With 173k and a blown headgasket, Im thinking its time for a new or reman engine. Anyone know a good place to shop and estimated labor money for a swap?

 

If you have the means and know how, Id always opt to DIY. Re-bearing and re-ring would be less than $1K if you did it all yourself.
If you add in performance parts, obviously the price goes up. If you are staying LQ4 there are a few upgrades Id suggest. Not really performance parts, but just bigger, better, faster factory parts. Look at the LS2/LS9 line of engines.
Of course if you really want to get crazy, I could suggest some parts also. ;-)
Also, there is a thread over on PT.net about the ATK 460HPLQ4. That would be more of a drop in engine. Then youd just have to hook it up. But at a minimum, if you did the ATK motor, Id do LT headers, tune, and a 07+ intake. (you didnt say what year your truck was)
To make a fair suggestion, a budget and goal would be very helpful.

 

I would not hesitate to try and find a low mileage used motor. I think a used motor is sometimes better than a questionable reman motor. If you go reman Jasper does well as does the previously mentioned ATK. I bet $1000 labor would cover the swap.

 

Thanks for your advice. ATK engines are sold through NAPA so with my discount and the rebate this month, a reman engine with tin is only 2,000. Now its time to pick out other extras!!!!

 

Cruise performancetrucks.net and LS1tech's classified sections for extras.
(If you already dont) ;-)

Lots of good deals out there.

 

finally getting this project started

 

I just got mines rebuild

 

I forget the necessary replacement items lol. injectors, and numerous worn extras, good thing the bonus was big this year. lol

 

our bonus was 50$ guess I could buy some wax and a rag or 2 for mine