What is the theory behind going to LS engines?

[dean88]

I'm not looking for a big bickering fest or someone to just say go read the 100+ page LS engine thread. My question is simple what is the main idea behind going to the LS, is it because they are a dime a dozen in the junkyard, because stock they are pretty peppy engines, because they are pretty easy/cheap to build for power, or is there another reason I'm overlooking?

[noser23x]

Basically yes, cheap horse power.

Ive worked on alot, sbc, sbm, bbm, LS have been very easy to work on for me so I prefer them. They arent for everyone though.

I got into them doing muscle car stuff, translated over. They are cheap, make great power, and if they blow up already have parts slap them on another block and keep moving. Issues arise without water and a good fan on a stock one, but, most other motors don't do great there either.

Best motor you can get is one you are most comfortable working on.

[Demo502]

Wheelman402

[taterjuice]

Same reason for the sbc popularity, cheap plentiful and good.

[n8]

Cheap, plentiful, good power.

[dean88]

So are most LS motors built or run stock, aside from the intake and ignition?

[noser23x]

Mar 27, 2017 17:58:31 GMT -5 dean88 said:

So are most LS motors built or run stock, aside from the intake and ignition?

Most I know are, yes. Also know of some with as simple as just valve train, and some others that have went over the deep end with them.

Small list of things really to get them ready, I can convert one in a night.

[mgrot]

Yeah cheap and pretty damn reliable power. Go spend $700 on a junkyard 6.0 ls, spend $1000-$1300 on a carb conversion kit and a cam and you have a 400+ hp engine that's got torque for days and is hard as hell to blow up. Then let's say after a couple years you hatch it, go buy another $700 6.0 and throw your shit on and hit it again.

[mgrot]

And yeah I'll also suggest reading the 100 page ls section if you decide to go that route, I learned a hell of a lot from it.

[dean88]

I appreciate the answers. I'm not planning on switching to the LS for a while.

When I see a a group competitors do something I try to figure out their reasons for doing it. I've noticed they were all strong motors, but the drivers always shut them off the second they get hot.

[Deleted]

The LS have some advantages due to crank placement in the block. Also, even high mileage LS engines usually are in decent condition inside which I believe is due in part to advancement in fuel injection, modern oils, etc. A 200k mile LS looks a whole bunch better inside than an average 70s engine with same mileage.

[lincoln]

The cylinder walls are harder than hell on em is why.

I personally don't understand it.

Reverse engineering IMO. Take something awesome in injected form, go backwards with a carb and intake and expensive MSD crap all to have a motor that can't run hot.

[Wheelman402]

Full roller with low tension rings that don't wear on the cylinder wall, #8 bearing will spin eventually and snap the rod... and no the lifters don't tick..

[smashincwa]

I think the reason for the LS switch is because Scott Gropp has encouraged everyone to do their own research. Looks like lots of people are researching.

[crusher71]

LOL......$1300 FOR CONVERSION KIT FOR IGNITION AND CARB SET UP, $700 FOR USED ENGINE, $150 FOR STEEL OIL PAN, AND ITS STILL AN ENGINE THAT IS USED WITH OILING ISSUES AND WONT RUN WORTH A CRAP WITHOUT WATER.. SURE, SIGN ME UP...LOL.. NOT BICKERING AT ALL. JUST SAYING THAT THERE IS NO "SWITCH TO LS POWER" GOING ON IN THE MAINSTREAM DERBY WORLD. NOT WHEN YOU CAN STILL BUY 4 CHEVY 350 ENGINES FOR THAT SAME MONEY AND TORTURE THEM WITH A CARE IN THE WORLD..... BIG SWITCH TO LS ENGINES?? SAYS WHO??