be doing any of it myself because I dont have all the equipment.

If I did do it, Here is what I'd be thinking of doing.

• replace heads with LS6, as well as LS6 intake, possibly a Fast 92mm
• new pistons (stock parts)
• machine crank
• replace oil pump
• replace clutch

This might be a pointless thread because there are alot of variables, like hourly service rates, any other repairs that may be needed, etc. Any good range of the cost from anyone that had someone else do a rebuild, and if you did, what did you have done?

 

also, with how many miles are on it, or assuming i can make it possibly 250,000 before a rebuild, would I need to replace the cam shaft? maybe thats a good time to upgrade that as well?

 

There is no way to quote a high miles rebuild unless you just assume it needs everything. The condition of the current motor has too many unknowns. Most likely it will need a CAM and it will need the cylinders bored Heads will need valve guide (and a valve job) even the lifter bores could need attention It would be easy to invest 8k to rebuild a high miles motor if a machine shop does all the work.

FYI buying a Remanufactured motor is always cheaper then rebuilding a high miles motor. In industry many companies replace motors based on mileage. I have yet to see a company rebuild a motor they always just install a remanufactured motor because it makes more sense. The only time it is worth to build your own is when you want a lot of upgrades.

I have built a lot of motors but I am not a LS1 expert. This post is based on general engine rebuilding.

 

thanks for the info!

 

LSX motors are a little more expensive then a SBC to rebuild however you are on the right track. LS6 heads can be found for cheap and most shops can clean them up and inspect them both for under $150 in labor. Do not waste your money on a FAST manifold since your doing stock internals. A LS6 manifold is half the cost and will not limit your HP at this level. A LS6 hot cam kit or a a larger cam if you prefer is a must at this point. With 220K you might as well replace it and you can buy a upgraded cam for the same price as a stock one.

For the bottom end your looking at probally $1200 ish
For the Heads your looking at probally $450ish
For the cam and manifold figure about $650ish

With the cam, head, manifold upgrade your looking at 40-70 horsepower gains depending on how agressive you go with the cam.

If you dont have headers get them now!!!