Thanks 40! I still have a lot to learn about the LS engines. Like you. I wanted something bigger than a 5.3. However, all the folks I've talked with say that the little engines are stronger than you would think (especially with a little tune on the ECM). The big difference seems to be that everybody says they don't make as much torque down low as a 350 SBC, but make up for it with a higher rev range than a typical stock based 350. The stock LS heads have pretty big ports compared to a typical Gen 1 350.

Everybody recommended gearing them so that you can use the revs. Just about to a man, they said to let'em rev and you'll be surprised. I did wind up with something a little bigger than a 5.3 and I'm hoping I will be surprised. I'll post that part of the story ASAP.