Best Places to Buy LS Engines

Key Points

• Best Platforms: eBay Motors, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are great for finding LS engines. Trusted retailers like Summit Racing and JEGS offer plenty of options, while specialty shops can provide custom-built engines.
• Things to Keep in Mind: Decide between new or used engines, check engine details, and stick to your budget. I’ve made mistakes before, and I’m here to help you avoid them.
• Success Stories: I’ve had some wins (and a few close calls) with LS engines. Whether buying online or at a local salvage yard, finding the perfect engine is always rewarding.

Introduction

This guide is here to help you find the best LS engine for your project. I’ve spent plenty of time working on cars, so I know the importance of picking the right engine. LS engines are reliable, powerful, and fit into almost any project. Whether you’re upgrading your car, building a custom project, or replacing an old engine, this guide has all the info you need.

Why Choose an LS Engine?

Performance & Reliability LS engines are tough and built to last. Whether you need an engine for a track car or a daily driver, LS engines deliver power and reliability. They can handle almost anything, from highway driving to track days.

Popular Uses LS engines are used in everything from classic muscle cars to modern trucks. I’ve used them in my own builds and can say they offer great performance and adaptability. If you’re thinking about an engine swap, an LS engine should be at the top of your list.

Things to Think About When Buying an LS Engine

New vs. Used Engines Choosing between a new or used engine is important. New engines come with a warranty and no hidden problems, but they are expensive. Used engines can be cheaper, but you need to check them carefully. I’ve used both, and while new engines are great for peace of mind, used ones can save you money if you know what to look for.

Engine Specifications Think about your goals: Are you building a fast car or a weekend cruiser? For a high-performance build, you might want a bigger engine, like the LS3, which offers more power. Getting the specs right can save you headaches later on.

Budget Set a budget and stick to it, but keep some extra funds for things like engine mounts, wiring, and cooling systems. I’ve learned that small things add up, so it’s important to plan for the full cost.

Best Online Places to Buy LS Engines

eBay Motors eBay Motors is a great place to find LS engines. You’ll need patience to find good deals, but it’s worth it. Look for trusted sellers, and watch out for shipping costs.

Craigslist Craigslist is where I found one of my best deals—a low-mileage LS3. You can often find engines close to home, which is great for checking them out in person. Just be careful and meet in safe places.

Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace is good for connecting with local sellers. I’ve found good deals through automotive groups, where people often post engines for sale. Always inspect the engine before buying.

Best Retailers for LS Engines

Summit Racing Summit Racing is reliable and has a wide range of LS engines. I’ve bought from them several times and always had a good experience. They also offer great customer service.

JEGS JEGS is another trusted name. They offer fast shipping and solid customer support. Whether you need a complete engine or parts, they’ve got you covered.

GM Performance Parts For the genuine product, GM Performance Parts sells LS engines directly from the manufacturer. This guarantees you’ll get an engine that meets factory specs, plus a warranty.

Specialty Shops for Custom Builds

Texas Speed & Performance Texas Speed & Performance specializes in custom LS builds. They’re known for high-performance engines, and their work is top-notch. If you need a custom engine, they’re a great option.

LSXceleration LSXceleration offers performance-tested LS engines and parts. If you’re building a high-powered car, their products are worth checking out.

Blueprint Engines Blueprint Engines builds reliable LS engines that are dyno-tested and ready for installation. If you want extra performance without going overboard, they’re a great choice.

Salvage Yards and Auctions

Copart Copart is a great platform for finding LS engines at good prices, but you need to do your research. Auctions can be a gamble, but if you’re careful, you can score a deal.

Local Salvage Yards Local salvage yards can be hit or miss, but when you find an engine, it’s worth it. I once found a great LS1 that just needed a little work. If you’re up for it, pulling the engine yourself can save money.

Comparing Prices and Getting the Best Deal

Online Price Comparison Use websites like PriceGrabber or Google Shopping to compare prices from different sellers. But remember, sometimes the lowest price isn’t the best deal. Always consider shipping costs, warranties, and seller reliability.

Negotiation Tips If you’re buying from a private seller or salvage yard, don’t be afraid to negotiate. I’ve had good luck negotiating prices, especially during sales or around holidays.

Warranty and Return Policies Check the warranty and return policy before buying, especially for used engines. I’ve made the mistake of not checking, and it ended up costing me. Always know what you’re getting into.

Case Studies: Successful LS Engine Purchases

Case 1: Finding a Deal on eBay Motors I once found an LS3 engine on eBay Motors that was a perfect fit for my custom car. The seller was trusted, the engine had low miles, and it was exactly what I was looking for. It’s been running smoothly ever since.

Case 2: Buying from a Local Salvage Yard I found an LS engine at a local salvage yard that was a great deal. It was a bit of work to pull out, but after fixing a few things, it ran perfectly.

Case 3: Custom Build from Texas Speed & Performance For a high-performance project, I went with Texas Speed & Performance for a custom LS build. They delivered exactly what I wanted, and the engine’s performance has been amazing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an LS Engine

Ignoring Engine History Always check the engine’s history before buying. Not checking could lead to problems down the road. Ask for service records and any other available info.

Not Considering Shipping Costs Shipping costs can add up when buying online. Always factor in these costs to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Not Checking Compatibility Make sure the LS engine will fit your vehicle. I’ve had projects where the engine fit perfectly and others where it needed extra work. Always double-check that everything will line up.

Conclusion

Buying an LS engine can be tricky, but with careful planning, it’s worth it. Whether you choose a new or used engine, or buy online or in person, take your time to find the right fit. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision. Happy engine hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best LS engine for a swap? The LS3 is a great choice for swaps. It’s powerful, available, and has lots of aftermarket support. It’s a solid option for most projects.

How much should I expect to pay for a used LS engine? Used LS engines usually range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition and model. With patience and research, you can find a good deal in this range.

Are warranties available when buying a used LS engine? Some sellers offer warranties on used LS engines, but private sales and salvage yard engines usually don’t come with warranties. Always do your research before buying.

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