4.8 to L33 5.3

[JohnDaMan]

Hey guys,

I have a 2003 1500 4x4 RC truck with the 4.8. I'm looking for a bit more power and like the idea of less weight so I'm going to drop a L33 5.3 in its place. I've researched this a bit and know everything will swap over mechanically, and I'll just use my 4.8 wiring harness on the new engine. What I'm wondering about is what are a few good things to do while the motor is out? Converter (Trailblazer)? Transmission mods? A mild cam? The future plans for the truck would be a STS turbo kit so if I swap the cams I'd want a turbo friendly grind as well. I'll get a tune once the swap to correct the A/F ratio. Let me hear your thoughts and opinions!

Thanks
John

[ridnlow]

Do you already have the motor?? If not why not go with a 6.0.. Might as well go big the first time and not wish you did..Ive got a buddy with the l33 and even though it runs nicely esp after we tuned it.., i think the 6.0 would still be a better starting point.. If already have the l33, and plan to add a turbo, probably want to look at a FLT tranny or even a 4l80e.. the tranny is definetely the weak link in these trucks.. good luck on whatever you decide..

[JohnDaMan]

I thought about the 6.0, but I just don't want one of those. I can get the L33 with low low miles for $1k. I think gas mileage would suffer too much with the 6.0 and beyond that I would definitely have to upgrade the 4l60e and the rear end. I'm thinking of the truck as a whole if I swap the engines over and if I go the 6.0 route I doubt the current transmission will hold up long. Now with a few mods it should hold up well behind the 5.3 for awhile until I boost it.