If you are going for boost then hands down get a lq4. Alot of people likes the lq4 engines for boost because it has dish pistons and 317 heads. The 317 heads has a thicker deck then any other ls head and flow just as good. Also if you want to upgrade it any then get ls9 gm gaskets for it which are a good help to and get a good cam with support modifications.

Look up a guy on youtube called Sloppy Mechanic. He has achieved 1000hp on a stock lq4 with a cam and injectors upgrade. But if you want a good reliable engine then once you get past 700-800hp then I would upgrade crank, rods and pistons.

You can get them from a 2000- 2006 HD vans and trucks. But if you want a cable throttle body then get one before 03. I paid $350 from a pick a part yard for a complete lq4 engine, wiring harness, and computer. So they are not expensive at all.


Now if you don't want boost then get a lq9 or ls2 engine. The ls2 is a aluminum block but if your not planning on going over 700hp then you are good. The lq9 has flat top piston so it has a higher compression the the lq4. But a little head work and a good cam then you should be right around 500hp or more on the ls2 or lq9.