The LS3 crate motor represents the pinnacle of high-performance engineering from Chevrolet's LS-Series Gen-IV small-block V8 program. Known for its versatility and power, this Gen-IV small-block V8 engine delivers exceptional performance for a variety of automotive applications. Whether you're upgrading a classic muscle car, restoring a vintage vehicle, building a restomod, doing an LS swap into a project chassis, or boosting the power of your truck, the LS3 crate motor is engineered to meet your needs with precision and power.
The LS3 became the most popular LS swap engine of all time for several reasons:
The LS3 crate motor excels with a maximum horsepower of 426 to 436 hp and peak torque of 420 to 428 ft/lbs. Its high-revving capabilities and advanced engineered components, including an aggressive factory camshaft and efficient valve train, ensure superior performance at high RPMs. The LS3 crate motor's robust design and powerful output make it an excellent choice for both racing and everyday driving.
This LS3 crate motor is perfect for a range of vehicles, particularly muscle cars and trucks. It is the standard engine for the fifth-generation Camaro SS (2010 to 2015) and the C6 Corvette (2008 to 2013). Its versatility and ease of integration make the LS3 crate motor a favored choice for automotive enthusiasts and the most popular LS swap engine of all time.
The LS3 crate motor package comes complete and ready for installation, including:
Installing the LS3 crate motor is straightforward with the provided comprehensive instructions. To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your LS3 crate motor, follow the recommended maintenance schedule which includes regular oil changes (5,000 miles maximum, premium 5W-30 synthetic), coolant checks, and periodic inspection of components. In case of any installation issues, the detailed troubleshooting guide will be highly beneficial.
Maintenance schedule essentials:
Boost the capabilities of your LS3 crate motor with potential upgrades like aggressive camshafts (LS7 cam, custom cams), upgraded valve springs, ported heads, custom tuning, headers, and forced induction (turbo or supercharger). The LS3 platform supports a wide range of performance modifications:
These modifications can enhance performance further while maintaining the reliability that GM LS engines are famous for. Note that modifications might affect warranty terms.
When comparing the LS3 crate motor to other crate engines like the LS376/525 (essentially an LS3 with hot cam and uprated heads producing 525 hp), it's evident that the LS3 balances cost and performance effectively. While the LS376/525 offers more horsepower out of the box, the LS3 retains a competitive edge with its robustness, drivability, and cost efficiency, especially for owners planning to add cam, headers, or forced induction in stages.
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| LS3 (this engine) | 6.2L, 426-436 hp, rectangular port heads, factory 5th-gen Camaro SS / C6 Corvette engine. The most popular LS swap engine. |
| LS1 | 5.7L, 305-345 hp, cathedral port heads, original Gen-III LS (Corvette C5, Camaro / Firebird F-body) |
| LS2 | 6.0L, 400 hp, cathedral port heads, GTO / SSR / C6 Corvette base engine |
| LS6 | 5.7L, 385-405 hp, cathedral port heads (improved over LS1), Z06 C5 Corvette engine |
| LS7 | 7.0L, 505 hp, large port aluminum heads, Z06 C6 Corvette engine, dry sump |
| LSX376 | 6.2L iron block variant, race-prepared base for high-power builds |
For more information on the LS3 crate motor, download official documentation and manuals from Chevrolet's website or join forums and communities dedicated to LS-series enthusiasts. Learn from detailed articles and blog posts about performance tuning and maintenance tips.
A crate LS3 is the right choice for buyers who:
A used LS3 pull from a Camaro SS or C6 Corvette donor is the right choice for buyers who:
The LS3 was used in or fits the following:
| Vehicle | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Chevrolet Camaro SS (5th gen) | 2010 to 2015, factory engine |
| Chevrolet Corvette C6 | 2008 to 2013, factory base engine |
| Pontiac G8 GXP | 2009 (limited production) |
| Australian Holden HSV | Various 2008+ models with LS3 |
| GMPP / GM Crate Engine Programs | LS3 376/430, LS376/525 (modified LS3), LS376/480 |
| LS Swap Applications | Virtually unlimited, including classic Camaro, Chevelle, Nova, C/K trucks, Mustang, Cuda, hot rod, kit car, etc. |
This LS3 crate motor is inspected before shipping:
This package is positioned as a turn-key swap solution with the included accessory components, providing a more complete solution than a bare long block.
| Engine Family | LS-Series Gen-IV Small-Block V8 |
|---|---|
| Rpo Code | LS3 |
| Engine Type | LS-Series Gen-IV Small-Block V-8 |
| Displacement | 6.2 liters (376 cubic inches) |
| Bore X Stroke | 4.065 x 3.622 inches (103.25 x 92 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Horsepower Rating | 426 to 436 hp |
| Torque Rating | 420 to 428 ft-lbs |
| Configuration | V8 | OHV | 16 valves |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Block Material | Cast aluminum |
| Head Material | Aluminum (rectangular port LS3 heads) |
| Fuel System | Sequential multi port fuel injection |
| Production Years | 2008 to 2017 |
| Common Applications | 5th-gen Camaro SS | C6 Corvette | Pontiac G8 GXP | LS swap projects |
| Price | $6 | 195.00 |
Every Chevrolet LS3 crate motor sold by Vaz Auto Solutions is covered by a 15 day replacement warranty from the date of delivery.
To file a claim, contact us within 15 days of delivery at (240) 301-0095 or support@vazautosolutions.com.
