LS vs Big Block
03-26-2013 | 09:42 AM
#82
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Posts: 105
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From: Valley View, TX
The LS would be a perfect set up in a lighter boat, but that has already been stated. Wasn't or isn't there a guy on here that has 2 5.3's in his 28-30 cat that is running north of 100? These things are with out a doubt as strong as some aftermarket SBC_BBC parts. 2 lq4's or 9's could be done fairly cheap. Have the bottom ends balanced, put them back together, add new cams and push rods. Always gona be guys on both side of the fence as far as what is better, but it will surly be based on the set up and boat it is going in. I have a 6.0 block in the garage now with over 120k on it, the cross hatching on the walls still looks new. I see no reason why a properly tuned LS on a constant 10 lbs wouldn't last in a marine set up.. Also some 6.2's in the trucks are iron blocks.
John jr
John jr
I've got the 24' Skater with 2 5.3s in it. Bone stock engines right now. I've got intentions on doing some work to them but it didn't work out this winter. I've been dealing with my mother that recently passed away due to ALS.
It does run a little over 100 right now and gets great mileage.
I agree with a few other people on here, for a smaller boat you can't beat the LS engines. I think when you get to bigger boats that the advantage goes away in a hurry.
I think over 416" 550hp is a good place to start thinking about a big block. I would rather have a N/A big block than a boosted LS to get to 650hp... at least with weight not being as big of a factor in a bigger boat.
just my 2 cents.
03-26-2013 | 10:07 AM
#84
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Joined: Oct 2000
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From: Coastal North Carolina
...Merc tested the off the shelf GM ls engines but in stock auto form they are not as good as a BBC. either not enough torque (stock ls7), not strong enough to live in a boat (stock ls3), drinks too much fuel and has a short life (stock lsa)...
...thats why the LSx engine that is ruling auto drag racing only has a small place in marine compared to BBC.
...thats why the LSx engine that is ruling auto drag racing only has a small place in marine compared to BBC.
2) If you look at ALL the marine power manufacturers (Volvo Penta, Ilmor, Indmar, Pleasurecraft, etc.), you will fund that Mercury is very much out on their own. The LS-based engines are among Volvo Penta's biggest sellers, and Volvo-Penta is actually a larger supplier than Mercury among independent boatbuilders (ie, not owned by Brunswick).
The BBC is an awesome and legendary engine. I grew up watching them in drag, street and Can-Am cars. They ruled the roost for almost fifty years, but time is marching on...
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Retired! Boating full-time now.
Retired! Boating full-time now.
03-26-2013 | 10:20 AM
#85
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Posts: 105
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From: Valley View, TX
I don't mean to say there are production 650 hp BBCs out there, but a well built 598 is no slouch...
I'm just saying I think both engines have their place.
03-26-2013 | 11:38 AM
#86
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03-26-2013 | 12:40 PM
#87
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The LSA has good peak HP but gets low end power from boost...that kills the fuel economy
The 6.0 is heavy and makes less power because the bore is a touch too small.
These are the engines merc was testing...not that impressive compared to BBC
03-26-2013 | 02:27 PM
#89
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I just wanted to get on here and give you guys a little more information and to offer to answer any questions or give some opinions.
The motor in the article is on race gas. It is a high dollar piece because of the stresses and trials a Trophy truck goes through. This would be overkill in many areas for most marine enthusiast. A few notable points:
ARE dry sump
Winberg Crank
Dyer Rods
T&D Custom Shaft rockers
Solid Roller
All of these are big $$ items that would not be needed in most builds. Also, this motor makes peak power at 6100-6300 rpms. A very early peak for a typical 800hp small block, especially considering the single plane and solid roller.
We do LOTS of big blocks. Trust me if we are bias either way it is in favor of BBC.
The LS has advantages for sure, its light weight and compact size make it a great piece for our Trophy truck.
I think for most, if a BBC is an option, over about 700-750 flywheel it becomes a no brainer over the LS. The money it takes to make over that NA on a small block in general really becomes hard to justify IMO.
So guys I will monitor this thread and please ask away I am glad to help.
The motor in the article is on race gas. It is a high dollar piece because of the stresses and trials a Trophy truck goes through. This would be overkill in many areas for most marine enthusiast. A few notable points:
ARE dry sump
Winberg Crank
Dyer Rods
T&D Custom Shaft rockers
Solid Roller
All of these are big $$ items that would not be needed in most builds. Also, this motor makes peak power at 6100-6300 rpms. A very early peak for a typical 800hp small block, especially considering the single plane and solid roller.
We do LOTS of big blocks. Trust me if we are bias either way it is in favor of BBC.
The LS has advantages for sure, its light weight and compact size make it a great piece for our Trophy truck.
I think for most, if a BBC is an option, over about 700-750 flywheel it becomes a no brainer over the LS. The money it takes to make over that NA on a small block in general really becomes hard to justify IMO.
So guys I will monitor this thread and please ask away I am glad to help.
03-26-2013 | 02:47 PM
#90
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,327
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From: Merritt Island, FL
