thanks guys for the input. I know I can find the 5.3 with tranny pretty cheap and maybe the 6.0 again with tranny.
Is there a certain years to look for? The one I have my eye on is an 2001 5.3 is the 02 a better year I read on here something about the computer?
If the choice was there would you go for the 5.3 or the 6.0? common sense tell me bigger is better but in this case I didnt know the problems or if one is easier modded.

I am afraid the true ls1 is going to be quite a bit more expencive.
again thanks
Dave