When my buddy Jeff Lee at ET Enterprises found a couple of interesting engines on Facebook Marketplace, and then had to share all the info with a group chat we’re in, I cursed him. I know these engines aren’t new, and that there have been some people talking about them in the swap world, but the reality is that these things aren’t a real commonly considered option for most folks. But since I can’t stop thinking about every car and truck I want to work on, I watched his video and then things only got worse. Thanks a lot dude. Thanks. If you aren’t familiar with these 4.3 L V6 engines, pay attention.
The LV1 and LV3 are all aluminum, LT based V6 engines. Just like the original 4.3 V6 that Chevrolet built using a small block Chevrolet as the base, where they just took out two of the 8 cylinders, the new LV1 and LV3 are constructed with the same thought process. They take a 5.3 LT and pull two cylinders out of the mix. But the heads, block, injection, electronics, etc, all share the same architecture as the LT. So how much power are these things worth? Is there any good reason to build one into something that makes real power? Or have is this just the better option to an LS or LT for smaller cars and truck?
I don’t know, because now I can’t stop thinking about both options.
Watch Jeff’s video, and let us know what you think about these engines he “accidentally” ended up with.
Video Description:
Have you seen these aluminum direct injected LT based 4.3 V6’s? The LV1 & LV3 came in GM trucks and Express vans from 2014-2024. I just grabbed two of them almost on accident searching for some LS coils on Facebook Marketplace (I got 12 coils with them). After quick inspection I can probably can make one of them run with new cam and lifters, and the other one needs to be totally rebuilt. They are 3″ shorter than a LS/LT. 100lbs lighter than a fully dressed aluminum LS, has a forged crank, 1.8 LS7 rockers. Makes 285 HP/300 lbs/ft stock. Some aftermarket cams and parts coming out for them. I’ve seen a Turbo Buick swap, Jeep and Toyota Landcruiser on YouTube already. And even a twin turbo Porsche Cayman. A small sports car would really make sense. RX8 or Miata Toyota 86, Saturn Sky or Pontiac Solstice. Interesting potential. What do you think and what should I put them in? Tons of possibilities.
