The Chevrolet Performance division has recently unveiled the new L8P crate engine, a power-packed V8 that merges the robust architecture of the L8T engine with enhancements adopted from the Corvette’s LT2 camshaft.
Short Summary:
- Chevrolet introduces the L8P crate engine with a unique LT2-based camshaft.
- It offers significant power gains, achieving 523 horsepower and 543 lb-ft of torque.
- This versatile engine is suited for a variety of automotive applications, including classic car restomod projects.
At this year’s PRI Show in Indianapolis, Chevrolet unveiled the newly released L8P crate engine from Chevrolet Performance. This engine is essentially an upgraded L8T crate engine that features a distinctive camshaft contributing to a substantial power increase—from the initial 401 horsepower to an impressive 523 horsepower, accompanied by 543 lb-ft of torque.
A quick calculation reveals this represents a gain of 122 horsepower and 79 lb-ft of torque. Such enhancements indicate a shifting trend in the automotive modification scene from the ever-popular LS swaps to the more contemporary LT swaps, especially with high-performing offerings like the L8P hitting the market.
“Chevrolet Performance has optimized this car engine by combining the displacement and strength of the L8T crate as a foundation for the power while adding a unique camshaft based on the LT2 found in the C8 Corvette Stingray!” said James Bloss, Chevrolet Performance Parts Product Manager.
The L8P’s construction includes features aimed at high durability and performance. It sports a forged steel crankshaft and other fortified internal components, with added features such as oil spray cooling for the pistons, a cast iron long-skirt cylinder block fortifying six-bolt, cross-bolted main caps, and production-style exhaust manifolds. The engine package is comprehensively equipped, ranging from the throttle body to the oil pan, although controllers, harnesses, oxygen sensors, and a front-end accessory drive system need to be sourced separately.
“The Chevrolet Performance L8P really ticks all the ‘great things from a V8’ boxes,” shares Braden Carlson, an automotive enthusiast and journalist. “It’s founded on the modern LT engine, boasting a lot of displacement, power, torque, and guaranteed fun.”
The L8P engine, characterized by a 10.8:1 compression ratio, can safely run on 87-octane unleaded fuel. Its robust design includes a hardened forged steel crankshaft, forged connecting rods coupled with aluminum pistons, adding a layer of reliability and performance assurance. Moreover, Chevrolet Performance offers a 24-month/50,000-mile warranty with the L8P crate engine, providing a peace-of-mind ownership experience.
For those eyeing a complete powertrain package, the L8P is also available within the “Connect and Cruise” framework. This includes the engine control system and a 6L80-E transmission. Pro Touring Store lists further options like the TKX or T56 transmissions for manual transmission enthusiasts, although modifications are required for compatibility with the ten-speed automatic transmissions.
Notably, Chevrolet advises against using mechanical fans with the L8P. At its 5,800 RPM redline, mechanical fans’ disengagement could lead to fan clutch damage. Detailed to suit custom builds, the L8P does away with production engine cylinder deactivation while maintaining power steering pump provisions, favorable for those restoring classic hydraulic steering systems.
“Chevrolet’s engineers have committed to delivering both strength and performance. The L8P with its forged internals, performance valves, and springs is an all-star right out of the box,” said a YouTube commenter on the Chevrolet Performance video review.
Although Corvette enthusiasts typically prefer dropping in engines like the LS3, LT1, or LT4, the L8P offers a compelling alternative, especially for classic trucks and non-Corvette projects. According to Pro Touring Store, this powerhouse crate engine is priced around $8,948.80, exclusive of accessories, controllers, and transmissions. By comparison, sourcing engines from junkyards usually ranges between $3,000 to $7,000, making the L8P a viable option for those seeking a fresh performance engine straight from the crate.
The L8T engine, which served as the basis for the L8P, comes with an iron block—unique in the Gen V family of Chevrolet small blocks. The displacement of the L8T and L8P stands at an impressive 6.6 liters, with 401 horsepower output for the L8T crate engine. However, the L8P goes much further, offering 523 horsepower at 5,800 RPM and 543 lb-ft of torque at 4,600 RPM. The added power mainly owes to the LT2-derived camshaft integrated into the L8P.
The lifeblood of the L8P’s engine operation includes a billet-steel hydraulic roller camshaft, 2.130 hollow intake valves, 1.590 sodium-filled exhaust valves, and an 87-millimeter throttle body. Moreover, its direct injection system operates at a pressure of 2,175 psi, or 150 bar. With recommendations leaning towards the use of premium 91-octane fuel, enthusiasts can expect enhanced performance and longevity.
“The L8P stands out with its higher rev limit of 6,000 RPM compared to the L8T’s 5,600 RPM,” explains Carlson. “Chevrolet’s foresight in creating a robust power plant aimed at performance-oriented applications shines through with this engine.”
Aiding in the performance delivery, Chevrolet Performance advocates the utilization of the Supermatic 6L80-E transmission in tandem with the L8P crate engine, specifically part numbers 19432682 or 19432684. The primary difference lies in the stall torque converter, with choices ranging from 2400K to 2800K for the former and 3000K to 3400K for the latter. This emphasis ensures compatibility for enthusiasts aiming to boost their applications while maintaining engine integrity.
In a move reflecting the growing demand for naturally aspirated high-performance engines, Chevrolet Performance initially launched the L8T crate engine in late 2022. Built upon this robust foundation, the L8P has emerged, characterized by a slew of parts borrowed and optimized from the iconic C8 Corvette’s LT2 engine. This synthesis of durability from truck engines and the performance from sports cars results in the L8P, which promises to satiate the power quests of many enthusiasts.
Chevrolet has truly outdone itself this time, offering a compelling blend of strength, performance, and innovation with the L8P. Whether for competition, restoration, or custom automotive projects, the L8P stands out as a powerhouse designed to deliver unparalleled performance and reliability.
Sources:
https://gm-efi.com/chevrolet-performance-19435523-l8p-6-6l-crate-engine-523hp/
https://www.corvetteforum.com/articles/chevrolet-performance-l8p-crate-engine-is-perfect-for-a-restomod-dream-machine/
https://www.autoevolution.com/news/chevrolet-rolls-out-l8p-crate-engine-with-corvette-style-camshaft-236383.html
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2024/07/chevrolet-performance-launches-new-l8p-crate-engine-video/
https://www.chevrolet.com/the-block/articles/2024/march/product-spotlight-video-l8p-crate-engine
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