5.3L V8 to LS1 Conversion

**fbodyNATION** · 06-30-2014, 05:13 PM

I just purchased a 5.3L V8 from a 2004 Chevy Tahoe I Want to Convert it to a LS1 engine I already have the intake fuel rails etc what other parts do I need? Im going to get it rebuilt from the inside out this is my first build so Im kind of curious to know which way I should go first should I buy the performance parts & send it to a shop? I know a good LSx shop here in Houston that does all kinds of LS conversions & other LSx work I was thinking about letting them do the rebuild I dont want H/C but maybe a few performance parts inside the engine to bump up horsepower but nothing too crazy

**98TransAmWs-6** · 07-02-2014, 12:46 PM

You'll definitely need all the accessories not sure if you would need the water pump, power steering stuff, and alternator if you aren't going to install the truck one or of they are that much different or not. There is probably more and I will post when I think of it.

**Firebirdjones** · 07-03-2014, 04:54 AM

If this engine is going in a 4th gen Fbody then I'm sure you've already been told you'll need all those accessories from your 4th gen to transfer to the truck engine, as well as your oil pan setup. Hopefully this is an engine swap with your current 5.7 and everything is there for you to swap over. If not you'll be searching for the Fbody accessory drive setup, not an easy task anymore if you want OEM stuff. Plenty of aftermarket out there but costs $$$

The 5.3 is just a small bore engine. Since you are rebuilding, during the rebuild, and this being a cast iron block, it can be sonic checked and bored to the 3.9" size of the 5.7's if that's what you prefer.