FAQs
The Chevrolet LS V-8 is the first choice for high-performance engine swaps. The legendary engine's compact size and light weight make it the most popular option for enthusiasts seeking more power.
Which LS engine is most reliable? ›
The LS2 is also one of the most reliable LS engines, further adding to its appeal. The reason why it is rated so highly on this list is the price. The LS2 isn't as advanced or as powerful as its younger brother, the LS3, but it also costs less. As such, it is a solid option for tinkerers on a budget.
What is the most common LS engine in junkyard? ›
The most abundant and lowest-priced LS engines are the 4.8-liter and 5.3-liter version found in Chevy / GMC trucks and SUVs from 1999 to 2013. If you're looking for a cheap LS build, these engines are the best candidate.
What does LS engine cost? ›
The LS3 L99 6.2-liter powerplants were available in the 2010-2015 Camaro SS. These engines use an aluminum block, Gen IV internals, and were rated at 400 horsepower 410 lb-feet of torque. According to Auto Guild, these engines can be purchased from $4,200 to $6,200 for a used unit.
What is the best LS engine for a daily driver? ›
The LS3, for instance, is considered to be one of the best daily LS engines. While we are aware of how crazy daily driving a 400 plus HP engine sounds, there's a large community that does just this. Here's everything you need to know about the LS3 engine.
What LS makes the most HP? ›
The LS9 had the most HP of any engine made by General Motors. Before we dive into the technicalities and share details on the LS9 engine, you must get an idea of just how capable it is. The supercharged LS9 engine was solely reserved for use in one vehicle, the 2009–2013 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.
What are the weaknesses of LS engines? ›
Some LS variants have been plagued with bad piston ring seals. This issue can cause oil consumption issues. As this issue gets worse it can also create an increasing amount of blow by in the engine.
How many miles do LS engines last? ›
As long as you give it some TLC you should get 400k or so. Just don't beat it too much and change all the fluids on a regular basis. When properly maintained, our engines will run for a good long time. Lots of guys on here have well over 100,000 mile and are still flogging them at the track on a regular basis.
What is better LS2 or LS3? ›
While forced induction will help the LS2 engine outperform the LS3, doing the same upgrades to the LS3 will always yield more impressive results thanks to the additional refinement. Therefore, if significant power is your goal, then the LS3 will undoubtedly be the better choice.
What year 5.3 to stay away from? ›
The bad years: 2007-2014
There are eight different variations of the Vortec 5.3-liter V8 in the fourth-generation small-block V8 family. All suffer from the same issues, which can be summed up in two three-letter acronyms: AFM and PCV.
The most common one you'll hear is that the LS stands for Luxury Sport. This comes from the use of LS and LT in the context of car trim levels ('LT' meaning Luxury Touring).
What is the best 5.3 LS engine? ›
The Chevrolet Performance 5.3 Vortec crate engine is a solid choice for those seeking reliable power, while the ATK High-Performance 5.3 LS crate engine offers greater performance potential for those looking for a more spirited driving experience.
Is a 5.3 a LS1 or LS2? ›
The 4.8L and the 5.3L are smaller truck versions of the LS1 and were designed to replace the 305 and the 350 in trucks. The 4.8L and 5.3L engines share the same Gen III LS-series engine block and heads (upper end) and therefore, most parts interchange freely between these engines and other variants in the LS family.
How much horsepower does a 5.3 LS have? ›
To summarize, a stock 5.3 will make about 320 HP. It's possible to push 1000 HP from a 5.3 LS, but a great budget build will easily get you 400-500 HP.
Can you buy an engine from a junkyard? ›
Buying a used engine can help get you back on the road without spending as much in car repairs. But, if you buy a used engine from a shoddy salvage yard, or purchase a random one from Craigslist, you may end up in a worse situation than before.
Which 6.0 LS is the best? ›
One of the most sought after Gen IV LS 6.0 engines is the LS2. An LS2 build is quite popular due to the availability of these 6.0 LS engines. It's aluminum block is strong, yet lighter than cast iron Gen III and IV offerings.
Which is better LS2 or LS3? ›
While forced induction will help the LS2 engine outperform the LS3, doing the same upgrades to the LS3 will always yield more impressive results thanks to the additional refinement. Therefore, if significant power is your goal, then the LS3 will undoubtedly be the better choice.
What LS engine is best for boost? ›
Which is the Best LS to Turbocharge? No matter the size, all LS-based engines respond favorably to boost. In fact, even a turbo 4.8 or turbo 5.3 Vortec engine can reach power levels like those of a turbo 6.0 LS. Sure, they might need a bit more boost, but don't count them out if they're what you've got on hand.
