converting my 5.3 to a 6.0

[TWITCH101]

So I think my 5.3 is on its way down the hill and I'm going to try and find an lq4 or lq9 to replace her.

I've done my HW for the most part and figured out what I'm getting into as far as getting a new clutch plate and an ecm tune. Other than that it seems to be plug and play.

What I'm wondering is would I be getting in over my head trying to do this swap on my own? I have a drive-on car lift that I can use to get under the Yukon safely but I've never pulled an engine or tranny before so I'm kinda questionable about what to do and where to start.

Could I do the swap very easily without having to pull the tranny or would it be easier to have it out?

Oh and BTW its a 4x4

 

[Trippyjoey]

Well if you are dropping in a 6.0 Crate engine then it would be easy to drop in, just connect the sensors, fuel line, and the transmission to it..
If you are planning on modifying the 6.0 later on for more torque you might as well switch the 4L60E for a 4L80E while you are at it since they are much tougher than the original 4L60E.

 

[TWITCH101]

nah I'm just replacing the motor. I don't plan on doing any internal work. At least not for a long time.

 

[bkboatnsleds]

I think this question is hard to answer as we dont know your mechanical ability, but it is all plug n play...

 

[Kman]

On a 2001 is a 6.0 plug and play? Don't you have to get a different cross member?

 

[bkboatnsleds]

Only need the cross member if you plan on changing to the 80 series trans.. Yes, plug n play.

 

[TWITCH101]

well, I know that certain models I have to use the flexplate from my 5.3 if I want to use the 4l60e.

 

[Kman]

Only need the cross member if you plan on changing to the 80 series trans.. Yes, plug n play.

Wow I had no idea. Is there any threads online with in-depth instructions and pictures on how to do the swap?

I know the electronics changed in 2003. If I was to use a 2003-2006 LQ4 or LQ9 would anything have to be changed on the motor for it to accept the 2000-2002 electronics?

 

[TWITCH101]

I read that the electronics were all the same from 01-06....???

 

[TWITCH101]

Since we are on the issue...I heard that the 6.0 and the 5.3 used the exact same intake manifold, throttle bodies, and headers.....can someone verify this? also, what else will work? I'm assuming that a/c compressors, alt, and ps pumps are exactly the same as well.