I finally looked up what a junkyard LS swap actually costs and got a shock

Everyone always says an LS swap is the cheapest way to go fast, but I added up the parts list from a 2023 forum thread and it was over $4,200 just for a running engine and the basic swap kit, not counting tools or surprises. That is way more than what I spent rebuilding my old 4.3 Vortec for $800. Did anyone else actually track their total swap cost or am I the only one who keeps receipts?

2 comments

2 Comments

craig.parker1mo ago

Hang on, I think you're looking at this the wrong way... a budget Vortec rebuild is apples to oranges next to an LS swap. A junkyard 5.3 with a good trans can be had for $1200 if you hunt around, and the swap kits are like $800 for a basic setup. The real cost is the nickle and dime stuff like a fuel system and exhaust, but $4,200 sounds like you priced a brand new crate motor with all the fancy dress-up parts. Most guys running budget swaps are under $2500 total if you reuse your old radiator and do the wiring yourself.

jesse_barnes371mo ago

I heard a buddy say the wiring is actually the easy part if you use a basic stand alone harness.