LSX 454

[Pascal Mertens]

After weeks of doubt I've decided on the SBC replacement. I'm putting in an order for a 454 LSX. It is heavier than the LS7 but the experts convinced me it will be a much stronger base for a trackday vehicle and future upgrades. It will be fuel-injected and power should be around 580 hp/flywheel in standard NA condition.

Did I make the right choice ???

Edited by Pascal Mertens on Monday 12th October 13:02

[Pascal Mertens]

chuntington101 said:

The block is stronger because its the iron version. Did you get the standard or Tall deck? if its the standard deck you are going to be using an pretty long throw crank and you run the risk of increased piston wear. If its the tall deck you should be fine.

It will be a tall deck. The last time I checked with my engine guy he told me that I wouldn't need the adapter because it should fit the one I now have.

[Pascal Mertens]

So, what I understand from your answer is an LSX is more than needed or is it to heavy ?
I quite like the LSX because it will be strictly track only and I'm looking for a troublefree engine.
I know it will be 50kg extra but then again the car has zero unnecessary stuff so I still will be around the 1000kg mark.

[Pascal Mertens]

Hi Paul,


I understand what you're saying but getting the car to the level you're talking about is beyond my budget. I want a quick trackday-car not a top of the line competition-monster such as our Mac G-friends have... Well, to be honest I want that also but don't have the euro's to do so .

[Pascal Mertens]

ROWDYRENAULT said:

To much or to heavy? Both. lee

That leaves to heavy then...

I believe I know roughly what to expect from a 600 hp Ultima since I've done a few 1000 track-miles
with a 515 hp at the wheels-one. However I'm far from a driving God, I think that will be fine...

Edited by Pascal Mertens on Tuesday 13th October 16:39

[Pascal Mertens]

So guys, I've listened to all the advice and I'm waiting for a new custom-build LS3-engine wich will be ready within 8 weeks.

[Pascal Mertens]

Racingroj said:

Pascal
Something no one has mentioned here is that as you intend track day use I would strongly recommend a dry sump system. Cornering forces, especially on long bends, such as Corum at Snetterton, require a dry sump or oil starvation will occur with the obvious consequences. The LS3 needs one adding.

Thanks for the advice. I was already thinking of adding that and/or an accusump.

[Pascal Mertens]

Storer said:

I am curious about the costs these days of getting an LS3 to about 525hp with a dry sump.

When I did the costing there was very little difference between a tweaked LS3 d/s and an LS7.

The 7 had all the 'nice' quality parts in the motor to allow it to rev to 7300 and a bit more torque. With a little tinkering 600+ easily attainable too.

At the time the LS7 was about £8500 + VAT and the LS3 quickly rose to that sort of price with the tweaks.


Paul

My engine will be custom build in Canada around 575bhp and will come turnkey roughly around €11.000 (not included dry sump.)A 525 hp is about €9000. Prices exclude VAT. Because of currency exchange the USA-prices are higher.

Edited by Pascal Mertens on Tuesday 20th October 11:03

Edited by Pascal Mertens on Tuesday 20th October 11:43

[Pascal Mertens]

Thanks for all the advice. I didn't go for the LSX !

It became a 615bhp LS3 uprated with comp cams, hi tech push rods and dual valve spring kit.

The Canadian builder delivers it with a handheld computer.