n00b needs some help

[PJneedsLS1]

As the title states . . .I'm a newbie here. I've been browsing for a couple months and now as time is ticking away, I decided to join the forum.

Enough of the story. . .

I'm planning to build a nice LSx powered truck. A little show, LOTTA GO, and still all truck.

Since I autoX and track my car, I would need this do all vehicle to tow about 4000 lbs worth of race stuff to and from race tracks.

So who's gonna help me plan the build ?

Here's what I have in mind so far:

Phase 1
90-95 Regular Cab Shortbed
LSx
6speed

Phase 2
Lowered Suspension

Phase 3
4.10 posi
20" wheels
Baer Brake kit (with rear disc converison)

Phase 4
Motor Goodies

Goals:
450hp
Daily Driver
Lowered (nice ride,aspirations of canyon carver like abilities (not slammed))
Reliability
Gas mileage (WHO CARES!!! )
RPM Limit 7G (Is this too much?)

As far as gauges, I always wanted to do a custom AutoMeter Setup.

The plan has a budget of $10K.

Does this sound like a neat build up or what

So what do you guys think? Am I ?

--PJ

[RedHeartbeat]

Canyon carver, huh? You're going to have to get the center of gravity really low for that. I'd seriously consider an 4L80e automatic if you're going to pull a trailer. The 6 speed will not handle the trailer load for too long unless you come across a viper 6 speed, then we're talking a good strong transmission for pulling loads. Not to mention clutch leg fatigue in stop and go traffic when traveling. You sure don't want to get to your destination and be so fatigued you can't enjoy the true race car. LQ9 6.0L sounds like a good motor to start with and bolt-ons will have you in the 450 hp range rather quickly. You'll need some headers, a nice cam, a throttle body, Nelson tune of course, cold air intake and some motor mounts and you should have a nice start.

[PJneedsLS1]

hehe . . . I was joking about the canyon carver part

I don't mind shifting gears when towing (former truck driver). I've seen some dense stop and go during those days. . .

So a LQ9 6.0 would better, huh . . . interesting.

Any thoughts of a lowered suspension and towing?

--PJ

[rosscob]

I pull a 5000lb trailer alot. I added some air bags to assist the leaf springs when the back is loaded. I've had zero problems. The air bags keep the stance level with as much as 1500lb in the bed.

Lq9 will certainly be cheaper than an LS1. The extra couple of cubes will help with the trailer also.

[PJneedsLS1]

Thank's Ross!!

Your truck looks good!!!

I've been looking around for LQ9 prices to get some numbers to finish my budget for this build. Talk about a scarce engine . . .

More than likely by that time I get around to doing this there will be more available . . .

Keep the suggestions coming

--PJ

[rosscob]

Your welcome & thanks.

May I also recommend the Hotchkins Suspension Kits. A friend and I have lowered a few trucks, and that is what seems to work the best. If you want a canyon carver that is.

I would not drop that year truck more than 2/4.

I would do a bell tech spindle up front.
Hotchkins sway bars all the way around.
Hotchkins springs all the way around.

If you lower the front more than 2 inches clearance becomes a problem on steep driveways etc, and you lose some of your drivability.

[PJneedsLS1]

How would that do with towing?

--PJ

[rosscob]

As long as you add the air helper springs it should work great. The four inch rear drop without a c-notch puts the axle really close to the frame. Even small loads cause them to bump.

The air bags prevent it from ever hapening without taking away any of the driving characteristics of the springs.

[WHT6.0HD]

Welcome

Do you think the 10K budget is enough. does the 10K just cover the LQ9 or do you have the truck included in the budget?

FYI- I have an 01 HD LT CCSB truck with the6.0 LQ4 for sale. No dyno # but with nelson hot tune, headers, exhust, intake, 160 stat, towing package, 4L80E,3.73 gear (have a 4.10 in the box) should be close to 350HP at the crank (just a guess dont flame me to bad).

The truck is the LT package with every option including leather and added killer sound. May not fit your budget but if you want a headache free transition into a truck that will pull your trailer.

PM me if you want info or pics

Thanks
Jeff