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Chevrolet Debuts ZZ6 EFI Small Block V8 Crate Engine

While most of the crate engine noise surrounding Chevrolet has (naturally) revolved around the 6.2-liter LT5 supercharged V8, Chevy has debuted a second crate engine ahead of the 2018 SEMA show. The new 350 cubic inch ZZ6 EFI small-block V8 engine ditches the four-barrel carburetor in favor of a modern electronic fuel injection system (standard ZZ6 engine pictured).

Chevrolet Performance said the state-of-the-art throttle body features a fully sequential port-electronic fule injection system. Fuel is delivered into the intake airflow directly at the port with an injector for each of the eight cylinders. This allows for better fuel atomization. The system is also ready to run out of the box with a pre-loaded calibration.

Chevrolet ZZ6 Small Block V8 Crate Engine

The modern technology results in a power and torque bump for over the standard ZZ6 crate engine. While the regulation engine will make 405 horsepower and an identical amount of torque, the ZZ6 EFI engine makes 418 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. For plenty of gusto, the torque curve is nearly flat from 3,000 rpm to 6,000 rpm, and the entire package is about 1 inch lower to fit in compact spaces.

The ZZ6 crate engine itself is basically Chevy’s iconic 350 small-block V8 with modern twists. Fast Burner heads, a high-RPM valvetrain and beehive-style valve springs inspired by the LS family of engines give the engine a unique character.  The ZZ6 also uses an aggressive hydraulic roller camshaft with .474/.510-inch lift and 208/221-degrees duration. It supports the high-RPM airflow capability but maintains low-speed drivability.

Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but for those looking for a trust small-block V8 with naturally aspirated power, ZZ6 is a pretty darn good option.

Former GM Authority staff writer.

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Comments

  1. COOL!

    Reply
  2. Great news, I have one word for you, “proofread”.

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    1. Your sentence is ironic.

      Reply
  3. Nice looking engine.

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  4. Nice. Reminds me of the GM Hot Cammed l98 I had my ’91 ‘vette with a more conventional intake manifold. Pretty much the ultimate evolution of gen 1 small block reliability and smooth power.

    Reply
  5. Only 12 hp less than an LS3. Why didn’t they name it ZZ7?

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  6. when will this become available. Says it comes with a fuel pump. Is this fuel pump Generation 1 or does it require a return line back to the tank?

    Reply
  7. bought 2 ZZ6 turn key EFI to install in 1972 and 1979 corvette, find front pulley is to large, hits frame, called Elway Chevrolet where I bought, said have to cut frame and weld, customer does not want that. I am very upset that was told this was a turn key and would fit, they called someone and said there is no smaller crank pulley. can someone call me to solve this problem. 719 596 2345 Corvette Center, fountain, co. Ric Noring.

    Reply
  8. Put one in my 84 CJ7. Easy install. Upon initial startup, numerous rockers on driver side hitting inside of valve cover. Warranty group says “known issue” and to grind down inside of valve cover to clearance. Also found a bad fuel injector, can’t locate part number to order replacement.

    Reply
    1. There should’ve been some paperwork that came with The crate engine. It should have the installation instructions, and all the part numbers, For any replacement parts that are needed.

      Reply

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