Chevy/GMC LS Engine
First released in 1997, GM's "LS" based engines (also known as Gen III and Gen IV) revolutionized Chevrolet's lineup. Used in a wide variety of vehicles from the Corvette, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Silverado, Yukon, Cadillac Escalade, and Express vans, these engines were available in multiple displacements: 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L, and 6.2L. Featuring aluminum or cast iron blocks, aluminum cylinder heads, six-bolt main caps, and powder-forged connecting rods, the LS platform significantly improved upon its predecessor, the 350 Chevy. However, it was not without its faults.
Common Issues with the Chevy/GMC LS Engine
Factory engine issues
While the LS engine is known for its popularity and power, several common failure points exist:
Lifter Failures & AFM/DOD Issues
Engines equipped with Displacement On Demand (DOD)/Active Fuel Management (AFM) use special lifters that deactivate four cylinders for better fuel economy. Over time, varnish buildup prevents the lifters from functioning properly, leading to camshaft damage or complete engine failure.
Oil Pressure Problems
Insufficient oil pressure at low engine speeds.
Piston Slap
Improper piston to wall clearances.
Spun Camshaft Bearings
Insufficient interference fit allows the bearing to rotate in the housing bore.
Trunnion Bearing Failures
Uncaged bearings come loose and drop into the engine.
Why Choose Our Remanufactured Chevy/GMC LS Engine?
Engine Upgrades & improvements
A used or simply “rebuilt” engine might not address the recurring problems mentioned above, and you could end up facing the same issues again in the near future. Our 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L LS engines have been remanufactured with the latest technical service bulletins and upgrades to eliminate these failure points and ensure long-lasting performance.
Revised Lifters with Updated Valve Body
Eliminates the common D.O.D/AFM system failures.
Upgraded Oil Pump
Provides higher volume and oil supply.
Coated Skirt Hypereutectic Pistons
Features revised piston-to-wall clearance.
Updated Camshaft Bearings
Tighter interference fit.
Revised Rockers with Updated Bearings
Updated trunion bearing with closed cage.
Compatible Vehicle Applications
1999-2007: 4.8L LR4 Truck/Van Engine — DCTC
1999-2007: 5.3L LM7 Truck, Van (03-07) — DCT8
2001-2007: 6.0L LQ4 Truck 2500-3500 — DCTF
2007-2009: 4.8L LY2 Truck/Van — DCRC
2007-2009: 5.3L LC9 Truck/Van — DCX4
2007-2009: 6.0L LY6 Truck 2500-3500 — DCT11
2010-2017: 4.8L L20 Van, Truck (10-13) — DCRE
2010-2014: 5.3L LC9 Truck/SUV 1500 — DCX14
2010-2014: 5.3L LMF Savana Van — DCT19
2010-2015: 6.0L L96 Van (non-cutaway), SUV — DCT13
2010-2014: 6.2L L94 Yukon/Escalade — DCT91
2011-2019: 6.0L L96 Trucks/Cutaway Van — DCT23
2014-2020: 5.3L L83 Trucks/SUV — DCT21
2014-2020: 6.2L L86 Trucks/Suv — DCT97
Ready to purchase a Chevy/GMC LS Engine?
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