Re: My budget LQ4/4L80E build!
Re: My budget LQ4/4L80E build!
Yes, the LQ4's stock parts are quite capable, just don't push the boost too far on the stock pistons. Heck, the stock LQ4 with longtubes and a tune is in the 380 to 400 hp range.
As you hopefully know, the stock pistons are only good to about 5 or 6 psi. After that, they're a known weakness. There's a CTS-V sitting in a speed shop near me with a rear mount system (twins) that's waiting for a new motor, it was running 8psi. Ran great for 2 years on 6 psi, but the owner cranked up the boost to 8psi and it let go in a couple weeks (but it reportedly ran great up until it went).
And, I didn't notice the ARP rod bolts in the build description, so you have my apologies for recommending something you already had.
EDIT: The good side is, you're running a iron block. If you crank the boost up and loose a set of pistons, you should be able to just do a simple .030" overbore and put fresh slugs in it. With the alum block LSx motors, you're usually looking at a new block (pistons wipe out the bores, bores can't be cleaned up, now you need a new block, if you need a new block, might as well go forged and then you might as well go.....)
'JustDreamin'
