5.4 Rebuild: new built short block or upgrade mine?

speedy2012

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Hey guys , I've read a few posts on guys who have engine issues inquiring about rebuilds . Sorry if this has been completely covered already .
I have a 2012 GT500 with the 5.4 - upgraded supercharger ( VMP Gen 2 R ) , injectors , headers , Dual fan H/E , boost pump , 1050 ID , and some other things .
Engine is running well ( fingers crossed ) , but I really want to upgrade the rotating internals BEFORE something catastrophic happens .
I see upgrade kits on various sites ( rods , pistons , Cobra Jet crank , etc ) for like $3,500 & up ,and was wondering if there is one over any other recommended .
I'm looking more for strength than huge HP gains - but of course a little more power wouldn't be bad . I'm currently just over 700 at the wheels - about 20 lbs of boost , on E85 .

If I wind up around 800 or so with a really strong bottom end , that's great .Not planning on tracking the car much if at all .

My question is - is it almost cheaper to buy a completely built short block - I see they are going for around 12- 13 $K - of course then you have shipping cost plus install $$ ....

I would think just having my short block rebuilt with the forged internals - plus engine removal and install should be cheaper ?

Of course then there are the other questions . like should I really go with the upgraded timing chain guides and other parts - 8mm to 10 mm , or is that really not necessary , does the block have to be sleeved , etc ?I guess there is almost an endless list of potential upgrades - just wondering which ones are really important ...

I would upgrade the oil pump gears .

I have a really good tuner , but don't think he does the engine stuff .

I live in the NY/ Long Island area .

Would like to try to get this done for under $15K or so - don't know if that is realistic ....

Thanks in advance for any input .
 

coposrv

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L and M is I believe in Pa but shouldn’t be too far away from you. That would be my first phone call. But yeah. Absolutely better off doing anything before it blows up.


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me32

BEASTLY SHELBY GT500 TVS
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If you dont want the car down for 1/2 year then buy a built long block. If you dont care how long the car is down the have yours built. Personally at 700hp on E85 your fine unless your running a too aggressive tune. I say enjoy the car, save your money and plan your build with the shop you want to do the work.
 

speedy2012

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Thanks - I'm looking/shopping around now for options . I'm not in any mad rush to do it - probably in Oct/Nov , after the "season " , this way if the car is down for a while it's not a big deal ....
 

stkjock

Corn Powered 900 HP!
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L&M motor in mine for 10 years, Mike knows his stuff and builds good motors. I had to do mine, thanks OEM oil pump, if you do build a motor upgrade the oil pump gears for sure.
 

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