Simple question about 5.3 vs 5.7

[Dr1ft1ng0wns]

I think it really depends on what part of the nation you are in too. Me an Matt share similar opinions, and we're both up here in the PNW. I think parts are way more common and cheaper if you're closer to the east side of the country. I live in central oregon for example, and seeing any 3rd gen chevy stuff pop up on cl is a rarity if not an impossibility. I'm usually on there at least once a day and I've seen maybe 1 or 2 ls series motors on there in the last two years.

[RAPID]

I would get a LQ4 6.0 before I would consider a 5.3

[65imp]

At the end of the day you have to consider your time.  If the hours you invest in the 5.3 are justified, then have at it. 
A better deal is buying a salvaged car and parting it out, get the engine for free!
Better yet, build a company selling car parts, and never have the time to finish your car........
Wait
No
That's the gin talking.

I think Matt's point is the oft quoted price of truck motor pullouts neglects to mention some of the necessary incidentals.

[quinns]

Better yet, build a company selling car parts, and never have the time to finish your car........

I lawled. Its appreciated though 

[Exidous]

I'm going boost so my requirements are a little different but I'll be going with a LH6 or LC9 gen IV motor if my LS1 dies. It's a little smaller than the 5.7 but the gen IV rods and pistons are holding a TON of power on a stock motor. Much more than I want so a stock short block for <$1k is a steal when I don't have to forge it. The power they are holder aren't the freak outliers either. There are a ton of folks with a lot of miles running good power that would make a stock LS1 short block cry. Everywhere I have read the gen IV rods are worth at LEAST 200hp more than the gen III ones.

Just get rid of the VVT and AFM which isn't an issue for me since I have all the parts (mostly) already.

If you are staying N/A and are sure you will stay that was go for the LS1 on the cheap. You'll wish you had the bigger motor. Between accessories, pan and intake the cost benefit to the 5.3L's is almost a wash.