Is this an LS3 or an L92 truck motor?

[Erik Beckett]

I am new to LS3 engines and want to purchase one. This is the one I am looking at and I am told its an LS3. Can you tell by the pics if it is an LS3 or not? My buddy says it has an L92 truck oil pan on it, which would be a different motor, pistons, etc then and LS3 from a Camaro.

Thoughts?

Erik

[1989GTA]

Well the front cover is the non VVT style so that leaves out the L92 unless it has been changed out. The block should have 6.2L cast in the front. My L92 oil pan did not have that plate on the bottom of it.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

truck

[Samckitt]

Coils look like truck coils, and agree, doesn't have the VVT front cover so isn't an L92.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

"its a truck motor..."
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/08/zwlq3d-1.jpg

[williecutlass]

Should the L92 be a iron or alu. block?

[srh3trinity]

L92 is aluminum. The only difference after you remove the VVT is the valves on the heads from what I know. I think the compression ratio and pistons are the same but a quick google search should help with that.

[SShep71]

What number is on teh corner of the heads? 823, or 821?

[Erik Beckett]

I am waiting on the seller to get back to me with the casting numbers. He was suppose to last night but never did. He mentioned he wanted the lower profile truck pan for clearance issues. If its an L92 but has LS3 heads, is that an issue. I guess I should ask, if this is an L92 is it worth building up or should I just start with an LS3 if only the heads are the big difference.

Thanks, Erik

[bmiller]

The pictures look familiar, is this engine for sale in Michigan?

[SShep71]

Erik, if the guy is asking a decent price L92 or LS3, its worth it. As mentioned before the only big differences between the two are valves, heads (flow numbers are just a little different), pistons, and I THINK rods. The 823 L92 heads are great heads from the factory, the weight of the valve springs on the LS3 are lighter to keep valve train weight/harmonics down. IF you put aftermarket springs on an 823 head you are close to an 821 head, I would suggest new springs on any engine anyway so no loss there!. The CR on an LS3 is higher but you can do several things to bring the SCR up mill the heads, thinner head gaskets, new pistons, etc. Its all in what you want out of the engine and what you are willing to put into the engine. Dont lose out on a good sale if its not an LS3, a L92 properly done makes more power than an LS3. Ohh just an FYI, if you have to room to run a truck intake.. buy one cheap and run it! The truck intake with a little port work will flow as much if not more than a FAST 102 for a quarter of the price. Again, its what are you comfortable doing and spending.