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LS3 Heads & Its Applications

The LS3 (6.2L, 376ci) hit the market in 2008 in the new C6 Corvette and ratcheted up the performance with the power output jumping to 430 horsepower! More strength was added to the LS3 block (which helped handle the power from the supercharged LS9 for the ZR1 Vette). The Pontiac G8 GXP also received the LS3 (415 hp). In 2010, the relaunched Camaro SS got the LS3 (426 hp) in the manual-equipped cars and an L99 (400 hp) version with Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation). The increased displacement was due to a bump in bore size to 4.065 inches. Add a 4.000-inch stroke and end up with a 415ci mill.

As we all know, an ls engine is nothing without a good set of ls heads. And when it comes to ls heads, the LS3 heads are some of the best you can get.
But what exactly are LS3 heads? And what are their applications?
What Are LS3 Heads?
In a nutshell, LS3 heads are simply aftermarket cylinder heads that have been designed for ls engines. Typically, LS3 heads will offer improved airflow over stock ls heads, which can lead to increased power output. In addition, LS3 heads often feature larger valves and/or ported designs, which further improve airflow and power.
So if you’re looking to get the most out of your ls engine, a set of LS3 heads is worth considering.
LS3 Heads Specifications
Material Make

LS3 heads are often made from high-quality materials such as aluminum or titanium. This further improves airflow and helps to reduce weight compared to stock ls heads (which are typically made from cast iron).
Reducing weight can be beneficial for several reasons, including improved performance and fuel efficiency.
As far as specific materials go, many LS3 heads are made from A356-T6 aluminum. This is a high-strength aluminum alloy that’s commonly used in the aerospace industry.
It’s also worth noting that some LS3 heads may feature castings or other components made from other materials, such as steel.
Valve Sizes
As you might expect, the valves on LS3 heads are usually larger than the valves on stock ls heads. This is because larger valves can flow more air, which can lead to increased power output. Common valve sizes for LS3 heads include 2.165 inches (intake) and 1.590 inches (exhaust).
However, it’s not uncommon for LS3 heads to feature even larger valves. For example, some aftermarket LS3 heads may have 2.200-inch intake valves and 1.625-inch exhaust valves.
Porting
In addition to larger valves, many LS3 heads also feature ported designs. Porting refers to the process of enlarging and shaping the intake and exhaust ports. This can further improve airflow, which can lead to even more power.
It’s also worth noting that some LS3 heads may feature other types of upgrades or modifications, such as CNC-machined combustion chambers. These sorts of modifications can further improve airflow and power output.
Applications
LS3 heads are most commonly used in performance applications where increased airflow and power are desired. LS3 heads are often used in racing engines where every last bit of power is needed.
Additionally, LS3 heads can also be a good choice for street engines that will see occasional track use. This is because LS3 heads can help to make your engine more powerful and responsive, without sacrificing reliability.
So if you’re looking for a set of ls heads that can offer improved performance, LS3 heads are worth considering.
LS Heads FAQs
How good are LS3 heads?
Given that a stock LS3 head's flow rate is more than 315 cfm and can support over 650 horsepower on the proper application, increasing performance necessitates not only a decent set of aftermarket heads, but also an engine with plenty of power. The more air that goes through the engine, the more horsepower it generates.
Are LS3 heads interchangeable?
Rectangular intake ports are found on the LS7, L92, and LS3 heads. Interchangeability between blocks is available for all LS cylinder heads except the LS7 heads. Because of their wider valve layout, the LS7 cylinder heads cannot be used on other LS blocks.
Are LS3 heads good for boost?
Unlike the naturally aspirated engine, however, the LS3 heads produced more power under boost. The extra power, too, created greater backpressure. Boost pressure peaked at 7.6 psi at 7,000 rpm and fell to 6.4 psi at 7,500 rpm.
How much power can LS3 heads make?
The LS3 engine block may be boosted to 850 to 1,000 horsepower. Both engines feature rectangular port cylinder heads with a common 4.065-inch bore diameter and internally threaded oil passages for Active Fuel Management (AFM).
Are LS2 and LS3 heads the same?
But the most obvious difference between the two is the displacement. The LS2 has 6.0L of displacement and is technically the first Gen IV Chevrolet engine. The LS3, on the other hand, has 6.2L of displacement and is also a Gen IV Chevrolet engine. To no one's surprise, the LS3 heads are better than the LS2 heads.
Can a stock LS3 handle a supercharger?
The LS3 draws from the experience of earlier models in the LS family of engines. Even with a power adder, the factory LS3 bottom end can handle a significant amount of power.
How do I get more power out of my LS3?
Upgrading the LS3 Intake Manifold and Throttle Body The rectangular ports work well, although an aftermarket intake can still produce more power. Shorter runner intake manifolds and single-plane intakes make more top-end horsepower but may lose similar amounts of low-end torque.
Conclusion
If you are looking for LS3 heads, Allied Motor Parts is the best place to get them. Call us today.

Source: https://www.alliedmotorparts.com/blogs/news/ls3-heads-its-applications

Related Products of LS3 Cylinder Heads:
Chevrolet Cylinder Head LS3 Performance 250cc 75cc - New Assembled Aluminum
NEW CNC Ported LS3 Cyl Heads .650 Springs 2.16/1.59 Valves PAIR

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