Ok so I purchased a LS bottom bare block for $61. I plan on going for a LS/VTEC setup. Obviously I am going to be building the bottom end up first. This is mainly a project to give me something to do on my days off so I am going to be taking my time.

Right now the block is bored to 82mm. I am considering boring it to 84mm and then resleeving it to give me some more displacement and help improve my torque numbers.

Now... my main concern is the R/S ratio. As many people know the stock LS R/S ratio is very poor and not meant for revving past 7000 rpms. What do you guys recommend as far as pistons, rods, and a crank? I mainly just want to improve the R/S ratio so it will be safer for it to rev higher since this motor will be going in my daily driver.

 

the r/s ratio isnt as big of a deal as everyone makes it out to be. Its not the be all end all when it comes to determining performance and longevity. Piston speed plays just as big a role but gets discussed much less.

With shot peened LS rods and ARP rod bolts, i think 8000rpm is safe for a daily driver. And if it is a daily driver you should get some cams that make nice power in that midrange area. ITR/CTR's are nice, maybe even some TODA A's.

 

Yeah right now I am concentrating on the bottom end. After that then I will be focusing on the head. I was considering some ITR cams for it.

 

If R/S ratio is a big concern for you, get a GSR crank and rods. I say stick with the LS crank and rods with ARP rod bolts.

 

With the LS crank and rods will it be safe to have the redline at 8000 rpm?

 

I took my LS/VTEC to 9,000 fairly regularly for about a year ( with ARP rod bolts). I think 8,000 is quite safe with a properly built motor.

 

I have run Quite a few LS Vtecs and have ran them past 9 Grand with Jun 2 and 3's making the motor last is in the quality of the motor build.

 

You should be fine going to at least 8500 rpm, thats what i take mine to, just get the pisons rods and crank all balanced, and arp rod bots, and you will be fine.