Specification
The 4.8 LS Engine uses sequential electronic fuel injection, coil-near-plug ignition, and later models feature drive-by-wire throttle control for improved efficiency and throttle response. Known for its exceptional reliability, long service life, and ability to handle boost or upgrades, the 4.8 LS remains a popular choice for engine swaps, budget performance builds, and dependable workhorse applications. Many enthusiasts also consider the 5.3 LS engine as a direct upgrade offering more displacement and power while maintaining similar reliability and affordability.
Engine Variants
LR4 (Gen III 4.8 LS Engine)
The LR4 is the original 4.8 LS V8 introduced in 1999, featuring a robust cast-iron block with aluminum cylinder heads and a traditional pushrod valvetrain. It uses a 3.78-inch bore and 3.268-inch stroke, resulting in a 4,806 cc displacement. Designed without Variable Valve Timing (VVT) or Active Fuel Management (AFM), the LR4 emphasizes mechanical simplicity and durability. Factory output typically ranges from 255 to 285 horsepower and around 285 lb-ft of torque, depending on application and year. Commonly found in Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Tahoe, and Yukon light-duty trucks, the LR4 is highly regarded for engine swaps due to its reliability, affordability, and strong aftermarket support.
LY2 (Gen III / Early Gen IV 4.8 LS Engine)
The LY2 is an updated 4.8 LS engine that appeared during the transition from Gen III to early Gen IV platforms, retaining the same iron block architecture and 3.78-inch bore and 3.268-inch stroke. It continued to use a pushrod OHV layout and aluminum heads, but benefited from refinements in engine management, emissions compliance, and overall efficiency. Producing approximately 260 to 295 horsepower with similar torque figures to the LR4, the LY2 remained focused on truck and commercial applications. While still free of AFM, some versions introduced improved electronics, making it a reliable middle-ground option that balances modern control systems with classic LS simplicity.
L20 (Gen IV 4.8 LS Engine)
The L20 represents the most advanced evolution of the 4.8 LS platform, produced from 2010 to 2014 and built on the Gen IV architecture. It retains the durable iron block and identical bore and stroke dimensions but adds modern features such as Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and FlexFuel (E85) capability for improved efficiency and emissions performance. Factory output increased slightly, delivering around 285 to 302 horsepower and approximately 295 lb-ft of torque.
Found in Chevrolet and GMC pickups and full-size vans, the L20 offers better drivability and fuel adaptability, though its added complexity makes it slightly less popular for simple swaps compared to earlier non-VVT variants. Like other LS family members, it shares the proven reliability found in the 6.0 LS engine lineup, making it an excellent choice for both stock replacements and performance applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicles came with the 4.8 LS engine?
The 4.8 LS engine (LR4, LY2, L20) was primarily installed in Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, Chevrolet Avalanche, and various GM full-size vans including the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana from 1999 to 2014.
How much horsepower does a 4.8 LS engine make?
The 4.8 LS engine produces between 270 to 295 horsepower and 285 to 305 lb-ft of torque depending on the variant and production year. The LR4 (Gen III) typically makes 255-285 HP, the LY2 produces 260-295 HP, and the L20 (Gen IV) delivers 285-302 HP.
Is the 4.8 LS engine good for engine swaps?
Yes, the 4.8 LS engine is excellent for engine swaps due to its compact size, lightweight aluminum heads, strong cast-iron block, affordability, and massive aftermarket support.
What is the difference between LR4, LY2, and L20 4.8 LS engines?
The LR4 is the original Gen III 4.8 LS (1999-2007) with traditional fuel injection and no VVT, emphasizing simplicity and reliability. The LY2 is a transitional Gen III/early Gen IV variant (2007-2009) with improved electronics and emissions controls but still no VVT or AFM.
How reliable is the 4.8 LS engine and what is the maintenance schedule?
The 4.8 LS engine is highly reliable and can easily exceed 200,000-300,000 miles with proper maintenance. Regular oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles using quality synthetic oil are essential.
GM 4.8 LS Engine