engine build advice!

[99problemhoe]

i have a 99 tahoe with a 5.7 vortec and it popped a HG so its time to rebuild after 222k so................. i plan on mls HG'S all the normal stuff as much machine work as possible(the wallet is only feeling about 600 worth) and bore it over .30 have the heads redone and then put her back together. my questions are:
will i need a tune or is it only necessary to optimize performance?
anything else i can do relativly inexpensive to increase power?
and anything i should watch out for/keep an eye on?
also i have to replace my upper intake manifold (the one that the coolant hose screws into) because the old pewter POS broke off inside of it and then i was ina pinch and had to jb weld the new steel one on there.......so the question here is whats a good intake for a vortec or should i just go back stock also what are so good cams? and prices pr links if yall have them!

thanks in advance

 

[SunlitComet]

gm crate engine perhaps or just fix the gasket issue and save for an ht383.

 

[ezdaar]

replace manifold with edelbrock unit.
Hit Junkyard for a 400 crank and rods..
Have block machined to clear the rod ends.
Any left over money, buy 1.6 full roller rockers..

Put together a 383.

 

[99problemhoe]

tune?

ok i like the idea of doing a 383 but my major issue is will i need a tuned ecu(eprom) or can i use the stock tune? also i already have .30 over pistons for this motor and i can trade them for either .40 over or .60 over. also i have seen alot of 383's that run carbs I DON'T WANT A CARB! haha i kinda feel its going backwards if i down grade from FI.


also in response to the crate motor not that i don't trust the crate people however i would like to know every single flaw with the engine and not be surprised when i have a problem 4-5 years down the road ya know because if you have ever built an engine every one knows there is always that one little problem.

as far as 1.6 roller rockers are ....... i am a import builder this will be my very first v8 and the concept of one huge cam and rockers just seems so primitive to me. so your going to have to explain the pros and cons of them to me if you don't mind.

---------- Post added at 03:17 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:08 PM ----------

also how do the stock vortec rods hold up under over sized pistons and a bit more power if i decide to go that route? and if i will need a tune what would be the most cost effective way to get that done (keep in mind im used to paying 800-1500 for a tune so 300-400 is a reasonable price for me but don't discredit any good tunes that are cheaper the wallet would appreciate!)

 

[purple 'hoe]

Tune wise, Blackbear Performance can tune it for you.

 

[SunlitComet]

1.6 rockers on an entirely stock head is okay as long as you do not change cam. The gm ht383e is supposed to all new material in and out. The spec and build sheet is here. it has better rockers, cam, crank and all. It is a turn key compatible with the exist fuel and induction system of truck for a drop in install. That being said having some one Like Black Bear Performance re-tune your pcm for it can really bring out its potential. Upgrades like MSD ignition, a K&N CAI and good exhaust system front to back will do even more.

 

[99problemhoe]

tune people tune?

im really more concerned whether or not i can use my stock pcm if i bore over .30 and get a mild cam or do i HAVE to get it tuned? and i have heard of black bear but their site is a bit confusing and left me thinking that either they had to be in my area or my truck has to already be drivable to get the right information from sensors and what not, to tune it right? so.............. also does any one happen to have an email for black bear?

---------- Post added at 08:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:47 PM ----------

i plan on a cai and exhaust once engine is complete

---------- Post added at 10:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:48 PM ----------

what do yall think about this cam?
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/NAL-14097395/

its the only one i see that will fit with out machining the heads for more lift or should i bite the bullet and machine the heads and get a lunati cam or something?