LT1 & LS1 Short Block Engine Buyers Guide - Stroker Ace

Adding displacement is one of the simplest and most effective means of adding horsepower to any engine, let alone an LT1 or LS1 that are both highly responsive to modification. Thankfully GM has provided us with a great selection of engine blocks to which we can add a significant amount of cubic inches by simply changing the rotating assembly. Gen II owners have their choice of either the two- or four-bolt-main LT1 block, which can achieve upwards of 396 cubes. Given the similar architecture for both Gen III and IV, these two generations of blocks can be used pretty much interchangeably. As a result, LS1 F-bodies and Corvettes are not limited to the stock LS1/LS6 block, or even the 6.0L LQ9 iron-block. As much as 427 or 440 cubes can be squeezed into your late model GM with a new factory Gen IV block (without re-sleeving). For your reading pleasure, GMHTP contacted the leading Gen II, III and IV engine builders in the country for a list of its most economical short-block packages under $6,000. Feast your eyes on a boatload of affordable bottom ends.

Briggs Performance
Billy Briggs has been responsible for building some of the fastest LS1s in the country while at his former employer, Wheel to Wheel Powertrain. The talented engine builder has now struck out on his own, and is putting his precise machining and meticulous assembly skills to good use with many LS combinations for various budgets and power levels. While more often associated with high-horsepower, custom motor builds, the Briggs Performance 418 short-block is designed for the more common man looking for up to 600 hp naturally aspirated or 750 hp with forced induction.