The Guide for LS2 Supercharger Upgrade. The 2005 Chevrolet C6 Corvette, SSR, and Pontiac GTO were the first vehicles from Chevy/GM to feature the LS2 engine. The G8, Trailblazer SS, Sierra/Yukon, and other GMC/Chevy/Pontiac vehicles also received it. Depending on the vehicle, the LS2 engine’s factory output ranged from 300 to 400 horsepower and 360 to 400 lb-ft of torque. Yet, purchasing an LS2 supercharger is the best course of action if you truly want to make your LS2 come to life.
If you’re simply driving around town, the stock 300–400 horsepower is fine, but if you’re behind the wheel of a 6.0 L V8, you probably have your eyes set a little higher. A naturally aspirated LS2 can only be modified so much, and forced induction is unquestionably required if you want more above 500 horsepower.
The best options for replacing your LS2 superchargers will be covered in this article. We’ll examine the most well regarded and well-reviewed LS2 superchargers in the GM/Chevy community and compare their prices, capabilities, and quality of construction. There is a supercharger system for every LS2 equipped or switched vehicle out there.
LS2 Engine Background
The LS2 engine was debuted by General Motors for the 2005 model year. They used the LS1 and its high-performance derivative, the LS6, as the foundation for the LS2. Chevy/GM increased the LS2’s output to between 300 and 360 horsepower in other applications and 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque in the Corvette. The GTO, G8, Caprice PPV, Sierra/Yukon, Suburban, Silverado, and many other vehicles were equipped with the LS2.
GM only produced the LS2 until 2009, when it was discontinued. However, it was available as a crate engine for a number of years, and independent builders and shops continue to use it. Additionally, some of the LS2 variations had extended lifespans, such as the L77, which was produced until 2017.
Variants of the L76/77/98 LS2
The L76, L77, and L98 are three variations that GM released based on the LS2. They had an LS2-like architecture but, depending on the engine, had upgrades including variable valve timing (L76), flex-fuel compatibility (L77), and/or active fuel management (L76/77). They were manufactured up until the L77’s 2017 production year and were mostly made for the Australian market by GM’s former subsidiary Holden, however some were also utilised in the United States. The L98 was never made available in America.
Supercharger Fundamentals for the LS2 Engine
We’ve previously examined the LS2 engine in-depth, so we’ll only review some of the fundamentals now. The Gen IV small-block LS2 from GM/Chevy is based on the LS1, which was the Gen III small-predecessor. block’s It has an aluminium block and head and a pushrod OHV, two valve per cylinder design that is quite straightforward.
The bore and stroke of the LS2 are 4.000′′ and 3.622′′. As a result, the displacement is increased from the 5.7 L LS1 to 6.0 L overall. The deep-skirt case, 4.40′′ centre bore, and six-bolt main caps from the LS1 are all carried over to the LS2. Both used sequential multi-port fuel injection and steel crankshafts, with the LS2 having injectors that could flow 34 lb/hr.
The aluminium LS2 block in Corvettes weighs 15 lbs lighter than the LS1 block. The thinner-walled exhaust manifold, smaller water pump, and smaller oil pan are responsible for this weight decrease. Although the oil pan uses a full quart less oil than the LS1, this is not concerning. The pan is wingless rather than “gull-wing” styled and has totally modified baffles to maintain oil flowing through the pickup. Once more, the LS2 Corvette variant was the only one that used the updated oil pan.
The cylinder head is the most important component of the LS2 to understand when it comes to modification. The LS2 made use of the less desirable LS cathedral port head from GM. Cathedral ports do not flow as smoothly and perform worse at higher RPMs as compared to the rectangular port head used on engines like the LS7, yet they may be marginally superior for low-end torque.
Variants for LS2: L76/77/98
The three LS2 versions differ from the LS2 only slightly in each case. The addition of Active Fuel Management is the primary distinction between the LS2 and the L76 (AFM). Variable Valve Timing (VVT) for the camshaft was another addition for the L76 over the LS2. Compared to non-VVT engines, VVT allowed for higher fuel efficiency and power customization.
The L76 engines for trucks and cars differ in a number of ways. To fit the narrower bay, the automobiles all had lower-rise intake, intake, and exhaust manifolds. Trucks have a lower 9.7:1 compression ratio than L76 automobiles, which have a 10.4:1 compression ratio.
In essence, the L77 is a L76 with the ability to run ethanol mixes in addition to petrol. Although it lacks VVT, it also has AFM. We won’t talk about the L98 as it wasn’t sold domestically.
Uses for LS2 engines
The domestic uses for the Chevy/GM LS2 engine are listed below. We’ll ignore the L98 variation as it wasn’t offered domestically.
Vehicle Uses for LS2
- Chevrolet Corvette 2005–2007
- Chevrolet SSR, 2005–2006
- Pontiac GTO, 2005–2006
- Cadillac CTS-V (2006–2007)
- Chevy TrailBlazer SS, 2006–2009
- Saab 9-7X Aero, 2008–2009
Vehicle Uses for L76
- Chevrolet Avalanche, 2007–2013
- Chevy Silverado 1500, 2007–2009
- Chevrolet Suburban 1500, 2007–2009
- GMC Sierra 1500, 2007–2009
- GMC Yukon XL, 2007–2009
- Pontiac G8 GT, 2007-2009
L77 Vehicle Uses
- Chevrolet Caprice PPV 2011–2017
Fundamentals of LS2 Supercharging
Let’s speak about supercharging now that we’ve learned a little bit about the LS2 V8 engine. Beyond merely selecting a blower, there are numerous factors to take into account with a supercharged LS2. Even that is not entirely clear-cut as it might appear. We will discuss the essential components of any successful LS2 supercharger build list in the following sections.
Supporting Modifications and Tuning for the Supercharged LS2
Although LS2 superchargers are entertaining improvements, a great build involves more than just them. To get the most out of your supercharger kit, you need to think about extra bolt-on changes and tuning in addition to internal upgrades to strengthen your engine’s ability to handle the power.
Using the stock exhaust, you can supercharge a completely stock engine, but your gains will be constrained. You need at least a few additional supporting bolt-on mods for a successful setup. Improved intake, headers, throttle bodies, camshafts, and of course, correct tuning are among them. The most of these will each provide 10–20 horsepower, but they also significantly improve the effectiveness of superchargers.
If a supercharger is something you’re thinking about, long-tube headers are a must. Intakes and throttle bodies are also essentially required modifications. Keep in mind before buying, nevertheless, that they require a supercharger.
The Top 5 LS2 Modifications and an LS2 Header Upgrade Guide were previously discussed. Don’t forget to look at both of those before making your build plans.
While supercharging, you don’t need any bolt-on modifications, but you do need to make a few fueling improvements. This features bigger gasoline pumps and fuel injectors. If not, you’ll need something bigger than stock to keep the fueling consistent with the increased airflow. Most kits will include this.
Tuning for a supercharged LS2
The most significant auxiliary modification for a supercharged LS2 will be tuning. Whichever boost your kit uses, proper ECU tune will guarantee that your engine is operating properly. With forced induction, your engine is quite likely to blow up quickly if the tuning is poor. Moreover, tuning will assist you in maximising the usable power of your LS2 supercharger addition.
Related : The Guide for Volvo B20 Engine
Block Power Limitations and LS2 Internals
The LS2, which is already quite robust, is generally thought to have stronger internals than the LS1. With the factory block, the LS2 can handle more than 800 wheel horsepower without experiencing any problems. Although many stock LS2 blocks have successfully crossed the 900 wheel-horsepower threshold without incident, we think that’s a touch hazardous.
Although the power outputs of the LS2 supercharger kits we recommend below range widely, the majority of them will fall between 500 and 750 wheel horsepower. You will need aftermarket forged pistons, connecting rods, and head studs for constructions in this price range.
A high pressure oil pump (Melling is a well-liked brand), a timing chain dampener, a Trunion rocker arm upgrade kit, a 6 or 8-rib belt conversion, and stronger pushrods are additional excellent modifications. You will require a larger fuel pump and larger injectors for fueling.
The Many LS2 Supercharger Types
Let’s now discuss the many types of superchargers that can be used with an LS2 engine. There are three options: twin-screw superchargers, centrifugal superchargers, and roots superchargers. Although each of them has benefits and drawbacks, they are all excellent choices.
Centrifugal superchargers are similar to turbochargers that are driven by a belt. The compressor is driven by a belt rather than exhaust gases, although the operation is essentially the same as a turbo. The most peak power will be provided by centrifugal blowers, but at the sacrifice of low end torque. They often sit in front of the engine as opposed to on top of it.
The most typical blower offered from the factory on stock cars are roots superchargers. These are the most basic and affordable kind of supercharger. Although roots blowers provide a lot of low-end torque, they fall short of centrifugals in terms of peak RPM power. Importantly, Roots superchargers don’t actually compress any air. Instead, they function as a sizable air pump that pumps air into the engine’s cylinders during the compression stroke, where it is compressed.
Superchargers of the twin-screw variety are found in vehicles like the SRT Hellcat and Demon. Although twin-screw superchargers resemble roots-style superchargers in appearance, they compress air before delivering it to the engine. They produce less peak RPM power than centrifugals but are excellent for low end torque, similar to roots-style.
Positive displacement superchargers include twin-screw blowers and roots, whilst variable displacement superchargers include centrifugal blowers. Roots and twin-screw systems supply boost in a steady amount, but centrifugal systems operate boost in a variable amount. Because to this, centrifugals are able to achieve higher boost levels than twin-screws or roots.
The best LS2 supercharger for you is which.
Which one is best for you will depend on your desire for power and aesthetic taste. Do you desire the most authority? Choose centrifugal flow. Do you want a classic muscle vehicle look? Your best option is the roots style. Do you mind sacrificing peak power for low end torque and efficiency? One need only consider a twin-screw.
Supercharger Kits for the LS2
After discussing the requirements for supercharging your LS2, let’s move on to the suggestions. The C6 Corvette supercharger kits and all other LS-equipped vehicle superchargers are divided into separate categories. Since most LS2 owners who want to supercharge their vehicles are buyers of Corvettes, we created a special area for them. Let’s get going.
Top C6 Corvette LS2 Superchargers
These are the top three LS2 C6 Corvette superchargers:
- Superchargers A&A
- Supercharging the East Coast
- E-Force Edelbrock
1) LS2 C6 Corvette Supercharger from A&A
Price: $5,999.00+
Centrifugal blower style
The A&A Corvette supercharger kit is our top pick for a C6 Corvette LS2 supercharger. The market’s best-rated and most highly regarded C6 supercharger kit is offered by A&A. The best overall combination of quality, performance, and craftsmanship is offered by A&A.
Depending on power level, the A&A system offers three distinct centrifugal blower options. They have SI-superchargers with 1.050 cfm of flow and 775 horsepower. The Ti-superchargers have a 1,250 cfm flow rate and a 900 horsepower capacity. The V7 YSI-supercharger, which can run at 30 PSI, flows 1,600 cfm, and produces up to 1,200+ horsepower, is the most powerful choice.
The A&A kits include all of the necessary components, as well as optional fueling and oiling enhancements that are worthwhile to purchase. For anyone who lives in an emissions-restrictive state, the SI kit is also CARB compliant, which is a major advantage. The best C6 Corvette supercharger choice overall is the A&A.
2) C6 Corvette Edelbrock E Force LS2 Supercharger
Price: $9,950.87
Roots Blower Style
The Edelbrock E-Force LS2 C6 Corvette supercharger is the next item on our list. The newest E-Force superchargers from Edelbrock, a well-known brand in the performance sector, are excellent. The blower has a four-lobe design with a 160 degree twist for maximum flow, little temperature rise, and silent operation for good driving. It is an Eaton Gen VI 2300 TVS rotating assembly.
The LS2 supercharger package from Edelbrock has a maximum output of 600 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque. It is designed for entirely stock vehicles—without even fueling upgrades—and has a highly effective air-to-water intercooler and heat exchanger system. Their LS2 package comes with a companion tuner that manages the ECU and boosts horsepower. Also permitted for emissions in 50 states is the Edelbrock kit.
3) C6 Corvette LS2 Supercharger from East Coast Supercharging (ECS)
Price: $5,699.00 – $6,199.00
Centrifugal blower style
The Corvette experts at East Coast Supercharging provide our final recommendation for a C6 Corvette LS2 supercharger. Because of how well-known ECS is, many customers won’t even think about bringing their cars anyplace else while seeking for mods. They focus mostly on all contemporary Corvettes, notably the LS2-powered C6.
They provide three centrifugal blower options with a range of 500-1,300 wheel horsepower in their LS2 kit. To accommodate the added power, it also has an intercooler and an improved belt system. The head units are the Novi 1500-SI or Novi 2200R, with the former being capable of handling builds with up to 1,000 wheel horsepower and the latter being designed for extremely high builds.
The LS2 supercharger kit from ECS is a fantastic value for the money and offers excellent quality and performance. We’ve seen a lot of Corvettes with ECS engines, and their owners are all happy with them. With absolute confidence, purchase an ECS unit for your LS2.
Superchargers for the Trailblazer SS, LS2 GTO, other trucks and SUVs.
The top 4 superchargers for the LS2 GTO, Trailblazer SS, and GM/Chevy trucks and SUVs are:
- Edelbrock
- Superchargers by Magnuson
- ProCharger
- Vortech
1) LS2 ProCharger 6.0
Cost: Variable
Centrifugal blower style
For a range of automobiles, ProCharger offers a number of LS2 supercharger kits. They have a history of working on GM/Chevy builds and are a renowned manufacturer of centrifugal superchargers.
ProCharger advises using a P-1SC blower with 7-9 PSI of boost for the majority of LS2 systems. This will result in an increase in horsepower of 50–55%. Hence, if your base LS2 engine produces 350 horsepower, adding a P-1SC blower will increase your output to around 525 horsepower. Although they do have larger kits for more horsepower, those are the stats for their standard kit.
ProCharger will likely have the most possibilities for you if you have a GM/Chevy truck or are installing an LS-swap into a new car. If you have patience, you can modify their kits to fit most automobiles.
2) LS2 6.0 Magnuson Superchargers
Price: $6,995.00 – $7,895.00
Roots Blower Style
Magnuson Superchargers are our next suggested LS2 supercharged upgrade. They provide superchargers for a wide range of vehicles with LS2 engines, including the GTO, G8, Trailblazer SS, and the majority of trucks and SUVs.
Magnuson offers two blower options for their kits: the TVS1900 and the TVS2300, both of which are said to add 120 horsepower and 120 torque. These kits are likely the smallest available supercharger upgrades, and they include front mounted intercoolers and electric water pumps.
The Magnuson devices are still renowned for their performance and dependability. Eaton manufactures the superchargers, which employ their sixth generation of rotor technology. The Cadillac CTS-V, the Mustang GT500, and the 2022 Corvette ZR-1 all use the same kind of blower.
3) LS2 6.0 Vortech Superchargers
Price: $3,585.99 – $3.954.99
Centrifugal blower style
The next LS2 supercharger we suggest comes from Vortech Superchargers. A generic LS2 supercharger kit is produced by Vortech and is intended to work with the majority of LS2-powered GM and Chevy vehicles.
With their kit, Vortech uses their V-3 Si Trim supercharger. The V-3 Si is a centrifugal supercharger with a 22 PSI pressure rating, 1,150 cfm of flow, and 775 horsepower. It closely resembles the component that A&A Corvette used in their LS2 kit.
The least expensive kit on our list is the Vortech kit, which does not include an intercooler. You might need to modify this kit to fit your particular engine bay depending on your particular vehicle. Yet, it will deliver reliable performance and is unquestionably a factor in a supercharged LS2 setup.
4) LS2 6.0 Edelbrock E-Force Supercharger
Price: $6,372.78
Roots Blower Style
The Edelbrock E-Force supercharger is our last recommendation for an LS2 supercharger. Although the intake has been changed for non-Corvette vehicles, this kit is essentially the same as the one for the C6 Corvette. There are a few things to observe, however we won’t spend too much time on this supercharger again.
Instead of a single huge intercooler, this kit includes two smaller ones. It also does not have a tune. Like their C6 Corvette LS2 supercharger kit, it’s unquestionably a good choice and will deliver excellent performance.
Synopsis of the LS2 Supercharger Upgrade
Although the LS2 V8 produces respectable power out of the box, a supercharger may truly help it reach its full potential. Bolt-on modifications are undoubtedly a wonderful place to start when constructing your LS2, but they fall short of forced induction. A good, large blower added on your GM/Chevy 6.0 L engine will undoubtedly result in more smiles per gallon.
In this essay, we covered a lot of ground, from the fundamentals of LS2 supercharging to what your engine needs based on your design to some reliable reading suggestions. There is a supercharger for every LS2 powered vehicle, including the C6 Corvette, GTO, Trailblazer SS, and Sierra/Yukon.
