[jganderson]

I got rained out yesterday, hopefully I can finish today. What is the best way to break the manifold loose? I think the only thing I have left to remove is the rotor. Any advice/cautions on this part? Also, what is the best way to clean the manifold and valve covers? Why is the EGR necessary, can I get rid of it?

[jganderson]

Just wondering what kind of power I can expect if I do a 383 build. So far I've found that I need a 3.75 crank, 5.7 rods, and the appropriate cam. Can I use the stock pistons if the cylinders are in good shape or do I need to replace them as well? Is there anything else I NEED to do, or is the rest just gravy?

[Adam65]

You already have 5.7 rods. Need pistons because the wristpin is moved up to account for the longer stroke.
I thought 2000 would have been an LS motor...vortec sbc's carried over for awhile like they did in the vans?

[jganderson]

Gotcha thanks.
They didn't move to the Gen 3 motors in the Escalade until '01.
(I think)

[jganderson]

I replaced the intake manifold gaskets and put everything back together.
I made a trip from Jacksonville to Atlanta and back, approximately 800 miles total, with no apparent oil loss. Before, this would have put me about 3 pints low. I'm still getting oil pressure fluctuation, 20-50 PSI, in correlation to the engine RPMs. I was thinking it may be the oil pump pressure relief valve. Any thoughts?