View Full Version : Has anyone used an LM4 or other truck-based LS motor?
NorCalScott
09-17-2017, 07:08 PM
So I'm guessing that using an LS motor from a donor truck instead of a car wouldn't be a problem when registering a GTM using the SB100 "body type" method, but I'm wondering if anyone has done it. When performing an engine swap, using a truck motor in a car is not allowed so I just want to be sure it's a non-issue in a kit car. I have read everything I could find on the subject.
carbon fiber
09-17-2017, 09:58 PM
Don't know about the laws in Cali, but I'm using an lq4/ls3 head hybrid in mine in N.C. You'll need the car oil pan, accessories, ls1 water pump, etc. Kalstar used an l33 aluminum 5.3
wallace18
09-18-2017, 06:26 AM
Check a thread by Kalstar. He used a truck LS in his GTM build.
NorCalScott
09-18-2017, 08:28 AM
Thank you both.
Carbon- I'd like to check out your build thread too if you have one.
LCD Gauges
09-19-2017, 10:34 PM
I'm using a modified LQ9 in my car. Nothing in Ontario, Canada that prevents us from using a truck motor.
carbon fiber
09-20-2017, 07:25 PM
There's been four with truck engines: Kalstar (L33 stock with cam) blast3ro (LM7 twin-turbo) carbon fiber (modified LQ4/LS3 heads) Procision Auto (modified LQ9). Three of us are running G96.00 or G96.01 instead of the G50 transaxle also.
Blast3r0
11-17-2017, 07:28 AM
For anyone down the road searching for this topic: The Gen III truck blocks are identical in dimensions, however there is a boss on most of the blocks that is not drilled and tapped. This is where ffr mounts the low alternator bracket, you will have to drill and tap this. Other than that I went and bought all new ls1 corvette accessories(you don't want to have to replace these in the car). Holley makes a low profile oil pan but almost all ls engine oil pans bolt up.
As far as legality, I've never heard of not being able to use a truck motor in a car. There are aluminum truck engines that are nearly identical to their car counterparts.