Happened to note the difference between interference and non-interference engines. i.e., pistons and other items do not crash into each other and ruin engine if they are non-interference.

What do we have?

I will ask my local Chev dealer but I thought I would embarrass myself, here, first.....

2004 Tahoe, 5.3L, 4wd, LT

Thank you

 

I know from experience that the old 350 small block was an interference engine.

 

I didn't see it listed in the specs, guess you could do the math with the numbers below
Let us know what you find out... I was always under the impression that most big block American vehicles were non-interference... but that I am sure has changed in the past few years with the demands placed on the engines fuel and performance wise...

 

A 5.3l is an interference motor. GM changed their design platform 1996.

 

Maybe some of the real low compression motors were non-interference.

 

Talked to our Chevy service advisor who said our motor is a push-rod. Not to worry.

 

So was my 350 L-82. When the cam stopped, so did the valves and the ones that were at full lift or close to it, hit the pistons. Not sure what having push-rods has to do w/ it. Might show that they don't know what they don't know.

 

OK, I'll ask another GM/Chevy dealer. I am such a mechanical/auto dope I did not question the reply.....even tho I have no idea what a push-rod engine is. (Do you have a bridge you want to sell me?)

 

Google

Push Rods & Lifters - Engine Builder Magazine

 

And for the visual inclined folks such as myself...
Camshaft & Valve Animation