Help in rebuilding 5.3

[Rancherkid33]

Well i got a 5.3 with alot of miles for free and wanted to rebuild it. I have it stripped to the bare block and need help finding pistons and other parts. What parts would give me the best bang for my buck? Thanks

[RedHeartbeat]

get it bored out to LS1 5.7L specs and buy a good set of used LS1 pistons for it. Of course you're going to need to have it balanced with the different pistons. If you want to go all out then get a 4" stroker to add to an LS1 piston set for 383 CI.

[Rancherkid33]

I would have to get a new crank right? Plus the heads would need to be ported and polished wouldn't they? How much power would i be looking at with a 383?

[RedHeartbeat]

yeah, new crank, rods and pistons for a 383. Heads don't have to be ported but ported heads will build power on most any engine. New bearings for all rotating parts plus a bigger cam. Don't forget cam bearings, too, full circle type not puzzle piece stockers. I'd suggest DuraBond bearings. Get coated bearings and pistons if possible.