Crate Motor Options

jdunn01 · February 17, 2018

Hi all,

My 2008 Silverado 5.3 just dropped another lifter. Cyl 4. for the second time. Replaced the lifters 30 K mile ago on that side along with VLOM and Gaskets, head bolts etc. Engine has 170K on it now so I want to replace the motor with a crate motor instead of pulling the heads again.

Where is the best place to buy a long block crate motor now days?

Checking around i have the following quotes:

From Fraser Engines for their " High Durability" re manufactured for $3,198 plus $310 Core
From JEGS their 59-DCX4 re manufactured by ATK for $3,340.99 plus $610 core
From Summit it looks like their re manufactured is $4,221.99 plus a $2,500 core charge

Anyone have experience with any of these guys that could make a recommendation?

diyer2 · February 17, 2018

Check with your local GM or Chevy dealer would be my preference.

Should have a better warranty and you can talk to them if there is a problem face to face.

540fan · February 28, 2018

I’ll make this my first post....

I’ve recently purchased an 08 Sub with a failing AFM and just ordered a replacement motor. The new Sub is a move up from my 94 K2500 6.5l diesel that I pretty much restored so this site is new to me having been a regular at Dieselplace.com with over 500 posts.

I looked at the GM option which is a LB only. I believe that is what Jeggs is selling as the price is about the same. GM warranty is 3 yrs, 100,000 Miles. GM also wants the $2,500 core deposit. I just ordered the HD 5.3l from Fraser and am awaiting shipping. The main driver was the HD motor is a guaranteed first time rebore on a block and they build the motor themselves with all US parts. Their lower cost motor is one they resell and can have foreign parts (Chicom castings???). They supply additional parts with their kit in order to give you the 5 year unlimited miles warranty. That’s why I bought from them.

We we will do the swap in the next week or two and I with post additional information.

Also since the core charge is only $310, I may keep it, swap out the lifters and keep it as a spare for another company truck I own that may need one. Fraser also includes return shipping so you do a motor swap for less that 4K. BTW GM dealer wanted $2,700 for labor only plus shop supplies and fluids, so you’re $7,500 if you go full Mr. Goodwrench....

sefiroxx · March 17, 2018

I did a 5.3 on my 01 4wd Burb last year. Crate rebuild from Dahmer. Also a 3yr 100k warranty. 500 core with free transportation both ways.

Running great. Took about 24 hours over 3 days to compete. Started up great first try,

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