What LS Engine should you get for your swap??

Link to my website, www.thedrivewayengineer.com
Link to our Facebook group, / 887277178144274
Trying to do a overview of the different budget swap options out there.
First part in a multipart series planned.
The Driveway Engineer,
PO Box 17
Orleans Mi, 48865

[@kashifwright152]

Man this is the most honest video on youtube ive seen thanks for the info

[@Tsalinger]

Except he's wrong. You can buy a Gen 1 Vortec headed roller cam motor "NEW" that puts out 330hp for 2500 bucks. Any high school kid can get get 400hp with cam change and some simple port matching.. Sorry but I want a new motor that starts every time. Used coil packs used MAS air used used used including the wiring just don't cut it when your constantly hunting Gremlin's and buying parts. AF gauge and a MSD unit with the manual timing control and 3 spark ignition and your good to go. In fact if the MSD unit does go bad you can disconnect it and keep heading down the road. I do have an LS1 with an Edelbrock carb intake and a crank trigger and it runs great. Day in day out daily drivers I see as Gen1's with roller cams and a manual transmission. They last forever with zero problems if you change the oil and air filter and drive like a semi sane person. Keep it simple stupid.

[@georgeloyie7456]

​These engines and related parts like coil packs are pretty durable. I've seen many go past 500,000 kms up here in Canada and with the original coil packs and electronics. That's around 300,000 "gremlin free" miles man. My little 4.8? Fuck if I drove my Vortec 350 anywhere near as crazy as I drive the 4.8 that 350'd quickly shit the bed hands down. I wanted an engine I could drive, not fuckin tip toe around in like a semi sane person.

[@kidsanjose4707]

Check out that one guy honeybadger LSX

[@TorquePowerVideo]

Thanks for taking the time to make these videos. I've watched several of them now and I'm a total newb to the LS world. They've been a great source of real world advice and info.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Thanks for the feedback! I'm glad they're helping!

[@jenniferbennett6693]

Your an inspiration! Thank for taking out your time to teach and spread knowledge.

[@andrewpate9157]

Basic and straight up. Thanks this helps a lot. I am new to the LS swap but trying to learn. I have a 74 C10 that’s been in the family for years. I’ll be watching more of your video’s. Thanks

[@henrycarnill9838]

Great advice mate, I'm in the UK but looking to pick up an "LS" next week when I'm in the states and ship it home. I'll be looking for the most complete engine, because it'll be a nightmare getting lots of parts over the pond. Cheers!

[@duramax78]

Did you get one? How is it now.?

[@skipshull7235]

Did you get it yet?!

[@jordongrant2782]

Really informative, no nonsense. Subbed.

[@ThomasWilliams-uq9lo]

I love the straight to the point information. So many other channels and people out there beat around the bush or lead you in the wrong direction. Need more people like you. Thank you.

[@thomasmason7626]

Great video finally someone with knowledge and old fashioned common sense!

[@mrhaynes1974]

Thanks for the video now I can really get on with my one of a kind project.. I'm so freaking happy...

[@derschu6953]

thank you for the information! I’m more confident about pursuing an LS build to replace the not running good 305 in my old truck and now that I know how achievable it is I can’t wait to start a build budget and get the old girl back on the road again

[@AnthonyJ350]

Great video! Really helps simplify engine choices for someone that is just getting into these.

[@angrypanda3014]

Excellent video! This is exactly what people need to hear; the right information on what to buy, what to avoid and what is a waste of money. Thank You.

[@aaronshensky9385]

Glad i found this channel. Thank you JR. I have a 84 c10 chevy with a tired weak 350 v8. I know nothing of LS swaps until this video. Looking forward to more of your Ls videos/details. Thank you

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Thanks for watching!

[@johnsmert3361]

Check LS Guru chan as well

[@timtravasos2742]

Awesome examples of pricing and availability and what to look for.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Thank you for watching!

[@350Gizzle]

I just came across your video. Thanks for the knowledge! I just bought a 78 Nova last weekend and me and my mechanic is going to the yard to try to find an LS to put in there. Now I know what I'm looking for on a budget!

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Simplest, easiest thing, 99-02 size whatever, take all of the harness and flexplate. If it's 2wd, take the trans too.

[@vicguy01]

I've been thinking about doing up an LS for a while now. Great advice in this video. I'm looking forward to more videos on the process.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

I don't have all the answers, but I have some lol. It's my goal to show people that they can do this with modest toolsets and skills, in their driveways, no lift, no credit card. If you can do ordinary hot rod things like swap a cam, you can swap an LS and wire it. I'm really glad to hear I've encouraged you.

[@vicguy01]

@@TheDrivewayEngineer I can do the mechanical stuff no problem. It's the wiring that has me scratching my head.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

The wiring is incredibly easy once you understand it. I'll do an overview in the next week or so.

[@vicguy01]

@@TheDrivewayEngineer looking forward to it!

[@AreaThirteenThirteen]

I am kinda new to this LS thing but the more videos I watch the more interesting it becomes...I remember when the 5.3 first came out and figured it was just a new version of the old 327 with all of the computer junk on it...years went by then I started watching videos about how well built these engines are and the power you can make on the stock internals and now with all of the information available and the aftermarket support it doesn't seem as intimidating to an old schooler like me to go ahead and roll the dice and take on one of these builds..by the way I like your budget minded approach how it can be done on a working mans budget without tons of unnecessary and overly costly parts or a fancy shop to work out of...you just earned yourself a new subscriber!👍👍😎😎🏁🏁

[@goinhard8931]

Good speak brother..I'm planning a swap for my 86 Landau..This is a great information guide for the starting process..

[@Dr.Andre_Darby]

Goin hard I started with a box Chevy “Ross voice” 💯

[@myoneblackfriend3151]

J.R., I am the budget-minded neophyte. Thank you for keeping it simple.

[@ralphfreeman255]

This topic will never die! Appreciate it

[@LastSonOfKickton]

Thanx for this video! I want to Ls swap my 88 cutless this is a great video!

[@MichaelMcFearin]

You bring up some great points, thanks for the reassurances.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

I'm glad it helped, thanks for watching!

[@charlieduncan6596]

Was going to get rid of my Colorado but after watching your video, I have a new plan. Keep it and repower with an LS engine. Thanks for planting the seed.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Just remember to keep it simple, find a runner and drop it in.

[@richardvargas9224]

Thank you, like many I appreciate you making these videos they are extremely useful.

[@Johnny-jr2lq]

Warren Michigan checking in love the videos I’m gonna put one of the LS engines in my s10 I’ll be watching every video you have

[@SupraBdub]

Thanks for the videos. I will be swapping 4.8 or 5.3 into my 78gmc and you are honest and helpful in these. Subbed

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Thanks for watching! And the compliments!

[@estebahngoldman396]

The only difference betwwen 4.8 and 5.3 is the top the piston. Flat vs dish

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

That and the stroke lol

[@mrclean146]

Perfect. Haven't touched my truck in 3 year. A friend gave me a motor that runs however it's a 350 and I talked to original owner and he said the same"BUT" has 200 miles on it. So when you said the 4.8 with a came will do better and probably better gas mileage well I'm sold and subscribed. Thank you.

[@bobhodson7640]

This is a great video, I have played with small blocks for 30 years, But it time to learn about LS engine .......Thanks

[@sheldonvanek9791]

Great Video, I'm starting a 5.3 swap in my 1989 Trans am bought it complete for 600.00 and drove 200 miles. Very interested in this series. So keep up the great JOB!

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Sweet! I'm glad to hear it helped you out, thanks for watching!

[@thenexthobby]

Looking forward to watching the rest of this "LS Swap Basics" playlist. There's a half ton 350 and a 1-ton 454 in our fleet (both are TBI trucks) that if we hang on to them will likely need swaps of some kind, and if this is affordable/reliable I'll be all about it.

[@robertcox4973]

Awesome clearing the air about. What to look for and what you don't need to buy to make one work

[@jasonmc2351]

3 years later and this still very helpful

[@DELTRANIO99]

Great info vid ,You be hearing a lot from me when I do mine lol

[@ED-gf4ff]

Ok, I’ll start watching your videos cause I’ll want to swap a 5.3 for my 66 Chevy II

[@Bigskyguy56]

Again, GREAT , STRAIGHT FORWARD , HONEST Info. Thanks. You are putting light in the dark areas of LS engine swaps. Stay Real

[@frankhagar4651]

All good advice , just found your channel I subscribed just started to learn about LS1 myself.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Thanks, I hope it helps you out!

[@bigcountry19782010]

Looking forward to seeing more of these videos. I was going to swap a 383 into my 95 K1500 but a couple of friends told me I should LS swap it because its a way better engine than the traditional small block. I'm looking for a 6.0 with a 4L80E for my truck mainly because it's 4X4 and it's going to be kinda my hotrod.

[@57LHemi]

Cool video you have a lot of informative information about doing an LS swap. I recently bought a 1996 Chevrolet Impala that came stock with a 5.7 LT1 350. I plan on daily driving in the car for the most part but in the future I would like to put an LS motor in it. I would prefer the 5.3 L or a 6.0 if I can find one for a good price. I'm glad to see that you can find and buy these LS Motors complete with computer and wiring harness and most of all the accessories for a reasonably cheap price. I do all of my own mechanic work so there wouldn't be any labor cost associated with me doing the swap. Very cool I plan on watching the rest of your videos concerning the motor mounts and everything.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Thanks for watching! It's easier than people make it out to be for sure!

[@ferdinandgraham409]

Great job.i like your honesty and info

[@miketyree9188]

great info.my tired suburban needs an upgrade. thank you for helping me with my decision.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@stlchucko]

“Which LS is best for swapping” Yes.... Unless it’s going in sideways, then LS4. But otherwise, yes.

[@youngestson6537]

Great video. Great information.

[@tomguest3702]

Oh wow I'm going to definitely watch this series I'm thinking about putting a LS engine in my 98 Chevy S10

[@luissonoma6255]

Just subscribed, looking forward to learning from the videos you’ve posted. Thank you.

[@paulsalmon5928]

Good stuff here my friend. I own a '02 Camaro SLP SS with the fabulous LS1. I might have it tuned professionally soon and may consider a cam and header swap in future. Its fantastic as is but those mods. I know will make it an even better Mustang killer. Take care all!

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Tunes are very effective on LS based engines, moreso on trucks, but still worth the time on cars as well.

[@blackmacgyver9965]

I just subbed after watching ls build on a budget. Gonna use some of the info. For a turbo ls. I'm also in Michigan 👍🏽

[@amgam3ing554]

Awesome bro this video helped me find my engine and trans!! Beginning work on my 84 Camaro this week. LS swapping my little old v6.

[@austinwelch1132]

I am really glad i came across your video, I wasnt sure about what exactly i needed to do for a fuel system and a wiring harness. Also, i was convinced that i was going to have to spend the $1,100 for a semi complete motor off of ebay or other various sites. Thanks for the good info, not to figure out how to adapt the LS harness to what my car has without destroying it.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Hey, I'm glad it helped! I have a few harness videos, but the basic idea is that the LS harness stands alone, needs a few 12v in wires and that's it, mostly separate from your car unless you're trying to get factory gauges to work. Even then the gauges are separate from the engine harneas

[@greasemonkey258]

"dumb hillbillies crashing Z71s" 😂 you see it once a day in Alabama, twice a day on the weekends. This video is great for the audience it was meant for, subscribed. 👍

[@MattySlimz]

Same goes for “Gangsters* crashing up all the Charger/Challenger/300C Hemi/Hellcat Hemis. Hemis are becoming a popular swap, Holley and the like are opening up the aftermarket for mounts, harnesses to do Hemi swaps. Gotta be more options than just LS, it’s 2020.

[@Foundmylsswap]

@@MattySlimz true. But the marketing will keep those swaps expensive. “It’s a Hemi” after all 🙄 there are fields of gm gold laying around. Literally within 10 minutes of wherever you live. I ain’t hating. I just don’t see any dodge cube vans err sprinter vans rolling around town with motors capable of making 1000 HP.

[@abarney1547]

Simple .... all of them .

[@nithinnitro4706]

Very good blog bro keep on going... there is nothing else like passing information 🙌👏👏👏👏👏

[@raymondrogers679]

I really appreciate you This is what I need to know God-bless you I'm watching you now I have a 1983 Cutlass Caprice

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Hey, I'm glad this helped you out!

[@TheMr0450]

I love the way you simplify stuff.. inspiring bro.. I jus got hold of a 80 series Land Cruiser. Bookmarked your channel, FB page for all the advice I wud need to try out a swap myself.. I like working alone and have never worked on cars before..but willing to learn all that it takes.. u reckon going solo on the swap would make it difficult ?

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

I do almost all of my work alone. Sometimes my wife helps hold things or whatever, but it's mostly me and clever placement of ratchet straps and levers lol. I'm glad you're inspired to take on a project! And Land Are awesome! Post it up on the Facebook group, I'd love to see it.

[@hookshotrods7161]

this series is a good idea thank you for sharing your knowledge

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

It's my pleasure, I'm glad it's helping people out!

[@walterburaconak6260]

thanks for the simple and easy explanation of engines.

[@houstonclarke8001]

Thanks for this. I’m thinking of a project you helped in my journey!

[@2tmacisback]

Just saw you April 27. Fantastic video. Just bought my 5.3 complete 2006, 60 k miles, every hang on component with CPU wiring 4 speed auto out of 2 wheel drive for swap to my 55 Bel Air.$600. Just a no nonsense video. Thanks for posting.

[@mrcokez1]

yeah i was thinking about putting an LS in my mustang i was going to go with a 351w swap but you cant deny how some LS engines can go for dirt cheap. Ive seen some as low $100 for the longblock. the mustang is a 1994 v6 that i picked up for $500 clean title . _Edit: Great video +1Sub_

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

My first swap was a 94 Mustang lol, I put way to much into it, but the logic was the same. Bang for the buck, to get to GT specs, or better, was going to be 3k,for 200 hp, so a 5.3 went in. With a cam, longtubes, and a 4L60 it made 330 tire.

[@mrcokez1]

yeah that's something similar as what i want to do, nothing too crazy but still fun to drive during the weekends. thanks for the suggestion.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

My main advice is keep it simple. I've spent all the money before, and it's not worth it. You can spend alit really fast with while you're at it stuff

[@biglon62]

Awesome man continue!!

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Will do! Thanks for watching!

[@hardrock6034]

Outstanding, no nonsense presentation. 👍👍

[@hightowerracing]

This is exactly what we needed. Keep them coming brotha 💯

[@deanm3464]

I was given a 2006 Sierra 1 ton van with a 6.0l lq4 and I have a 1995 mustang gt thinking might be worth the swap

[@suprmn1978]

LS swap they said, you’ll love it they said, no replacement for displacement they said....well after looking for the right 6.0 and not finding one.....I went the car engine route because we had one where I work that was going to the scrap yard. 04 GTO 5.7 LS1 w/84K miles.....$400 complete, drove it in the shop and pulled everything. It’s not installed yet due to winter but it’s getting close. Lol. Good info.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

That's the spirit, I'll put a 4.8 in my wifes Olds 98, IDC, whatever is available lol, I'd rather do burnouts now than later.

[@suprmn1978]

LS swap granny’s Mini Cooper while she’s on vacation.....lol

[@marchedy8228]

wish i had the 5.7 ..just bough a gto roller with no engine or trans lol !

[@jaefousable]

400!??

[@Lu-e]

You got lucky

[@angrykiwi6360]

I literally love your channel, I constantly see youtubers yapping about “oH gEt tHe $5000 kIt aNd sAvE yOuRsElF tHe tRoUbLe” like bruh, maybe I’m a college student first getting into engineering and mechanical killjoy and I don’t want to spend all my hard earned schmeckels on excess. Ty

[@billydamnit]

A man who is willing to break down the simple parts of any subject, instead of being a condescending prick, gets my like and subscription.

[@alonzofloyd8140]

Again Bro thanks for the edrucation

[@ianjohnston8057]

Cool, man. This video is really making my wallet feel powerful again.

[@2JZLS]

Im gonna watch these vids for the next few Hours. Thanks in advance, for sharing so much knowledge.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Awesome, thank you!

[@fasteddie9475]

JR, thank you soo much for helping me out with your videos, I am an older mechanic who doesn't know shit about these LS swaps, am getting ready to do a swap on an old Datsun 260Z and also on a 72 C10. Keep up the great work, THX, Ed

[@JOMaMa..]

Huge improvement to the Datsun 👍

[@eddiebully8727]

Dude GOODBLESS YOU BRO I NEEDED THIS INFO.

[@chiefsmakaho9882]

Str8 to the point.. finally found someone real.

[@OOICU812]

JR I like the way you think. Thanks for this down-to-earth video. Subbed.

[@cheth6296]

Thank you very much for being honest and sharing your knowledge.

[@ceom.o.b1395]

Thanks for the video. I'm trying to get my feet wet in the LS market

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

It's easier than you think. Just buy the most complete engine you can find, don't try to mix and match when you're new.

[@ceom.o.b1395]

Ok

[@craigmax3779]

Awesome info dude! I've been looking at ls2 and 3s for my 66 gto retro. I'm just gonna ask if I'm stupid everyone can have a good laugh. Will the 6.0 LQ9 fit the same as the ls2 in my goat........ I paused for laughter. Any ifo would be much appreciated. Keep educating us or me. Thanks a million or several grand.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

The only difference is the intake. My buddies 66 Chevelle cleared the truck intake easily, you should also

[@knightmare1015]

I have the 2013 flex fuel 5.3 liter LH8 with Vortec heads and it also has cylinder deactivation and each coil pack is self tuning for maximum efficientcy and it's a beast. Not only does it run and sound good, I get extremely good MPG's too.

[@TimsInsanity]

Bro, you are 100% correct! People often get caught up in all of the online BS. You take a very logical approach & that is smart. Great video!!!

[@artart7943]

do you have a video on what to do or look for or what needs to be changed when we purchase a high millage ls?

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

If you look in the Junkyard Jewel playlist, I'm going through one now.

[@HypocriticYT]

taken care of the LS1 engine can go many miles. Mine has over 330,000kms and going strong as new in its original Camaro SS.

[@ninoreeves7702]

ill be following . ive been wanting to learn more. thank you good sir

[@desertsnakezerke1042]

Great vids, very informative. I live in northern Minnesota , & we have to travel & scrounge around to find decent stuff.

[@jamest.5001]

I bought a very nice 96 s10, it just needs a engine, I'm thinking 4.8L start out basically stock, maybe a cam, and work up to a turbo maybe, after that maybe LS a 68 GMC, 64 Nova, who knows , maybe swap everything!

[@stephenlott6968]

I'd go with a 5.3. The 4.8, 5.3 and 6.0 are the exact same size, and have similar weights, with the 4.8 possibly weighing more because of its lower displacement, so there's less metal bored out of the block. There's no benefit to the 4.8 unless you already have one sitting around or something. If you're buying one the 5.3 is cheaper and slightly easier to find than the 4.8 engine too.

[@hardball107]

@@stephenlott6968 The 4.8 and the 5.3 share the same bore, the 4.8 uses a shorter stroke that's why the blocks are marked 4.8/5.3. The pistons in the 4.8 are flat tops, I've installed them in 5.3's to bump the compression 3/4 of a point for a few more hp. 5.3's are the way to go.

[@andrewgraham4276]

Would the 5.3 out of my 2001 GMC Yukon slt work

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Absolutely!

[@yvanpicard672]

Great info exactly what I was looking for !!!

[@jeremythomas7792]

Man you are a life saver 💯💯 thanks bro honestly

[@CatlocosGarage]

I have a 5.3 and 6.0 ready for a swap. I'll be very interested in seeing this series. Thanks

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Hey! Good to see you're still around!

[@CatlocosGarage]

@@TheDrivewayEngineer Yep. Just took a break for personal stuff and getting garage cleaned up to start my builds.

[@209chevymon]

Cant bet those complete 4.8 and 5.3 engines there so good great engines to get you in the game and to have some fun boys and 500 is not high at all in cali thats a steal compared to the price they want for them out here and again 500 for a complete 4.8/5.3 you cant go wrong as long as you dont get into the hype and crazyness with all the aftermarket mumbo jumbo if you get caught in all that then thats gunna destroy the budget real real quick trust me

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

That's exactly what happens, then they run out of money and sell it all for half price lol

[@daniel3-d98]

Hell ya bro. I like it. Keep it simple. Simple is clean. I'm working on 82 f150 Ls 5.3

[@daviddavid5880]

The biggest one you can scrounge of course. But seriously, this channel is a big reason I went for a swap. Thanks. (And yes, I did get too big of an engine. Cuz I'm a toddler)

[@graysonvongrayson4857]

6 bolt mains VS 2 bolt mains, the LS is awesome!

[@bilbobaggins4710]

6 is overkill unless your turboed with 1500hp

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

6 is what they have regardless lol

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Mike C yeah Ford did it quite awhile back lol

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

That’s the first mainstream cross bolted block I’m aware of as well, to be honest, I wouldn’t really count the cross bolts, they only stop cap walk really, but it sounds super cool to say lol.

[@georgiaboy1579]

307 with a Crane Fireball II Cam. Lol

[@johncalhoun8011]

I really appreciate your honesty about that RIP Off After market stuff.

[@drtb69]

Good video! All those tools and parts add up.real quick and take years to learn how to make work right. !

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Thanks for watching!

[@burquenomadrid]

Where exactly do you live to get engine prices like that

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Michigan, but anywhere in America is only a 2 day drive from anywhere else in America, take a road trip, see the country, get a cheap engine.

[@gregklubek6016]

Thanks for the video, where are you getting 6.2's for $1200?

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

If 6.2's are what you took away from this video, then you missed the entire point of the video.

[@gregklubek6016]

The Driveway Engineer OK… I was just curious where you’re getting them for that price…Because of where I live I can’t get them for that price and I was looking to get one.

[@sethmorton8539]

Living here in St. Louis mo the 6.0 is are around 1700 but the 5.3 are 150$ with 50$ core I must say they are running

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

For fun, I went and looked at local yards in St Louis, engine, complete, lists for 199 at LKQ with a 70 core.

[@sethmorton8539]

The Driveway Engineer lkq?

[@jonliebler6179]

This video changed my life.

[@jasonthomas1815]

Awesome info ! Thanks much Keep the video's coming

[@invertedpolarity6890]

5.3 Liter LS is easiest to find and cheapest.

[@jv-ip1go]

Got mine out of a trail blazer for 800 bucks

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Yeah, those are pretty good ones, I actually had a V8 Trailblazer for awhile, I liked it lol.

[@timtravasos2742]

Very good technical info and common sense info.

[@Hayleboi]

Keep these videos coming. I love the content.

[@TheDrivewayEngineer]

Thanks for watching!