Cant find a reliable LSX builder. Anybody know of one?

[69/RS]

No...thats not the case. If some one just gives you a quote...do you just say yes? I don't.... I do my homework. I built many cars and motors and know what stuff cost.
I got a quote to have a complete turn key motor all the way down to the injectors for $42K with about 1000RWHP. I gave the build sheet to 2 different reputable company and got a quote from $28K to $30K. When I'm about to follow through......No response to phone calls or a couple emails. If I don't get a response after I leave 2 messaged and an email, I'm moving on.
If I'm going to spend $42K on a motor, I can get a TT NRE motor with 1600+ HP that is pretty much useless for my application.

Originally Posted by GregWeld

So the builders don't know what it costs to build the motor you want? Or is it that you just don't want to pay what it costs to build it. If the people in the business are telling you what it costs to build the motor... and you don't like what you're hearing... I'd say it may be you that has to figure it out.

[69/RS]

JR and his partner are on this forum...
Ask them for your self. I know he was having a new born at the time so he told me to give him a couple weeks but a month later I spoke with him on the phone and reminded him about it. He just never got back to me.....Thats it. Wasn't a big deal

Originally Posted by GregWeld

That would be my take on the situation. Business ain't that good that "everyone" is turning down a guys business... so some part of this story doesn't add up. Not slamming the OP... but it just doesn't make any sense.

[fleetus macmullitz]

Originally Posted by Sparks67

Another person that helped me out was Lance Nist of Pantera EFI. He is in Santa Ana, California. Lance operates an LS engine development company. I do know that Lance has worked with pro chargered LS engine, but it used a VVT cam. Made 100 hp over a regular cam. So you might contact him.

Jeff

Lance Nist is a member here; "Pantera EFI".

[John510]

Synergy in Fremont in good. Blu808 in San Jose.

Wegner, Texas Speed, MAST, etc.

[fleetus macmullitz]

Originally Posted by Sparks67

Yes, I know he is member here.
Jeff

I'm sure you do. However, the info is for the guy needing the engine, the OP.

[69/RS]

I completely understand what your saying and you are right about that but, I supplied the build sheet of what I wanted exactly and the cost is significantly different. Off by over $10K.
I'm in talks with someone now and seems pretty solid. I will update in the next few days. Thanks for the insights.

Originally Posted by Sparks67

Well, each builder will have their own brand of parts to use. So, if you think it will cost 27k. Actually, it will cost more based on parts selection. For example, my builder used a crower crank that was more expensive than the Callie crankshaft. If you are building an engine from a bare block, then you need to buy several sensors from GM for the engine. Not all bolts are available from ARP either, so it is hard for an engine builder to give you a quote.

Jeff

[camcojb]

If you're going to do a stroker LS please make sure and talk to Kurt Urban about using offset pin pistons. Dramatically quieter on the stroker motors. The LS have an issue with a longer stroke in that the piston goes so far out the bottom of the cylinder, it rocks in the bore when the piston changes directions. I put in the offset pin pistons as per his advice (bought everything from him) and the engine was completely quiet even when dead cold. The previous piston was not, had the typical piston slap issue which with my quiet exhaust drove me nuts.

[Vegas69]

Once you pick an engine builder and you should trust them if you do, take their advice. The best engine builders have parts they trust due to tear downs and inspections for freshen ups.

[Vegas69]

I'm certainly not saying to put your head in the sand and let them run with it. I'm talking about the meat and potatos. (Crank, rods, pistons, rings, valve springs, push rods, etc)

[214Chevy]

Originally Posted by 69/RS

.... I decided to deposit $27K into the builders account...

Originally Posted by 69/RS

....a little concerned about paying for an entire motor in advance. I have read of horror stories on some forums and don't want to be one.

I can't tell you who to go to in Cali, but I will give my .02 since you asked on this forum. Never give anybody that much money in advance. I don't care who they are and how many guys are swinging from there balls about how good and reputable they are. Not saying anything bad about any of the builders mentioned, but that's alot of money bro...just saying. 25-50% is a good down payment to let a builder know you are serious.