If you’ve followed the site for long, you know I don’t post much from the personal side of life. Since this is something that stands to affect how active I am this storm season, I’m hoping you’ll forgive me the indulgence…
The StormBurban has seen a lot of storms, and a lot of miles. In three and a half years over 100,000 miles have rolled under her tires. At 263,000 or so miles, the engine is about to give up the ghost. A lifter has been ticking for about a year and a half — we’ve gotten many more miles out of it by frequent oil changes and using Lucas additive in the warm months. In the last few weeks it is exhibiting signs of valve sticking — knock sensor, rough running, etc. For a number of reasons, replacing the ride is out of the question right now, as is a rebuilt engine. That leaves a used engine as the other option.
Here’s the deal: I’ve found one on eBay, but I’d rather do business with someone in Kansas. That’s where you come in. If you know a salvage yard operator, could you call them Monday (3/11/18) and see if they have an engine that matches the following? (I’d also consider buying a wrecked Silverado, Yukon or Suburban with a matching engine, if anyone is looking to sell one.)
- For a 2005 Suburban LS 2-wheel drive (Flex Fuel)
- VIN Code is X
- 5.3 liter
- L59 is another code associated with this engine
- I believe any 2003-2005 (X VIN code) engine code will match — maybe even 1999-2007, I’m not sure.
I’d prefer to go with the flex-fuel engine, but if the only thing I can find is the non-flex (LS9), I may have to go that way.
I’m willing to come get it, but I’m not sure I can get help to pull it from the donor vehicle. I’m not asking for breaks on price, just help finding a decent engine or drivetrain at a decent price.
If you know of one, please call me at (316) 226-9050 or email [email protected]
And thank you in advance!
I know it’s a ways but Kenny’s Auto Body in Salina is sure to have one
James M Crisp use some of your connections
There is quite a few salvage yards in the haysville area, have you tried giving them a call?
I’ve searched inventory online for those who have that ability. I’ll make some calls Monday, too.
Call mike at A1 524 3273. If he don’t have one he can locate one
Clarence Griffin planning to go over there tomorrow morning.
Scott, I am really worried about this. I have no auto knowledge, but will try and make some calls on Monday for you. We have to get you into a vehicle. By the way…I am getting 2 notifications on every email. Just wanted you to know.
Might check with Lumbert Auto Salvage in Winfield as well
What motor you looking for?
05 Suburban, 5.3 Flex fuel 2WD. VIN code Z, also known as the L59 engine.
Storm Chaser Scott Roberts Might check with Lumbert Auto Salvage in Winfield as well
Check out Don Schmid Auto Salvage at Seneca and 31st. Give them a call and see if they have what you need. Another option is G & R Motors Salvage Yard at Broadway and MacArthur, but they can be more expensive in my experiences with them.
Sandlian iron and metal auto salvage 316 942 8366
Ask for J.R.
What make, model and engine?
05 Suburban Flex fuel 2WD. 5.3 liter, VIN code Z, aka L59 engine.
Wow the flex fule designation will make it harder
The long block may be the same. Ill do some checking.
Do you have a good mechanic? Mine says that swap would run $500
Some, but that 5.3 is a very common engine. I’ve found several online but would prefer doing business in Kansas. The only difference from the T to the Z engine is the injectors, and the injector wire plugs are more square.
I have done one before and have help setup from a couple guys. I’m figuring 2 days, so that sounds about right on labor.
I just had 2 5.7s done. Lost oil pressure. Bearings were worn but rings and cylinders were like new at 300k. Is your oil pressure low?
Unknown. Gauge broke 2 years ago. Have a lifter ticking for about 18 months…have been able to keep it going with frequent oil changes and Lucas in the warm months. But now I’m into what I think is stuck valve…rough run after coming down from highway speed, along with ping sensor going off. It’s been idling a couple hundred RPM slow most of the winter.
I can avoid most of the problem by limiting speed to 65ish…RPM just shy of 2000. Running 75, I’m up about 2300 and can about guarantee the rough run coming off the turnpike.
I understand now! You need a complete assembly!!! I have Dodge city salvage looking. I would also try to find a complete vehicle donor from a individual. Might be cheaper
Yes. Ideally, if there’s a engine/tranny still paired up, I’ll do the whole drive line at once. Tranny has gotten a bit rough shifting in low, but I’ve been waiting to see if that’s a result of the engine issues. My mechanic agrees with that thinking.
I’ll be offline till after I get to work, so around 7pm.