I've been debating what i should do as far as gaining power. I think I am going to swap out the 4.3 for another motor, but can't decide which. I was wanting to do a 5.3, but i was wanting to know what motor is the smallest in external dimensions. The 4.8, 5.3, and 6.0 are all the same, I think, and the 305 and the 350 are also. that being said, I would like the most power possible, with the lightest motor.
Thanks in advance for the help.

 

Well, you don't have it listed but the lightest and most powerful engine would be an LS9, though you could get by with an LS1 for a lot less $$$.

 

I'm thinking the LS1 is similar to the 350 in some way right? it uses aluminum parts? right?
And it came in the camaro SS and Z28s right?

 

Yes, the LS1 is an aluminum block and heads and came in '97 to '05 Vettes and '98 to '03 V8 Camaros (SS and Z28) and V8 Trans Ams/Firebirds. It is actually 346 cubic inches but is called a 5.7 liter.

It has nothing in common with the previous 350 that has been around for years other than being a GM engine and being a pushrod V8. The 4.8, 5.3 and 6.0 truck engines are based all off of the LS1, along with the othe LS engines that followed.

Stock LS1 is 300 to 350 hp, depending on what vehicle it comes out of (though there has been a rumor that all of them are 350 hp). Torque I believe is around 345 ft/lbs. Many, many hotrodders are running them and quite a few S10 guys.

Here's a link to learn a little bit more:
http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/conver...-ls1ers-2.html

 

That cleared up alot of questions. thanks for the link. So, which of the above listed motors are the smallest in external size?

 

And with a LS1 there is a MASSIVE aftermarket. Plus lots of other GM parts will bolt on, such as LS6 heads, intake manifold, etc. LS1s are really badass, and not too difficult to work on. Like AJBert said, completely different from the 350s most people think of. If you've got the funds to do a LS swap, do it. You will not regret it.

 

before you think about putting in a new engine, remember that you have the 4.3 which is a great motor. the pistons are the same size of a 350 and it still has a ton of power.

consider building up your v6.

-new cam
-headers
- intake
- exhaust