LS1 crankshaft runout is checked at the No. 3 center main journal with a dial indicator. Learn how to measure crankshaft straightness, identify excessive runout, and determine whether an LS crank may be bent before assembling the short block.
Coil on plug ignition technology has definitely accelerated the quality of spark in engines since the early 2000's and it's definitely not slowing anytime...
A smoking turbo does not always need rebuilding. Restricted oil drainage, crankcase pressure and installation errors can force oil through a healthy turbo.