LS3 430 or LS3 480?

[The Lost Texan]

Currently: 1985 SWB 2WD with a quick performance 9"posi rear-end (3.89) and a 4L70 tranny. The front end has a QA1 cross member with drop spindles and rack and pinion steering.

I will cruising this truck locally, as well as, vacation, interstate, etc. NO trailer, NO drag racing, NO autocross. I have access to both engines. Just looking for thoughts and opinions. Does the 480 have the same drivability as the 430, for my particular application? I can acquire the 480 for less money, than the 430, but if the "hot cam" is more for "hotrodding", then I will stay with the stock 430. Just looking for drivability, reliability and connectivity.

New to LS engines so any and all input is appreciated. Thx!

 

[TotalyHucked]

Any idea what the cam specs are? Or a PN# for the engines (assuming these are crates we can look at online)?

 

[The Lost Texan]

Part#19434638. 495 HP and 473 Torque.

 

[The Lost Texan]

• LS Hot Cam
• Duration @ .050" Lift( Deg): Intake: 219 / Exhaust: 228
• Maximum Lift (in) W/ 1.7 Rocker: Intake: .525 / Exhaust: .525
• Lobe Centerline ( deg): 112

 

[Ricko1966]

• LS Hot Cam
• Duration @ .050" Lift( Deg): Intake: 219 / Exhaust: 228
• Maximum Lift (in) W/ 1.7 Rocker: Intake: .525 / Exhaust: .525
• Lobe Centerline ( deg): 112

You need to list the cam profile for both of the engines in question. And helpful if you distinguish which cam in which engine.

 

[CalSgt]

The GM connect and cruise package (LS376/480 with 4L70) comes with a 3k-4k stall converter... While a little higher than a stock torque converter shouldn't be too ill mannered for street use although, I'd bet the engine with the milder cam would be more suited to a DD truck with an automatic transmission.

The cam specs should produce enough vacuum for power assisted brakes at idle which would be my biggest concern. Worst case scenario you could convert to hydro assist.