How to Build a 404ci LS Stroker Engine on a Budget

From Car Craft, Oct 27, 2009: >>Read the full article here.<<

LS engines have taken the performance world by storm, but breaking the bank for a crate motor isn't the only way to get in on the action.

The team at Car Craft decided to prove that building a powerful LS engine can be both affordable and enjoyable. Enter Lester Scruggs, their 404 cubic inch stroker project.

The journey began with a well-used iron-block 6.0L LS engine. These iron blocks offer a great starting point for those on a budget, providing a solid foundation for building a stroker motor. To bump up the displacement, they added a Scat 4.00-inch forged-steel stroker crank and a set of Mahle pistons.

We'll dive deep into the machining process, including boring, honing, and decking the block. We'll also discuss the importance of balancing the rotating assembly for optimal performance.

The assembly process will be covered in detail, from installing the crankshaft and bearings to setting up the camshaft and assembling the heads, providing clear instructions and photos to guide you through each step.

Parts Featured:
Genuine GM Parts 9427693 - Oil Gallery Plug
Genuine GM Parts 12570326 - Cylinder Head Dowel
Genuine GM Parts 12561513 - KEY-CR/SHF BAL
Genuine GM Parts 11588949 - PLUG ASM
Genuine GM Parts 12561663 - PLUG-ENG BLK COOL DRN HOLE
SDPC Raceshop X12595365 - LS Lifter Guide
Moroso 20141 - Oil Pan, GM LS, Rear Sump, Swap, 2 -10 AN Remote Filter
Moroso 24050 - Oil Pump Pick-Up, GM LS, Rear Sump
Moroso 22941 - Windage Tray, GM LS
ARP 134-3609 - LS1 Head Bolt Kit 1997-2003
ARP 234-5608 - Chevy Gen III and Gen IV LSx main stud kit
Fel-Pro 1312-3 - Intake Manifold Gasket Set
ARP 430-2001 - Chevy LS1, LS4, LS6, LM7-5.5, LQ4-6.0 & RL4-4.8 hex intk mnfld blt kit
ARP 234-2503 - LS1, LS6 5.7L & 6.0L balancer bolt kit
ARP 134-1003 - LS1 Chevy cam bolt kit
ACDelco D1818A - Engine Oil Pressure Sensor
MSD 5096 - DynaForce Starter, GM LS1-LS7 Engines
SDPC LSx Truck Wire Set With NGK Spark Plugs
Victor Reinz CS5975 - Engine Conversion Gasket Set For 97-04 LS
Victor Reinz JV5022 - Engine Timing Cover Gasket Set
Victor Reinz GS33380 LS 1997-2001 Engine Cylinder Head Bolt Set
Victor Reinz HS54332 - Engine Cylinder Head Gasket Set
Clevite MS-2199H - H-Series Main Bearing Set
Clevite CB-663P - P-Series Rod Bearing Set