Chevrolet Performance launched the naturally aspirated 6.6L V8 L8T crate engine back in December, offering up the same capability provided by GM’s heavy-duty pickup trucks, but with availability to those customers looking to build their own project vehicle. Now, we’re getting a few insights into what makes the L8T what it is, courtesy of the following brief feature video.
Hosted by Design Release Engineer, Chevrolet Performance, Blake Nye, the video launches into an overview of the technical aspects of the naturally aspirated 6.6L V8 L8T crate engine. The L8T was originally available in the 2020 Chevy Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD, and as such, was built to handle the demands expected of those two nameplates.
Based on the Gen V LT engine platform, the atmospheric L8T was designed to make loads of twist in heavier applications, such as pickup trucks and SUVs. The block is made from iron, with displacement rated at 400 cubic inches, or about 6.6 liters. The cylinder bore is 4.060 inches (103.25 mm), while the stroke is 3.860 inches (98 mm). Interestingly the L8T offers the largest displacement available in the Chevrolet LT engine family.
“The L8T produces more torque at the bottom end to mimic older engines, as opposed to the high-revving LT1 and LT4 options,” Nye states. Peak output is rated at 401 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 464 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm on 87-octane pump gasoline, while the maximum recommended engine speed is set at 5,600 rpm. The compression ratio is set at 10.8:1.
Fueling is courtesy of high-pressure direct injection (2,175 psi / 150 bar). The L8T also does not include active fuel management. The engine does, however, incorporate variable valve timing with two overhead valves per cylinder. The heads are made from aluminum, and are based on the production engine. The intake manifold also incorporates long runners for extra low-end twist.
If you’re thinking about grabbing the L8T for your project, or just want a quick overview of what it has to offer, this video could be just what you’re looking for:
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Comments
Only thing is as a crate engine, it’s better suited for boats and square body builds more than Camaros.
Factory can put it in a lowered rcsb and call it an SS396.
My thoughts exactly! The 2.7 is direct injection, so the fuel system is done, and I can get a driveshaft made before the end of business, today. lol
Considering the excessive price of Diesel, but ignoring the comparative longevity of Diesel vs. Gas engines, this IS a good alternative.
Made in Mexico label prominent…are they really that oblivious?
Ok if they,re offering 6.6l crate engines WHY wont they issue a BUILD order for my Express van with the 6.6l option…They say I can only get a 4.3 V-6….
So when they gonna start building this? Cause many people are waiting for this in their van order that went in last year and the year before? Hey GM why don’t you quit with the lies post luke this and start producing what people pay for and need!
The engineers have hinted that the block is almost as strong as the LSX, which can handle over 2,500 hp. The crankshaft is fully counter-weighted for high rpm durability. Some people still believe it’s just a “truck” engine…
I thought this engine was hard to get? There is some people complaining the engine is N/A on vans even thought it is an option.
Some people are saying this cause depending on dealership you are going too they are saying they discontinued them cause they want them to get the v6 sooner. I been to many of the dealerships and so far only one or 2 said no more v8. Rest said they don’t know what they are talking about,lol. One even told me they didn’t make them and then went to the manager and came back to say they did. It’s freaking hilarious with bs.
Why does the smaller 6.2 LT2 in the Corvette make alot more power than the new 6.6 L8T? 495 hp vs 401 and 470 tq vs 464 tq? I know the L8T makes the peak tq about 1150 rpm sooner than the LT2, but it seems like it should be making alot more hp & tq?
The L8T does not req premium gas, it runs on 87.
Cam it like you want it, and HANG ON!!