When GM decided to release its redesigned small-block V-8 for the 1997 model year, they went over-the-top with a new and improved design. This design was applauded by performance-minded engine builders everywhere. After being introduced into the LS family, it has become the most popular powerplant in GM's arsenal.
Brian Doyen from Hot Motorsports, in Santa Ana, California purchased a pre-owned, low mileage, 2000 GM 5.3L V-8 (325ci) truck engine that produced 285 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque from the factory. This Gen III engine features a deep skirted, six-bolt-main cast-iron block, with a pair of aluminum cathedral port cylinder heads. The heads were equipped with 2.00/1.55 valves in symmetrical intake and exhaust ports creating more efficient flow of the air/fuel mixture throughout the cylinder heads.
We snapped the photos while a Gen III 5.3L was enhanced by installing bolt-on LS performance components. The additions included: intake manifold, throttle-body, camshaft, lifters, pushrods, 1.7 roller rocker arms, double row roller timing chain and gears, shallow oil pan, remote oil filter adapter, high-volume oil pump, aluminum valve covers, headers, and 300-amp alternator.
Hot Motorsports engine specialist, Bob Ecker, disassembled the top end of the 5.3L Vortec V-8. The addition of these LS high-performance components will increase the horsepower and torque of this truck engine making it a real screamer. We hope to get some dyno numbers later, stay tuned.
With the engine dissassembled,...
With the engine dissassembled, a 13mm socket and 3/8-inch drive ratchet were used to tighten the Moroso windage tray to the bottom of the cast-iron block.
After sliding the Crane Cams...
After sliding the Crane Cams double timing chain sprockets onto the crankshaft, the sprag gear was also slid onto the crankshaft.
The Crane Camshaft (degree...
The Crane Camshaft (degree duration@.050 218-degrees, advertised duration 280-degrees, lobe center 112-degrees gross lift .531) was pre-lubed with Royal Purple cam assembly lube then carefully inserted into the cam bores and bearings.
A 13mm socket and 3/8-inch...
A 13mm socket and 3/8-inch drive ratchet were used to secure the camshaft block support.
The Crane double chain was...
The Crane double chain was installed onto the double camshaft and crankshaft timing gears.
The Moroso high volume oil...
The Moroso high volume oil pump was installed onto the crankshafts sprag gear, and then secured.