Chevrolet LS3 Crate Motor Gen-IV Small-Block V8 430 HP for Sale | OEM 6.2L (376 cu in)
$6,195.00
At a Glance
- Displacement: 6.2L (376 cu in) Gen-IV LS small-block V8
- Horsepower: 426 to 436 hp factory rated
- Condition: OEM used, packaged as a complete crate-motor configuration
- SKU Reference: vaz82 (cite this SKU when calling for stock or pricing)
- Shipping: Free crated freight to all 50 states, 5 to 10 business days
- Camaro F-body oil pan included (compatible with most swap applications)
- Intake manifold assembly with fuel injectors included
- Complete ignition system included
- Standard front-end accessory drive (FEAD) kit included
- Detailed installation instructions and necessary hardware included
- Compression tested across all 8 cylinders before shipping
- 100% fitment verified before every order ships
- Backed by a 15 day replacement warranty against internal defects
Description
About the Chevrolet LS3 Crate Motor Gen-IV Small-Block V8 430 HP
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 are 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.
Why the LS3 Became the LS Swap Standard
The LS3 became the most popular LS swap engine of all time for several reasons:
- Factory 430 hp output is exceptional for a naturally aspirated 6.2L pushrod V8
- Rectangular port aluminum heads flow significantly better than earlier LS1 / LS2 cathedral port heads, supporting higher peak horsepower
- Modern fuel injection with sequential multi-port and refined ECU calibration
- Compact V8 architecture fits in nearly any engine bay (small block dimensions)
- Lightweight aluminum block and heads keep the package weight reasonable
- Extensive aftermarket support with cams, headers, intake manifolds, supercharger kits, turbo kits, and tuning options widely available
- Direct ECU compatibility with E38 ECU (factory Camaro SS) and aftermarket ECU options
- Drop-in fitment into Camaro F-body, GTO, G8, and many swap chassis with appropriate motor mounts
LS Engine Prices and Why Builders Choose the LS3
Among current LS engine prices in the used and crate market, the LS3 sits in a sweet spot of performance, availability, and value. Bare LS1 cores are the cheapest entry point but produce significantly less power. The LS7 (Z06 C6 Corvette engine) commands a premium pricing tier well above this LS3 due to its 7.0L displacement and limited production volume. The LS3 motor price for a clean tested unit like this package typically lands between these, while delivering 430 horsepower factory rated and supporting 480 to 520 hp with simple cam, header, intake, and tune work. Call us for current LS3 pricing on this configuration and we will share availability across donor sources (Camaro SS, C6 Corvette) and notes on each.
Performance Features for the LS3 Crate Motor
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 robust design and powerful output make it an excellent choice for both racing and everyday driving.
Compatibility
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.
Common LS3 Swap Applications
- Classic muscle car restomods: 1967 to 1972 Camaro, 1968 to 1972 Chevelle, 1970 to 1972 Monte Carlo, 1968 to 1969 Nova, 1955 to 1957 Bel Air, 1969 to 1970 Mustang, etc.
- Square-body Chevy / GMC truck restomods: 1973 to 1987 C/K series with LS3 swap is one of the most popular truck builds
- Project car builds: Modern hot rods, kit cars, custom builds requiring high-output naturally aspirated power
- C6 Corvette repower: Original LS3-powered Corvette needing replacement
- Camaro SS repower: 5th-gen Camaro SS needing replacement after high-mileage retirement of original engine
Components Included
The LS3 crate motor package comes complete and ready for installation, including:
- Camaro F-body oil pan (compatible with most swap applications, can be replaced with truck oil pan or aftermarket low-profile pan as needed)
- Intake manifold assembly with fuel injectors
- Complete ignition system (coil packs, spark plug wires)
- Standard front-end accessory drive (FEAD) kit (alternator, power steering, water pump, idler pulleys, belt)
- Detailed installation instructions and necessary hardware
Installation and Maintenance
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:
- Oil and filter: Every 5,000 miles, premium full synthetic 5W-30 (Dexos1 spec)
- Spark plugs: Every 100,000 miles (factory iridium plugs)
- Coolant: Every 5 years or 100,000 miles
- Air filter: Inspect at every oil change, replace as needed
- Transmission service: Per transmission manufacturer specs (varies by application)
Performance Upgrades and Modifications
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:
- Naturally aspirated: Cam, springs, headers, intake, tune typically yields 480 to 520 hp
- Supercharger: Magnuson, Whipple, Procharger, Vortech kits typically yield 550 to 750 hp
- Turbocharger: Single or twin turbo setups can produce 700 to 1,200-plus hp depending on internal preparation
These modifications can enhance performance further while maintaining the reliability that GM LS engines are famous for. Note that modifications might affect warranty terms.
Comparison with Other Engines
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 is 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.
LS3 vs Other LS Variants
| 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 |
Why a Crate LS3 vs a Used Pull
A crate LS3 is the right choice for buyers who:
- Want a complete package ready to install (oil pan, intake, injectors, ignition, FEAD)
- Are doing a swap into a chassis where stripping a donor is not practical
- Want documented hours / mileage history
- Need the package convenience of one purchase rather than sourcing components separately
- Want clean visual aesthetics (a fresh-looking engine in the bay)
A used LS3 pull from a Camaro SS or C6 Corvette donor is the right choice for buyers who:
- Are budget-constrained and willing to inspect / refresh as needed
- Already have the supporting components (intake, injectors, ignition)
- Do not need the convenience of a complete package
- Are comfortable assessing donor mileage and history
Vehicle Compatibility
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. |
Inspection Workflow
This LS3 crate motor is inspected before shipping:
- Bench-tested for compression across all 8 cylinders
- Visual inspection of block, heads, intake, and accessory components
- Oil pan, intake, and FEAD components verified for completeness
- Fuel injector flow verification
- Ignition system component count and condition documented
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.
Why Buy From Part Nests
- Complete crate package: long block plus Camaro F-body oil pan plus intake plus ignition plus FEAD
- Compression tested across all 8 cylinders before shipping
- Crated freight delivery to all 50 states (sturdy crating for direct injection era LS engines)
- Detailed installation instructions and hardware included
- Reference SKU vaz82 when calling for current stock or pricing
- 15 day replacement warranty on internal defects
- Cross-link to LS swap accessories (mounts, harnesses, ECUs) for project completion
- Call (855) 634-4447 to discuss the LS3 motor price for your configuration, planned engine swap price for your specific chassis, and LS engine prices across the variant range so you can pick the right starting point for your build
Additional information
| 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 | 16 valves, OHV, V8 |
| 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, LS swap projects, Pontiac G8 GXP |
| price | $6, 195.00 |
The total engine swap price varies by chassis and scope. For a typical classic Camaro or square-body C/K truck LS3 swap, expect $8,000 to $15,000 in parts (this LS3 crate package, engine mount kit, oil pan adapter, accessory drive, headers, harness, ECU, transmission adapter where needed) plus 30 to 60 hours of skilled labor at a shop. DIY swaps land closer to the parts-only figure. Turn-key shop builds can exceed $25,000. The LS3 itself is one of the largest single line items; the supporting hardware adds up quickly.
The LS3 sits in the middle tier of LS engine prices. Bare LS1 cores are the cheapest entry point but produce significantly less power (305 to 345 hp vs the LS3's 430). The LS7 (7.0L Z06 Corvette engine) commands the highest pricing tier due to its 505 hp output and limited production volume. The LS3 delivers excellent power-per-dollar, which is why it became the dominant LS swap choice. Call us for current LS3 pricing across donor sources (Camaro SS, C6 Corvette).
Complete package: long block (block, heads, crank, rods, pistons, cams, valvetrain), Camaro F-body oil pan, intake manifold assembly with fuel injectors, complete ignition system (coil packs and spark plug wires), standard front-end accessory drive kit (alternator, power steering pump, water pump, idler pulleys, belt), detailed installation instructions, and necessary hardware. Not included: ECU and harness (cross-link options available), motor mounts (chassis-specific), transmission, flexplate or flywheel, exhaust manifolds or headers, and fluids.
Yes. The LS3 is one of the most popular swap engines for classic Chevy muscle cars. With the appropriate engine mount kit (Hooker, Hedman, BRP Hot Rods, ICT Billet, Holley all make LS-to-classic-Chevy mount kits), the LS3 drops into 1967 to 1972 Camaro, 1968 to 1972 Chevelle, 1968 to 1969 Nova, and similar GM A-body and F-body chassis. The Camaro F-body oil pan included in this package works for most installations; some chassis benefit from a low-profile aftermarket pan.
Displacement, output, and architecture. The LS3 is 6.2L producing 426 to 436 hp with rectangular port aluminum heads. The LS7 is 7.0L producing 505 hp with large-port aluminum heads, a dry sump oiling system, and titanium connecting rods. The LS7 is hand-assembled at GM's Performance Build Center while the LS3 is mass-produced. LS7 commands significantly higher pricing across the used and crate market due to its specifications and limited production volume.
Yes with appropriate supporting hardware. Common LS3 manual transmission pairings include the Tremec T-56 (factory Camaro SS pairing), TR-6060 (later Camaro SS), Tremec Magnum (aftermarket performance), and various adapter solutions for older Muncie M22 or Borg-Warner T-10 swaps. The flywheel must match the LS bell-housing pattern; you cannot reuse a small-block Chevy flywheel directly. Modern Quicktime bell-housings adapt LS engines to older Muncie transmissions.
Yes, the LS3 is one of the most popular forced-induction platforms ever built. Whipple, Magnuson, Procharger, and Vortech all make supercharger kits for the LS3 that typically deliver 550 to 750 hp. Single or twin turbo setups can produce 700 to 1,200-plus hp depending on internal preparation (forged pistons, sleeved blocks for high boost). The LS3's stock internals handle moderate boost (8 to 10 psi) well; higher boost benefits from forged rotating assembly.
Block casting number and head casting number identify the donor source. We photograph and document these on every LS3 we ship, along with donor application (Camaro SS, C6 Corvette, or crate-program). Camaro SS LS3s and C6 Corvette LS3s are functionally identical but may have minor differences in accessory drive pulley sizes. Call us for current donor breakdown across the LS3 inventory.
15 Day Replacement Warranty
Every LS3 crate motor purchased through Part Nests carries a 15 day replacement warranty starting on the delivery date.
What Is Covered
- Internal defects already present when the engine arrives
- Performance materially different from how the engine was described
- Missing components from the documented crate package
- Incorrect engine shipped due to an error on our end
What Is Not Covered
- Damage caused during installation
- Damage from running incorrect ECU calibration or fuel mapping
- Damage from forced-induction installation without proper supporting hardware
- External components unless specifically itemized
- Labor expenses of any kind
To start a warranty claim, reach us within 15 days of delivery at (240) 306-7051.
- Complete Crate Package: Oil pan, intake, injectors, ignition, FEAD included
- All 8 Cylinders Tested: Compression results documented before payment
- Camaro F-Body Oil Pan: Compatible with most swap chassis
- Installation Hardware Included: Detailed instructions provided
- LS Swap Network Support: Cross-link to mounts, harnesses, ECUs
- 15 Day Replacement Cover: Internal defects protected from delivery onward
2 reviews for Chevrolet LS3 Crate Motor Gen-IV Small-Block V8 430 HP for Sale | OEM 6.2L (376 cu in)
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At Part Nests, we specialize in high-quality used and OEM auto parts, with a wide selection of components ready to ship to customers.
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Doug R. –
Got an LS3 crate package for a 1969 Camaro restomod project. Complete package as advertised: oil pan, intake with injectors, ignition system, full FEAD. Donor source documented as a 2012 Camaro SS, compression test results clean across all eight. Foundation for the build is exactly what was specified. Plan a cam upgrade and headers in stage 2.
Eric W. –
Sourced an LS3 for a square-body 1985 C10 swap. LS3 motor price came in well within the budget target for the build. Camaro F-body oil pan worked directly with the swap mount kit (no low-profile pan needed for the C10). All eight cylinders tested uniform on compression. Cross-link options for harness and ECU saved sourcing time. Foundation for the truck is solid.