Ls Engine For Sale Craigslist (2024)

FAQs

What is the best LS engine to swap? ›

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.

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.

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.

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.

The LS engine is not without its issues though. For an engine that is touted as such a performance oriented engine the LS has some shortcomings. Some LS variants have been plagued with bad piston ring seals. This issue can cause oil consumption issues.

The LS9 (6.2 liter, 376ci) was the first LS variant to get a supercharger, making it the most powerful LS from GM at 638 hp.

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.

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.

The advantages of the LS engine really boil down to the cylinder head design. Some of them make good torque in stock form, but the engine really comes alive with higher-rpm horsepower. The most popular salvage yard swap candidates are the 5.3L truck engines, also called a Vortec engine.

Let's start by taking a look at “LS”. LS stands for “luxury sport” and is what is featured in the names of most of the base models in the Chevy lineup. You'll find the LS label in certain trims of the following Chevy models: Chevy Trailblazer.

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.

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.

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.

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.