LS engines are used in everything from factory vehicles to high-performance custom builds. This guide provides a detailed LS engine identification chart, key tips, and frequently asked questions to help you identify your engine correctly.
LS Engine Identification Chart
| LS Engine | Displacement | Production Years | Block Type | Intake Type | Horsepower | Notable Casting Numbers | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LS1 | 5.7L (346 cu in) | 1997–2004 | Aluminum | TBI / Sequential Fuel Injection | 305–350 hp | 12561100, 12561104 | First Gen LS engine, Corvette/Camaro/Firebird |
| LS6 | 5.7L (346 cu in) | 2001–2005 | Aluminum | Sequential Fuel Injection | 385–405 hp | 12561103, 12561126 | High-performance LS1 variant, Corvette Z06 |
| LS2 | 6.0L (364 cu in) | 2005–2009 | Aluminum | Sequential Fuel Injection | 390–400 hp | 12585516, 12585511 | Corvette, Trailblazer SS, Camaro |
| LS3 | 6.2L (376 cu in) | 2008–2017 | Aluminum | Rectangular Port | 430–436 hp | 12629906, 12629904 | Corvette, Camaro SS, popular swap engine |
| LS4 | 5.3L (327 cu in) | 2005–2009 | Iron | Transverse, VVT | 303 hp | 12584691, 12584692 | FWD applications: Impala, Monte Carlo |
| LS5 | 5.3L (325 cu in) | 2002–2006 | Iron | Vortec | 285–295 hp | 12561107, 12561110 | Truck/SUV, durable iron block |
| LS7 | 7.0L (427 cu in) | 2006–2015 | Aluminum | Rectangular Port | 505–700 hp | 12590413, 12590414 | Corvette Z06, high-revving, dry-sump |
| LS9 | 6.2L supercharged | 2009–2013 | Aluminum | Supercharged | 638 hp | 12615633 | Corvette ZR1, forged internals |
| LSA | 6.2L supercharged | 2009–2015 | Aluminum | Supercharged | 556–580 hp | 12623935, 12623936 | Camaro ZL1, Cadillac CTS-V |
| LQ4 | 6.0L (364 cu in) | 1999–2007 | Iron | Vortec | 300–345 hp | 19258631, 19258633 | Trucks/SUVs, popular swap engine |
| LQ9 | 6.0L (364 cu in) | 2000–2007 | Iron | Vortec High Output | 345 hp | 19258634 | High-output LQ4 variant, durable |
| LM7 | 5.3L (325 cu in) | 1999–2007 | Iron | Vortec | 270–290 hp | 12561147, 12561151 | Truck/SUV engine, reliable and common |
| LY6 | 6.0L (364 cu in) | 2007–2014 | Iron | Vortec | 367 hp | 12615319 | Truck/SUV engine, improved LQ4 variant |
| LY5 | 5.3L (325 cu in) | 2007–2014 | Iron | Vortec | 320 hp | 12615324 | Truck/SUV engine, aluminum head option |
| L33 | 5.3L (325 cu in) | 2010–2015 | Aluminum | VVT, Vortec | 326 hp | 12629906 | Active Fuel Management, truck/SUV |
| LC9 | 5.3L (325 cu in) | 2007–2015 | Aluminum | VVT, Vortec | 320 hp | 12629904 | Active Fuel Management, aluminum block |
| LSX 376-B15 | 6.2L (376 cu in) | Aftermarket | Iron/Aluminum | Rectangular Port | 556 hp | N/A | Crate performance engine, reinforced components |
| LSX 427 | 7.0L | Aftermarket | Aluminum | Rectangular Port | 700+ hp | N/A | Race-ready high-performance engine |
| LSX 454 | 7.4L | Aftermarket | Iron | Rectangular Port | 770+ hp | N/A | Extreme performance, drag racing focus |
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What is an LS Engine?
The LS engine family is a series of small-block V8 engines produced by General Motors. Introduced in 1997, LS engines replaced the traditional small-block engines and quickly gained a reputation for high performance and durability.
LS engines are lightweight, have strong aftermarket support, and can be easily swapped into various vehicles, making them popular among car builders and racers.
LS engines are used in a wide range of GM vehicles, including the Chevrolet Corvette, Camaro, Silverado, and Tahoe. Over the years, GM has produced several variations of LS engines, such as LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LS7, LS9, and LSA. Each engine has unique characteristics, including displacement, block type, cylinder heads, and fuel injection systems.
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Why You Need an LS Engine Identification Chart
Identifying the exact LS engine in your vehicle is crucial for several reasons:
- Performance upgrades: Knowing your engine type ensures you select compatible parts, such as intake manifolds, camshafts, and headers.
- Maintenance and repairs: Different LS engines have different components, so correct identification avoids mistakes during repairs.
- Vehicle resale value: Buyers often pay more for vehicles with high-performance LS engines, especially if they can be properly verified.
An LS engine identification chart simplifies this process by providing key identifiers such as casting numbers, VIN codes, and physical features.
Related 5.3 LS Engine Torque Specs(For All Components)
How to Identify an LS Engine
1. Casting Numbers: Each LS engine has a unique casting number on the engine block or cylinder heads. These numbers can tell you the model, year of manufacture, and sometimes the application of the engine.
2. VIN Codes: On many GM vehicles, the engine’s VIN code is stamped on the engine block. The 8th digit of the vehicle’s VIN can often identify the engine type.
3. Physical Features: Certain LS engines have unique physical traits, such as intake manifold design, spark plug locations, oil pan shape, and valve covers.
4. Fuel Injection System: LS engines transitioned from throttle-body injection (LS1) to coil-on-plug systems (LS2 and later). This is another way to narrow down the model.
5. Displacement: LS engines come in various sizes ranging from 4.8L to 7.0L. Measuring bore and stroke or checking casting numbers can reveal the engine’s displacement.
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Tips for LS Engine Identification
- Look for Date Codes: Casting numbers usually include a date code that indicates the month and year of manufacture.
- Check the Intake Manifold: LS1 and LS6 have distinct plastic intake manifolds, while LS2 and LS3 typically have aluminum manifolds.
- Inspect the Valve Covers: Valve cover designs can indicate the specific LS engine series. Rectangular valve covers are common in LS3 engines.
- Listen to the Engine: Certain LS engines have signature sounds due to camshaft design, firing order, or exhaust configuration.
- Use Online Resources: GM forums, engine databases, and aftermarket guides often have detailed charts and casting number references.
Common Applications of LS Engines
- Chevrolet Corvette: LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LS7, LS9
- Chevrolet Camaro: LS1, LS2, LS3, LS7, LSA
- Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra: LS1, LS2, LS3, LS4, LS5
- Pontiac GTO / Holden Vehicles: LS1, LS2, LS3
Related Chevy Engine Swap Compatibility Chart(For All Engine Types)
FAQs
How do I determine what LS engine I have?
To determine your LS engine, start by checking the casting numbers on the engine block and cylinder heads. Compare them with a reliable LS engine chart. You can also check the VIN code on factory-installed engines—the 8th digit often identifies the engine type. Additionally, physical features like intake manifold material, valve cover design, and spark plug locations can help narrow it down.
How to tell if LS1 or LS2?
LS1 and LS2 can be distinguished by intake manifold and block type. LS1 (1997–2004) has a plastic intake manifold and a smaller bore (346 cu in, 5.7L), while LS2 (2005–2009) has an aluminum intake manifold, larger bore (364 cu in, 6.0L), and coil-on-plug ignition. LS2 also produces slightly more torque and horsepower than LS1.
How do I tell if my 5.3 LS is a Gen 3 or Gen 4?
Gen 3 5.3L engines (LM7, L59, etc.) usually have iron blocks and no VVT (Variable Valve Timing). Gen 4 5.3L engines (LC9, L33, LY5) feature aluminum blocks in most cases, Active Fuel Management (AFM), and VVT. Check the casting numbers and valve covers for confirmation.
How many different LS engines are there?
GM has produced over 20 LS engine variants, including Gen 3 (LS1, LS6, LM7, LQ4, LQ9) and Gen 4 (LS2, LS3, LS7, LS9, LSA, LS4, LC9, L33, LY5, LY6). Aftermarket LSX engines also exist in multiple displacements like LSX 376, LSX 427, and LSX 454.
Is a 6.0 a LS1 or LS2?
A 6.0L engine is never an LS1. The 6.0L displacement is found in LS2 (aluminum block, Gen 4) and truck variants like LQ4/LQ9 (iron block, Gen 3). You can identify the specific type by checking casting numbers and intake/ignition style.
How to identify LQ4 or LQ9?
LQ4 and LQ9 are 6.0L truck/SUV engines. LQ4 is the standard version, producing around 300–325 hp, while LQ9 is the high-output version with around 345 hp. Both have iron blocks, but LQ9 often has slightly different casting numbers and heads. Checking the block casting numbers (LQ4: 19258631/19258633, LQ9: 19258634) is the most reliable method.
