i have just started to build a street rod. i have been offered a low mileage LT1 at a very good price, but, after talking to painless wiring about a fuel management wiring harness they recommended not to use this motor because of a water pump seal leaking and ruining the distributor, they suggested a 5.3L saying they used it for a test engine and it was very good. what do you think. i would be thankful for any input.

 

The LT1 was merely a 350 L-block with a 4-bolt main, which, while the original LT1 had no extra power, was more easily fitted to more powerful components.

Originally designed for luxury Caprice models to handle more power when called for, the engine was labeled "Luxury Touring 1" and could be more easily retrofitted with the stronger engine components.

Soon the demand for the engine increased, and it was seeing duty in Corvettes, Camaros, and trucks.

So while a 5.3L Vortec boasts almost twice the horse power stock, the older 180-200HP LT1 can be more easily adapted to more bolt-on horsepower, which is readily available in the performance aftermarket, due to it's overwhelming 30-year plus popularity.