Replacing '99 5.3L with '03-'04 5.3L?

1965cat · October 4, 2004

I have a '99 5.3L Silverado with 130K miles and yes it has had the piston slap since 20K... I am noticing it consumes more oil now, has less power, and the noise is worse than any diesel.... I am going to run this 5.3 as long as possible, but am afraid that may not be too much longer...... How can I be assured if I purchase a long block from chevy or a reman dealer that I will not run into the same problem? Can I specify a 04 or 05 5.3L to replace the one I have and if I do can I use the same computer/connections in my 99 with the new motor? Also, what are the options for replacing this motor? (rebuild my own, have a machine shop rebuild mine, purchase a long block...any other options here?)

Also, I have had not trouble from the tranny so far, should I replace that at the same time or not?

any/all suggestions appreciated.

Jeremy WI · October 4, 2004

I'd want a written guarantee from the dealer that the new long block would not have a piston slap/noise problem before I bought one, especially if the vehicle I was driving had only 130k on it and sounded like a diesel- is this all the time or only when cold, my 96 305 has over 170k on it and it knocks a little when cold, but doesn't sound then any where near any diesel does

1965cat · October 15, 2004

I'd want a written guarantee from the dealer that the new long block would not have a piston slap/noise problem before I bought one, especially if the vehicle I was driving had only 130k on it and sounded like a diesel- is this all the time or only when cold, my 96 305 has over 170k on it and it knocks a little when cold, but doesn't sound then any where near any diesel does

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

During the first 50K the noise was only around for a minute or two.. from 50-100K it remained for 3-4 minutes, now at 130K I have a constant tap (loud at first, then a consistant tap no matter how warm the motor is.)...

I called my local GM dealer to check on pricing for a replacement and they will only guarantee the motor for 50K/36 months and will not guarantee it will not have the slap problem. He said "I can't believe people are so uptight about a little engine noise".. I replied "At the price you charge for trucks, I should be able to rely on the drivetrain up to 180-200K miles"..... I NEVER thought I would say this, but that full size Nissan/Toyota keeps looking pretty good when it comes to my wallet!! I honeslty would rather own a GM, but they are making it very difficult!!

lowflyer · October 15, 2004

I would go with a Jasper Remanufactured engine. They use Hypereutectic pistons that eliminate the piston slap issue. They would retail for around $3250.00 plus $643.00 for the install kit (gaskets, water pump, etc)($480.00 core if you buy it outright.) If you get it installed by an authorized dealer for them, you get a 3yr/75K mile nationwide warranty. They are one of the best reman motors that I have used. ....and no, I don't work for them...

As for your tranny, if you've got the cash lying around, why not? Most shops will cut you a break on the Labor, if you do both at the same time.

1965cat · October 20, 2004

Thanks for the advice Lowflyer, I am going to check into it..... another novice question: what is a hypereutectic piston? Is it shaped differently, made out of different material? I am guessing, but I thought the slap problem was due to poor piston design... are the hypereutectic pistons a different design? Also, how much can I expect ot pay a local Jasper dealer to swap the motor for me?

Hecktorx · October 20, 2004

Why settle on a 5.3? If your going to swap out the motor, put in a 6.0. It's a direct bolt in. I've seen the 345 hp version being sold for about $3,400.