I have decided to go LS, and skip SBC this time around.

[Ziegelsteinfaust]

Well my 383 is beginning to have blow by issues. Along with tuning issues as it's compression ratio is to high for carb/distributor. This weekend I went through 2 tanks of gas, and 3 carbs trying to get rid of tip in knock at cruising rpm. In a sense I succeeded, but it is still there. So I have time to get a new motor.

1. On the computer side of a LS swap. People say the earlier computer is better since it has only 1 computer vs 2 of the later version. Which I like for cleanliness. So how does the Holley Terminator Maxx system line up against factory? I have read it does a few extra things, and some like that. Others like the factory due it does what they need. I am talking a 425 hopefully 450 hp 4.8 or 5.3, and maybe. Just maybe adding nitrous or going turbo for 1/4 mile track time.

I like the Holley since it seems cheaper as it comes with everything, and I would have to buy all the solutions for the factory computer.

2. Early vs late engine strength. Stuff I am reading says the later engines are slightly stronger. Late engines from my reading today late engines with arp studs are good for 600, and earlier something like 550?. I plan to rev to 6500, but I would like a little head room for safety.

3. Are car manifolds worth the money over a truck manifold? Or even going to a FAST or other comparable intake?

I wouldn't mind one for the visuals when the hood is popped, but I have to be cost conscious to hit my high points on the build.

4. california gas. How much compression is safe for a truck that does get used as a truck occasionally. The 4.8/5.3's compression ratios have ranged from 9.1 to 9.9 to 1 over there generations. Is 10.5 safe on 91 octane only diet. Or even 11-1 or is that getting to much on the edge for these things.

I am talking hauling 1200 pounds or towing 7000 pounds.

5. C10 swap set ups or mounts. Are any of the kits better then others, or ones to stay away from.

6. Cam LSA. With out going into tuning extreme mode. Is a 110 LSA cam easy for a novice to navigate through, or do I need a 112 maybe a 114?

7. Low mileage vs rebuild. Any opinions on this? Take a 4.8 or 5.3 re-ring the engine, studs, and swap in a good cam. Or go for a complete rebuild.

8. Better years or models for accessories to fit a square body C10. Or are they all about the same.

9. I have used ebay, CL, facebook, and car-part.com to look for engines. Is there another source I should know of?

Any thing else I should look at? I am looking to start buying parts, but I need to finish my homework. When the deals pop up.

I am still thinking boring a 4.8 to 5.7 bore size, but it is not a requirement.