Chevrolet Performance has recently announced the release of the Gen V Small Block V-8 crate engine known as the L8T. Until now, this particular Gen V version could be found in 2020 and newer GM 2500HD and 3500HD trucks. It is now available for purchase through GM Performance dealers and select authorized retailers. The L8T is the latest addition to GM’s line of high-performance engines and is sure to be a hit with car enthusiasts and builders alike.

The L8T is a 6.6L engine that delivers an impressive 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque. It comes as a complete crate package under part number 19433748. Although used in trucks, this engine is designed for high-performance applications, making it a perfect choice for muscle cars, hot rods, and other customized vehicles.

The L8T has many features that are ideal for making a lot of power. Its iron block with six-bolt main caps and forged factory crankshaft is begging to be used in boosted applications.

The foundation of the L8T is a cast iron block with 6-bolt nodular main bearing caps, which is ideal for those looking to make significant power with it. In addition, it features a forged steel crankshaft, forged powder-metal connecting rods, and hypereutectic aluminum pistons, which all work together to deliver an impressive amount of power right out of the box. The engine also has a billet steel hydraulic roller camshaft with 0.500 inches of intake lift and 0.492 inches of exhaust lift.

The crankshaft that comes in the L8T is a forged piece capable of handling 2,000-plus horsepower.

The L8T engine features aluminum rectangular port direct injection cylinder heads. These heads have  59.02cc combustion chambers with 2.130-inch intake valves and 1.590-inch Inconel exhaust valves. The engine has a compression ratio of 10.8:1 and uses cast roller trunnion rocker arms with a 1.8:1 ratio. In addition, the L8T comes with a composite intake manifold and an 87 mm diameter single-bore throttle body.

As offered through Chevrolet Performance, the L8T can be ordered as a complete crate engine or as an assembled long block. According to GM, the engine is also available at a competitive price point. It comes with a warranty, ensuring buyers have peace of mind when purchasing this high-performance powertrain option. The L8T is an excellent choice for car enthusiasts and builders looking for a powerful and versatile engine for their projects and those looking to improve the performance of their classic or vintage vehicles.

Oh The Possibilities

You can check out the Scoggin Dickey Performance Parts Race Shop (SDPP) build to get an idea of what is possible with the L8T and get your gears turning. The guys from the SDPP Race Shop showed off their L8T at SEMA 2021. The engine features the stock block and makes use of the stock forged crankshaft. In addition, the guys bolted on a pair of LT4 cylinder heads, a Holley Hi-Ram intake manifold, and a pair of Precision Turbo & Engine 7685 ball-bearing turbochargers. Along with a few other goodies from the shelves of the SDPP Race Shop, the L8T “truck engine” made over 2,000 horsepower!

Scoggin Dickey Performance Parts has shown what is possible by combining the L8T with some off-the-shelf parts.

If you’re looking for a Gen V LT for your project, the L8T is a solid foundation to choose from. In stock form as a crate engine or built for monster horsepower, the L8T is making a statement as the newest kid on the block. We look forward to seeing more of the L8T in future car and truck builds.