Nothing to add, just wanted to say this is a great thread. I’ve wrestled with this exact topic and it’s helpful to see the opinions. The price jump on the GM crate versions has never seemed to me like the value play given the aftermarket options so it’s good to hash that out with you guys that have been there and done it.

AndrewB, I’ll hit you up when the time comes.

Sure thing. Let me know how I can be of service.

Andrew

I run a conversion shop in Daytona Beach and use a lot of crate motors. For general street use, get the 430 and have a reputable cam grinder ( I prefer Cam Motion) make you a cam for your specific application. Downside, it voids the GM warranty. The 480 and 525 cams both have a lot of overlap so idle quality isn't great and you'll always smell raw fuel. I like PSI for harnesses and E38 GM PCM. There's a lot to be had in the tune, so find a good tuner.