Junkyard 5.3L to 530HP LS3 Killer! Budget Build with Pro Drift Durability

You asked for it—here’s the full deep-dive into how we turned a $250 junkyard 5.3 LS into a naturally aspirated, 530+ wheel horsepower monster. This isn’t just a refresh—it’s a budget-minded, track-proven build that outguns an LS3 for the same money, with smarter parts choices and pro-level durability. We cover every step of the internal engine build—from crank, rods, pistons, bearings, and oiling mods to valvetrain and cylinder heads. This build is destined for a competition-level drift car, but most of these techniques can help anyone build a strong, affordable LS engine for the street, track, or strip. If you want to know how to make reliable, high power from a cast-iron 5.3 without breaking the bank, this is the video for you. Think of it as your blueprint for turning budget into brutality. 🔧 Engine Specs: $250 LM7 block bored to 3.9" 4” stroke Manley forged crank 6125 rods, 2618 pistons WPC + cryo treatments Comp Cams drift-spec cam + valvetrain Elbrock heads with LS3-style square ports Built for rev limiter abuse, clutch kicks, and hard racing 🎥 Stick around for Part 2 where we’ll go over peripherals and install tips for the S13 chassis. 👉 Support the channel: shop our parts store or become a MotoIQ member! Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 7:56 Bottom End Intro 8:33 Crank 14:21 Rods 20:22 Pistons 25:36 Bearings 27:36 Oil Pump 28:57 Main Caps 30:33 Harmonic Balancer 32:59 Valvetrain Intro 33:18 Camshaft 34:25 Roller Lifters 35:50 Shaft Rockers 38:37 Timing Chain 40:09 Head Gaskets 42:14 Heads 48:40 Block 54:12 Conclusion LINKS: SHOP for parts: https://shopmotoiq.com/ READ MORE on MotoIQ.com: http://www.motoiq.com/ FOLLOW US on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motoiq/ LIKE US on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motoiq