Questions about the LT5 crankshaft. What makes it so unique?

[5ABI VT]

Curious about the LT5 Crank. Ive contacted a few Crank suppliers and 2 already have told me they can build me what I want. I haven't asked the cost yet ... but I was expecting a straight up 'NO' reply based on what Ive read about LT5 cranks over the years being pricey and limited etc etc.

so what makes the LT5 so special? is there a reluctor wheel or something like that that adds to the cost?

My idea for my build will be as big of a bore as possible and as long of a rod as possible with an extremely lightweight crank, rods and pistons etc. Hollow or ti valves (32 valves is awesome until you have to buy new ones lol). If I do shell out for a build I will look at custom billet manifold options as I want to do something like an individual tb setup eliminating the Injector housings and Plenum entirely for short stacks and a large volume plenum... massive cams, 1500 idle is fine...ideas ideas..

[tpepmeie]

Originally Posted by 5ABI VT

so what makes the LT5 so special? is there a reluctor wheel or something like that that adds to the cost?

The issue is that there are no existing cores or patterns out there. Only Bryant and Moldex have written CNC programs to make the crank from billet. What you'll find is that any of the major crank manufacturers have the capability to reverse-engineer the OEM crankshaft and create the program. But that takes time, and thus the price is really really high.

Yes, there is a reluctor wheel in the center. And the oiling drilling is unique, as is the snout.

From what you've described, I'd recommend a 3.75" offset ground stock crank, and 6.125" rods w/ 1.025" compression height pistons. The stock crank is a high quality piece.

Sounds like you'll want a set of cam cores, too. I can help with that .

[Jagdpanzer]

The LT5 crankshaft design is somewhat unusual compared to most V8 cranks. Main difference is the lubrication of all main and rod bearings is done via interconnecting oil distribution channels drilled the length of the crankshaft. Main thrust bearing location is also different than most as is the ignition timing wheel reluctor slots that you mentioned. Consequently there are quite a few more precision machining steps required to produce a LT5 crank compared to a typical small block Chevy or others like it. To my knowledge there are only two experienced aftermarket suppliers still doing our cranks, Bryant and Moldex.

[Hib Halverson]

Originally Posted by 5ABI VT

Curious about the LT5 Crank. Ive contacted a few Crank suppliers and 2 already have told me they can build me what I want. I haven't asked the cost yet ... but I was expecting a straight up 'NO' reply based on what Ive read about LT5 cranks over the years being pricey and limited etc etc.

so what makes the LT5 so special? is there a reluctor wheel or something like that that adds to the cost?

My idea for my build will be as big of a bore as possible and as long of a rod as possible with an extremely lightweight crank, rods and pistons etc. Hollow or ti valves (32 valves is awesome until you have to buy new ones lol). If I do shell out for a build I will look at custom billet manifold options as I want to do something like an individual tb setup eliminating the Injector housings and Plenum entirely for short stacks and a large volume plenum... massive cams, 1500 idle is fine...ideas ideas..

"Ideas, ideas"?

1. A really big check book
2. A really good engine controls engineer

[XfireZ51]

Todd,

Ever sell your setup?

[5ABI VT]

Originally Posted by Hib Halverson

"Ideas, ideas"?

1. A really big check book
2. A really good engine controls engineer

I keep going back and forth.. I know how motor builds go. Have to draw the line somewhere or else it blows the budget astronomically. That callaway aerobody and rebuilding my wheels is starting to look like a much better plan

[tpepmeie]

Originally Posted by XfireZ51

Todd,

Ever sell your setup?

Which parts? I'm in the process of rebuilding it right now. Tried to sell the entire Build 1 valvetrain, incl. camshafts. I think I will put it together with those again, then upgrade later. The issue is not new cams (I've got billet cores), but all the custom complimentary parts which need to go with it--springs, retainers, seats, buckets, etc. Only going to do that if I can sell the other set.

[Karl]

Or call this guy up.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zx4dnUe8CdU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRWEA9aMOl0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRWEA9aMOl0

I think this is the engine. I doubt the crank is stock

[XfireZ51]

Originally Posted by tpepmeie

Which parts? I'm in the process of rebuilding it right now. Tried to sell the entire Build 1 valvetrain, incl. camshafts. I think I will put it together with those again, then upgrade later. The issue is not new cams (I've got billet cores), but all the custom complimentary parts which need to go with it--springs, retainers, seats, buckets, etc. Only going to do that if I can sell the other set.

Todd,

Yes the first build parts. Would make an interesting presentation for the Gathering next year.

[rkreigh]

Originally Posted by Karl

Or call this guy up.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zx4dnUe8CdU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRWEA9aMOl0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRWEA9aMOl0

I think this is the engine. I doubt the crank is stock

stock crank is forged and all you need.

with the turbos displacement isn't necessary and the short stroke can work out well.

Hg sealing on the open deck block is more of an issue. I think the AES liners and short block may help there.

that is one sexy beast! ya baby ya! (A Powers)