Just how durable is the ls2?
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
From: Charlotte NC
Just how durable is the ls2?
I really want to do a mild mod (cai, lg headers, and tune), but sounds like the warranty would be shot if something major goes wrong. So just how tough is the ls2? I've seen several posts on here talking up its durability, is this thing really that tough? Car is never taken to a track...just a weekend toy. I am generally a conservative driver, but get on it when I feel the need (what vette owner doesn't?).
Team Owner
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 27,254
Likes: 136
From: Short Hills, NJ
VERY. Like the LS1s/LS6s that came before it and the LS3 that came after it the LS2 is also a very stout motor. Able to take even a certain level of boost (turbos, supercharger) over the long term if need be.
These motors LOVE cams, heads and cam packages as well.
A huge key to longevity is proper tuning.
These motors LOVE cams, heads and cam packages as well.
A huge key to longevity is proper tuning.
Pro
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 663
Likes: 0
From: Arvada CO
I really want to do a mild mod (cai, lg headers, and tune), but sounds like the warranty would be shot if something major goes wrong. So just how tough is the ls2? I've seen several posts on here talking up its durability, is this thing really that tough? Car is never taken to a track...just a weekend toy. I am generally a conservative driver, but get on it when I feel the need (what vette owner doesn't?).
Excellent question. I purchased my 07 new, and really struggled with the decision to install headers, a FAST intake manifold and for all intents and purposes, void my warranty. Just like you, I don't track the car, but I do use it as a daily driver and go WOT whenever the opportunity presents itself. My gut feel is the engine is very reliable and properly taken care of should last a long time, longer than the warranty for sure. And that is why I went ahead and modded my car. Life is short.
I am also curious as to how many LS-2 owners have had major engine problems and had to receive warranty work??
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 18,727
Likes: 711
From: Bergen County, NJ
I have headers, tune, ported intake manifold, and CAI. I have no fear of my engine blowing. These engines are bullitt proof. I hope
Pro
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 585
Likes: 0
From: Ocean County NJ
I really want to do a mild mod (cai, lg headers, and tune), but sounds like the warranty would be shot if something major goes wrong. So just how tough is the ls2? I've seen several posts on here talking up its durability, is this thing really that tough? Car is never taken to a track...just a weekend toy. I am generally a conservative driver, but get on it when I feel the need (what vette owner doesn't?).
Just remember: 1. the dealership needs to prove that the mod caused the failure (federal law) and if they can't, the failure is covered. 2. the mods mentioned are mild - if you have a failure, you could always remove the items prior to going back to the dealership.
I did similar mods, my dealer ( I know the owner) and his service writer are both cool with it. Have fun
Supporting Tuner
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,227
Likes: 28
From: Dearborn Heights MI
The LS-Seires engines are very durable and I think you would have a hard time breaking one with bolt-on's. We built a 2007 Corvette Convertible for a customer last summer. He said he only bought the car to street race it. It's a stock bottom end, with our CNC heads, Stage 1 camshaft, Kook's Headers and X-Pipe w/ Cats, stock catback, and D1 ProCharger making 8-9 lbs. It made 651 RWHP through the stock A6 Automatic trans and gets "driven like it's stolen" every time it's driven. We modded it when it had 120 or so miles on it and it now has 13,000 with no issues. He wants to change the pulley to make more power, so I'm sure it's only a matter of time for it to break even with a conservative tune, but he knows this and is willing to build a stroker motor when it breaks.
Rick LeBlanc
Livernois Motorsports
Rick LeBlanc
Livernois Motorsports
Pro
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 663
Likes: 0
From: Arvada CO
The LS-Seires engines are very durable and I think you would have a hard time breaking one with bolt-on's. We built a 2007 Corvette Convertible for a customer last summer. He said he only bought the car to street race it. It's a stock bottom end, with our CNC heads, Stage 1 camshaft, Kook's Headers and X-Pipe w/ Cats, stock catback, and D1 ProCharger making 8-9 lbs. It made 651 RWHP through the stock A6 Automatic trans and gets "driven like it's stolen" every time it's driven. We modded it when it had 120 or so miles on it and it now has 13,000 with no issues. He wants to change the pulley to make more power, so I'm sure it's only a matter of time for it to break even with a conservative tune, but he knows this and is willing to build a stroker motor when it breaks.
Rick LeBlanc
Livernois Motorsports
Rick LeBlanc
Livernois Motorsports
That is impressive! It certainly gives me peace of mind that for my LS-2 with only bolt-ons, it should last a very long time, assuming I take care of it. And I do take care of it. I know I made the right choice modding my car. When I go WOT, it is music to my ears!
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