The GM LS-Series cylinder heads are undoubtedly the most popular in the aftermarket currently. They have proven their power potential and are readily available in the market. One can get LS series engines in both new and used condition depending on their choice and budget.
Whether you are a budget enthusiast car lover, someone looking to swap the engine of their vintage muscle car, or an auto racer looking for the best engine swap, you will fi... moreHIGH-PERFORMANCE GM LS-SERIES CYLINDER HEAD GUIDE
The GM LS-Series cylinder heads are undoubtedly the most popular in the aftermarket currently. They have proven their power potential and are readily available in the market. One can get LS series engines in both new and used condition depending on their choice and budget.
Whether you are a budget enthusiast car lover, someone looking to swap the engine of their vintage muscle car, or an auto racer looking for the best engine swap, you will find this cylinder head guide very helpful.
What is a Cylinder Head?
Cylinder heads are the upper part of a car engine; the lower part is called an engine block. It is responsible for closing the combustion chamber of an engine. It is called a cylinder head because it sits over the cylinders in an internal combustion engine and forms the head portion of the combustion chamber.
What’s Special about LS Series Cylinder Heads?
The LS series engines introduced by General Motors in 1997 had the most powerful and advanced cylinder heads that are popular to date. These LS heads meant for bolting up LS engines were lightweight, compact yet powerful. Despite being an economically viable option LS heads provide maximum output and hence are popular in 2023 as well.
General Motors manufactured several versions of LS engines. The LS series engines by General Motors are third and fourth-generation small-block engines. Each of these engines was much better than their existing counterparts. Let us have a brief introduction to all these
LS1 Cylinder Heads
One of the most popular LS engines and LS cylinder heads is the LS1. It has a cathedral-shaped intake port with 67cc combustion chambers. The valve diameter of the intake runner is 2.00 inches and the volume is 200cc. And, the valve runner diameter of the exhaust runner is 1.55 inches and the volume is 70cc. 241 is its unique identification number that is stamped next to the valve cover.
Related Products of LS1 Cylinder Heads:
Chevy Cylinder Head LS1/LS6 243/799, Year:97-04
Chevy Cylinder Head LS1/LS6 243/799 - PAIR, Year:97-04
NEW CNC Ported LS1/LS6 Cylinder Heads .650 Springs 2.02/1.59 Valves PAIR
CNC Ported LS1/LS6 243/799 Cylinder Heads .650 Springs 2.02/1.59 Valves PAIR
LS2 Cylinder Heads
LS2 is a 4th gen, small-block engine with an aluminum body. This was one of the only two engines that the company brought in cars as well as trucks. So, the specifications of LS2 engines vary depending on the vehicle for which it was made. For the LS2 engine used in cars, the combustion chamber volume is 65cc with a cathedral-shaped intake port and an intake runner volume of 210cc. It has a D-shaped exhaust port with a runner volume of 75cc.
LS3 Cylinder Heads
LS3 is a generation 4, 6.2 L small block engine that was used in GM performance cars between 2009 and 2017. These engines are very strong and respond very well to engine upgrades like turbos, superchargers, etc. These engine heads with aluminum bodies came with casting number 821. They have a rectangle-shaped intake port with an intake runner volume of 87cc and a combustion chamber volume of 68cc. The exhaust port is D shaped with an exhaust runner volume of 87cc.
Related Products of LS3 Cylinder Heads:
Chevrolet Cylinder Head LS3 Performance 250cc 75cc - New Assembled Aluminum
NEW CNC Ported LS3 Cyl Heads .650 Springs 2.16/1.59 Valves PAIR
LS4 Cylinder Heads
The LS4 is a 4th gen, 5.3 l aluminum small block engine that was used in GM cars between 2005 and 2009. They had cathedral port cylinder heads and used Active Fuel Management (AFM). The LS4 cylinder heads came with two casting series numbers – 799 and 243. The combustion chamber volume is 65cc. The intake port is cathedral shaped and the intake runner volume is 210cc. The exhaust port is D-shaped with an exhaust runner volume is 75cc.
LS5 Cylinder Heads
The LS5 was a stroked version of an earlier 427 ci big-block that featured a displacement of 454 cubic inches as LS5 cylinder heads. This was a standard cast-iron block with a forged-steel crankshaft. LS5 was a powerful engine that served only 5 years before being discontinued due to the emission standards of the era.
LS6 Cylinder Heads
LS6 is the most powerful generation 3 small block engine. This 5.7 l engine is an improved version of the original LS1 engines. The LS6 cylinder heads have an aluminum body. It has a cathedral-shaped intake port with an intake runner volume of 210cc. The exhaust port is D-shaped with an exhaust runner volume of 75cc.
Related Products of LS6 Cylinder Heads:
Chevy Cylinder Head LS1/LS6 243/799, Year:97-04
Chevy Cylinder Head LS1/LS6 243/799 - PAIR, Year:97-04
NEW CNC Ported LS1/LS6 Cylinder Heads .650 Springs 2.02/1.59 Valves PAIR
CNC Ported LS1/LS6 243/799 Cylinder Heads .650 Springs 2.02/1.59 Valves PAIR
LS7 Cylinder Heads
LS7 is a 4th generation 7 l aluminum small block engine. It was part of General Motors’ high-performance cars between 2006 and 2015. It is the largest displacement engine in the entire LS series. This engine was purposefully built for high performance. The LS7 cylinder heads are made of 356-T6 Aluminum. The intake port is a CNC-ported or raised square port with an intake runner volume of 259cc. The exhaust port is CNC-ported or D-shaped with an exhaust runner volume of 86cc.
Related Products of LS7 Cylinder Heads:
Cylinder Head NEW Performance LS7 255cc & 85cc New Assembled Aluminum
LS9 Cylinder Heads
LS9 is a generation 4 small-block engine used in GM cars between 2009 and 2013. The cylinder heads of LS9 engines came with the casting number 1771. The engine head is made of 356-T6 Rotocast Aluminum. The intake port is rectangular shaped with an intake runner volume of 259cc. The exhaust port is D-shaped with an 89cc runner volume.
LS engines are one of the most popular choices for an engine swap to improve the power and quality of a vehicle. Hope the specific details about various LS engines helped you make a choice.
Check out Our Other Articles:
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823 Heads – Everything You Should Know About
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Vortec Engine History and Cylinder Heads
Ever since humans started using motor cars, they have undergone massive transformations, makeovers and evolutions. Every part of modern-day vehicles is a highly advanced version of what was used in the first car. A massive breakthrough was the introduction of LS1 heads or LS1 cylinder heads. They turned the motor vehicle industry upside down and were considered a significant investment due to their power and dependability. There are so many things and mi... moreLS1 Heads – A Guide To LS1 Cylinder Head
Ever since humans started using motor cars, they have undergone massive transformations, makeovers and evolutions. Every part of modern-day vehicles is a highly advanced version of what was used in the first car. A massive breakthrough was the introduction of LS1 heads or LS1 cylinder heads. They turned the motor vehicle industry upside down and were considered a significant investment due to their power and dependability. There are so many things and microscopic details to learn about LS engines or cylinder heads, and this guide here will familiarise you with most of them.
LS Engines Debut Story
It was in the year 1997 that the LS series initially debuted in the markets, and General Motors gave it the name of 'Third Generation Small Block Models. These Iron Block models were used in trucks initially, and finally, the all-aluminum LS1 version was introduced into the market with Chevrolet Corvette C5. Currently, General Motors associates LS1 cylinder heads with the modern v8 engine family.
The best LS1 heads are known for their power, coupled with a solid construction, compact design, and a storied legacy. These features have made them a legendary choice, and undoubtedly, they are the most prevalent, most studied, and the most sought GM engines. As compared to other V8 options, LS1 243 heads and LS1 ported heads are lightweight and compact in size, but they still deliver unbelievable power.
Strengths of the LS1 Engines
Common people are aware of the potency of LS engines, but they have no idea where they get this strength from. Here are the four reasons why LS engines are still a popular replacement choice in the automobile industry.
Pushrods
The fact is that not just pushrods are incredibly useful, but it is also about what impact they have on the overall engine size. There are no overhead cams and this reduces total height, and as a result, LS heads become more compact than any other smaller displacement engines.
Aluminum Casting
LS1 engines are made from aluminum which is known for their incredible strength and their light weight. Aluminum makes the blocks and heads very light in weight, and this is another reason why LS engines are used in a host of vehicles ranging from classic Camaros to Miatas.
6-Bolt Main Bearing Caps
In these LS1 headers, you will find four bolts going in vertically and two in the horizontal position to create a rigid bottom. This allows LS heads to deliver increased output and get acclaimed as the best in the lot.
Generous Cam-to-Crank Spacing
This space is beneficial as it leaves room to fit a longer throw crank or the longer strokes for the engine. The benefit is a greater swept volume and hence, enhanced power and torque.
Interesting Facts to Know About LS1 Engines
Easy to Get a Hold of and Economical
Yes, this is a fact that LS1 engines are available almost everywhere and at very affordable prices. The reason is the over-production as Chevrolet decided to put them in every rear-wheel drive manufactured by them. The availability of an economical and easy-to-get engine means replacement and repair become significantly easier, and you don't have to hunt down an engine.
Replacement to LT1 Found in Firebirds and Camaros
LT1 was a racing-inspired engine with a high-lift camshaft, high-winding personality, and solid valve lifters. All of them combined to redefine the small block performance of 4th generation F-Body twins like the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird. LS1 came as a replacement for LT1 and promised to make an even greater splash with its new small-block V8 technology. This was an essential chapter in the book of the modern performance of these engines. LT engines were producing an output of 275 horsepower, and its successor, LS1 243 heads came with a whopping power of 345 horsepower.
Designed as a Y-Block Design
Automobile engineers working with Chevrolet were aware that the strength of the block was a critical factor while designing LS1 engines. Hence, to incorporate a solid foundation, they designed the LS block as a Y-Block, as it allows the use of 6 bolt main caps on the crankshaft. We have already discussed above that these 6 bolts design provides rigidity and greater crankshaft.
Have Smaller Proportions than Their Competitors
LS1 engines come with reduced proportions, and this makes it much easier to swap into vehicles even with a small engine base. They get this compact size due to the old-school pushrod design that is distinct from all modern-day engines with overhead cams. The LS1 heads can help you attain better performance and fuel economy at a low price.
Tons of Aftermarket Support
The aftermarket for Chevrolet has sprouted enormously after the advent of LS1 cylinder heads and engines. You will find numerous swap kits in the open market to make it easier to trade Chevrolet LS engines into any other automobile you want.
FAQs?
What Heads Can Go On LS1?
When we talk about bolting an LS head to an LS engine, we are not simply concerned about fitting them together. The LS head and engine must function together. One must remember that a cylinder head should never go with a block whose bore diameter is much smaller than the valve layout featured by the cylinder head.
Running a cylinder head intended for a large bore size with an unfitting block can lead the valves to crash into the block. So, you can note that LS1 and LS6 engines can run only intake manifold, i.e. LS1, LS6 and LS2 cathedral port heads. We can never install LS3, LS7 or LS9 heads on an LS1, LS6 and LS2 block due to the difference in valve and bore sizes.
What Size Are LS1 Heads?
The LS1 heads have 67cc combustion chambers with a cathedral-shaped intake port. The intake runner volume is 200cc with a valve diameter of 2.00 inches, while the exhaust runner volume is 70cc with a valve diameter of 1.55 inches.
What Are The 241 LS1 Heads?
Seven versions of LS engines were produced by General Motors, and most of them featured different heads. A 3-digit unique identification number was assigned to each type of engine head and it is stamped next to the valve cover. 241 is the 3-digit unique identification number used for identifyingLS1 heads. The earlier versions of LS1 heads also had 339, 806 and 853, respectively as the unique identification number.
What LS Head Is The Best?
LS6 heads came and proved to the world that they are far superior in terms of performance than any other engine, including LS1. Unfortunately, these LS6 heads are no longer in production, and this brings us back to LS1 engines. They have performance potential and admirable stability. They are ideal for extreme performance and applications at high loads and high speeds.
Are LS1 And LS2 Heads The Same?
The LS series of engines by General Motors are quite similar to each other, and LS1 and LS2 engines are no exception. There are significant differences between the LS1 and LS2 cylinder heads. The main function of cylinder heads is to control the inflow and outflow of air in the engine.
One key difference is that LS2 cylinder heads allow more airflow as compared to LS1 heads. Further, the combustion chamber of LS1 has a volume of 67cc, which is larger than the combustion chamber of LS2, which is 65cc. This difference in the volume of combustion chambers leads to an increased compression ratio in LS2, which results in greater power output.
How Much HP Is An LS1?
LS1 is one of the engine variants that is known for its horsepower and torque. How much horsepower one can fetch out of an LS1 engine depends on the period it was manufactured, and those manufactured between 1997 and 2000 generated 345 horsepower and torque. Those manufactured between 2001 and 2007 produced 350 horsepower, which got a boost to 400.
What’s Better LS1 or Ls6?
LS1 and LS6 models of the V8 engines are undoubtedly the most reliable engines. One of the best features is their aluminum bodies which make them lighter and stronger, and they are also less prone to wear and tear.
When choosing one, more close observation is required. Since the LS6 model is the modified version of the LS1 model, it comes with a few improved features. The main reason behindLS1 engine upgrading was to improve air intake and increase compression boost output. LS6 engines also have windows cast between the cylinder blocks. So, comparatively, LS6 stands at a slightly better footing. But, at the same time, LS6 engines are costlier than LS1 engines.
Will LS3 Heads Work on LS1?
Yes, LS3 heads can be put on LS1 engines, but together, they will create a piston-to-block clearance issue.
[NOTE- The bore diameter of the LS1 block is much smaller than the valve layout of LS3 cylinder heads.]
Is LS1 A Good Engine?
When introduced by General Motor LS1 was one of the most impressive engines of its era. Since then, many more models and updated designs have been launched, but the reputation of the LS1 model remains unaffected. The combination of compact size and immense power makes LS1 engines a highly trustworthy product in the automobile industry.
There are obviously other engines that are more powerful or more compact in size, but it’s rare to find a combination of both. LS1 engines have a very simple design with a durable body built. This design eases the process of fixing any issue and also provides room for modifications to enhance the functioning. Thanks to its simple design, LS1 is not a costly engine model and is readily available in the market.
The LS3 (6.2L, 376ci) hit the market in 2008 in the new C6 Corvette and ratcheted up the performance with the power output jumping to 430 horsepower! More strength was added to the LS3 block (which helped handle the power from the supercharged LS9 for the ZR1 Vette). The Pontiac G8 GXP also received the LS3 (415 hp). In 2010, the relaunched Camaro SS got the LS3 (426 hp) in the manual-equipped cars and an L99 (400 hp) version with Active Fuel Management (cylinder de... moreLS3 Heads & Its Applications
The LS3 (6.2L, 376ci) hit the market in 2008 in the new C6 Corvette and ratcheted up the performance with the power output jumping to 430 horsepower! More strength was added to the LS3 block (which helped handle the power from the supercharged LS9 for the ZR1 Vette). The Pontiac G8 GXP also received the LS3 (415 hp). In 2010, the relaunched Camaro SS got the LS3 (426 hp) in the manual-equipped cars and an L99 (400 hp) version with Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation). The increased displacement was due to a bump in bore size to 4.065 inches. Add a 4.000-inch stroke and end up with a 415ci mill.
As we all know, an ls engine is nothing without a good set of ls heads. And when it comes to ls heads, the LS3 heads are some of the best you can get.
But what exactly are LS3 heads? And what are their applications?
What Are LS3 Heads?
In a nutshell, LS3 heads are simply aftermarket cylinder heads that have been designed for ls engines. Typically, LS3 heads will offer improved airflow over stock ls heads, which can lead to increased power output. In addition, LS3 heads often feature larger valves and/or ported designs, which further improve airflow and power.
So if you’re looking to get the most out of your ls engine, a set of LS3 heads is worth considering.
LS3 Heads Specifications
Material Make
LS3 heads are often made from high-quality materials such as aluminum or titanium. This further improves airflow and helps to reduce weight compared to stock ls heads (which are typically made from cast iron).
Reducing weight can be beneficial for several reasons, including improved performance and fuel efficiency.
As far as specific materials go, many LS3 heads are made from A356-T6 aluminum. This is a high-strength aluminum alloy that’s commonly used in the aerospace industry.
It’s also worth noting that some LS3 heads may feature castings or other components made from other materials, such as steel.
Valve Sizes
As you might expect, the valves on LS3 heads are usually larger than the valves on stock ls heads. This is because larger valves can flow more air, which can lead to increased power output. Common valve sizes for LS3 heads include 2.165 inches (intake) and 1.590 inches (exhaust).
However, it’s not uncommon for LS3 heads to feature even larger valves. For example, some aftermarket LS3 heads may have 2.200-inch intake valves and 1.625-inch exhaust valves.
Porting
In addition to larger valves, many LS3 heads also feature ported designs. Porting refers to the process of enlarging and shaping the intake and exhaust ports. This can further improve airflow, which can lead to even more power.
It’s also worth noting that some LS3 heads may feature other types of upgrades or modifications, such as CNC-machined combustion chambers. These sorts of modifications can further improve airflow and power output.
Applications
LS3 heads are most commonly used in performance applications where increased airflow and power are desired. LS3 heads are often used in racing engines where every last bit of power is needed.
Additionally, LS3 heads can also be a good choice for street engines that will see occasional track use. This is because LS3 heads can help to make your engine more powerful and responsive, without sacrificing reliability.
So if you’re looking for a set of ls heads that can offer improved performance, LS3 heads are worth considering.
LS Heads FAQs
How good are LS3 heads?
Given that a stock LS3 head's flow rate is more than 315 cfm and can support over 650 horsepower on the proper application, increasing performance necessitates not only a decent set of aftermarket heads, but also an engine with plenty of power. The more air that goes through the engine, the more horsepower it generates.
Are LS3 heads interchangeable?
Rectangular intake ports are found on the LS7, L92, and LS3 heads. Interchangeability between blocks is available for all LS cylinder heads except the LS7 heads. Because of their wider valve layout, the LS7 cylinder heads cannot be used on other LS blocks.
Are LS3 heads good for boost?
Unlike the naturally aspirated engine, however, the LS3 heads produced more power under boost. The extra power, too, created greater backpressure. Boost pressure peaked at 7.6 psi at 7,000 rpm and fell to 6.4 psi at 7,500 rpm.
How much power can LS3 heads make?
The LS3 engine block may be boosted to 850 to 1,000 horsepower. Both engines feature rectangular port cylinder heads with a common 4.065-inch bore diameter and internally threaded oil passages for Active Fuel Management (AFM).
Are LS2 and LS3 heads the same?
But the most obvious difference between the two is the displacement. The LS2 has 6.0L of displacement and is technically the first Gen IV Chevrolet engine. The LS3, on the other hand, has 6.2L of displacement and is also a Gen IV Chevrolet engine. To no one's surprise, the LS3 heads are better than the LS2 heads.
Can a stock LS3 handle a supercharger?
The LS3 draws from the experience of earlier models in the LS family of engines. Even with a power adder, the factory LS3 bottom end can handle a significant amount of power.
How do I get more power out of my LS3?
Upgrading the LS3 Intake Manifold and Throttle Body The rectangular ports work well, although an aftermarket intake can still produce more power. Shorter runner intake manifolds and single-plane intakes make more top-end horsepower but may lose similar amounts of low-end torque.
Conclusion
If you are looking for LS3 heads, Allied Motor Parts is the best place to get them. Call us today.
Related Products of LS3 Cylinder Heads:
Chevrolet Cylinder Head LS3 Performance 250cc 75cc - New Assembled Aluminum
NEW CNC Ported LS3 Cyl Heads .650 Springs 2.16/1.59 Valves PAIR
Check out Our Other Articles:
All About 243 LS Heads & Their Application
799 Heads & Its Application
Are 862 Heads a Better Choice?
Why Chevy 706 Heads LS Make a Great Choice?
13 Step Process for Remanufacturing Cylinder Heads
Ford V10 Cylinder Head Replacement
Cylinder Heads for the Chevrolet 350 - What You Need to Know
Vortec Engine History and Cylinder Heads
799 Heads: All About 799 LS Heads & Their Application
The 799 LS heads are some of the most popular heads used in LS engines. They offer excellent performance with increased horsepower making it a preferred choice for a porting job.
These 799 heads are the latest model and are made using the semi-permanent mold method. While they are similar to 2004 LS2 heads in terms of triangular casting, they do not require cleaning like the 243 heads.
The LS engines designed with 799 heads were 5.3L ... more799 Heads: All About 799 LS Heads & Their Application
The 799 LS heads are some of the most popular heads used in LS engines. They offer excellent performance with increased horsepower making it a preferred choice for a porting job.
These 799 heads are the latest model and are made using the semi-permanent mold method. While they are similar to 2004 LS2 heads in terms of triangular casting, they do not require cleaning like the 243 heads.
The LS engines designed with 799 heads were 5.3L and 4.8L truck engines. The sophisticated architecture with a cathedral-shaped port allowed 799 heads to offer amazing performance on truck engines.
If you are looking for 799 LS heads, Allied Motor Parts is the best place to get them. Call us today.Ported 799 heads ensure high-quality performance and efficiency. However, before porting, you should make yourself aware of the specifications. For instance, the 799 cylinder heads come with a smaller combustion chamber than its counterparts. So porting to 799 LS heads would mean milling the cylinder heads to cover up for the bigger size of the former combustion chamber.
