What is a Gen 1 LS?
The “LS” name originates from the engine RPO code of the first Gen 3 small block, the LS1, introduced in the 1997 Corvette. Most components interchange between these Gen 3 and Gen 4 motors. LS motors share no interchangeable parts except connecting rod bearings with the Gen 1/2 Small Block Chevrolet engines.
What Gen LS do I have?
If it has at least one pickup on the timing cover, it’s a Gen 4 engine. Next, you can look at the intake manifold. If the manifold is low, smooth, and rounded, it is a car engine, so if it’s a Gen 3, it will be an LS1 or LS6 engine.
Is a Chevy 5.3 an LS engine?
The cheapest of the LS engine family is the 5.3L truck engine since it came in most of the trucks and SUVs that Chevrolet has produced.
What kind of engine do I need for a LS swap?
An “LS swap” is an engine switch and installation. The “LS” can mean any engine made by GM from a factory truck 4.8 to GM’s popular LS3 or LS7. The specific LS engine you choose to start with will depend mostly on the budget you have to work with.
How much does it cost to do a LS swap?
LS swaps will save you a lot of money over the long run in fuel mileage. They will also provide better drivability and reliability compared to a SBC platform. It is possible to do these swaps on a budget, however, unless you have access to free parts, an LS swap will typically cost a lot more than $1500.
Which is the most difficult part of a LS swap?
The wiring aspect of any LS swap is undoubtedly the most difficult. Most builders are familiar with fabrication techniques, trouble shooting, and parts swapping to make things work, but electronics rise to a much higher level of complexity.
What kind of engine is in a 1999 LS?
The 1999 and 2000 model year engines had cast iron heads with all other model years sporting the cast aluminum heads. The beefy iron block and the 4.000-inch cylinder bores that can accommodate the GM L92 heads make for some serious horsepower at budget prices. For junkyard engine builds, this is a very desirable engine.