The LS engine incorporates power and versatility with value and reliability. This Chevy engine has provided individuals with an affordable, reliable power plant packing tons of potential. Thanks to its compact OHV design, easily sourced parts and the abundance of complete kits, it is a go-to choice for substantial and dependable performance. Even if the car isn’t a typical candidate, there’s usually a way to implement it successfully.
High performance, versatile design, aftermarket parts, and affordability are just some of the factors that fortify the long-lasting popularity of the engine. Due to widespread LS enthusiasm, Holley sponsors an LS fest where hundreds of LS-swapped vehicles are shown off by their owners. The popularity and affordability of LS swaps has only increased over time.
Let’s discover more about the LS swap trend and why it is an ideal choice for adding performance to any build.
Tradition Of The LS Swap
Over its 25-year evolution, Chevy’s LS engine has undergone many changes and iterations, each with their own special performance features. Some of the hallmarks of an LS include a compact OHV pushrod design, coil-near-plug ignition and 4.40” bore centers. Praises of these small-block V8s have long been sung, their prowess making its way onto most lists crowning the greatest engines of all time.
Aftermarket parts abound for all LS engines, facilitating the accessibility of the job. There are tons of guides and entire books written on differentiating and fitting LS engines to a variety of makes. The ability for even novice mechanics to perform most LS swaps is a factor that has increased the engines’ popularity.
A Holistic Performance Package
Over time, GM has consistently offered high value with the LS engines. They are purpose-built for performance, showcased in their widespread use in motorsports. Engines in the LS family are uniquely affordable for the amount of power and time-tested reliability they offer.
Even with the least powerful of the LS engines, some simple mods can produce a substantial gain of horsepower. Adding a high-performance camshaft can provide a boost of over 100hp. Plus, LS engines are quite easy to find at most any junkyard across the country.
Even with the advent of the new LT engine, the original LS will still be more popular. “It’s my personal feeling that the LT won’t ever surpass the popularity of the LS engine. Mainly because the LS engine is still a little bit closer to home for people”, said Luke Siebert of Siebert Performance.
The newer LT engine will see its fair share of swaps as well, but it may not come close to the popularity of the LS engine for quite some time. In addition to being a bit more complicated to install, the LT aftermarket has not grown substantially as of yet and the LS still retains a loyal fan base.
LS Swap Everything
People will LS swap almost anything, as evident from the sheer quantity and diversity of swaps. Headlines such as “LS swapped!” attract widespread attention and enthusiasm. There’s also a special allure for budget LS swaps and the ability to cobble together parts from the junkyard to create more horsepower.
At the Holley LS Swap fest, you can spot rides such as a LS-powered Nissan 350Z, Porsche Carrera and Dodge Ram. These are typical, however, compared to wild LS swaps like the tire shredding USPS delivery truck. The creativity that the LS engine inspires will surely continue through the decades.