2003 Silverado 4.3L. What would be the better choice?

[yournamehere018]

I am a finalist for a full ride scholarship to tech school next year so if I get it, I will have a LOT of extra money to throw around. I drive a 2003 Silverado with a 4.3L and a 5 speed. I was looking into dropping an LS1 or maybe a 5.3 or 6.0 into it with a T56 (or maybe automatic) behind it until the other day. I came across the LC3 Northstar and I really like the idea of close to 500 horsepower from 267 cubic inches. How hard would it be to swap in? Will it bolt up to a regular rwd transmission? Would it be worth the $12,000 that GM wants for it or should I just forget the cool factor and get an LS motor?

[SCIV]

I thought northstars mounted horizontally?

[ChevyLee]

I thought northstars mounted horizontally?

Yea they are. Have you seen the horizontal 5.3 mount? Its sick.

I don't know if you can pull it off with the north star. I would just do a ls7 if you want that much power from a stock motor.

[thunder550]

The aftermarket and low cost of the LS based motors makes them well worth it IMO. Stick a 6.0L in there and take the $10k you save and use it for more mods

[PurpleMinivan]

This will drop right in...440cid LS7 Alum. or LSX Iron Stroker Long Block