The 6.0 Vortec is GM’s 6.0-liter (364 cubic inch) truck V8 from the LS engine family, built with a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It powered heavy-duty Silverado and Sierra pickups, vans and large SUVs, and its iron block and strong bottom end have made it a favorite for swaps and boosted builds. The most familiar early versions are the LQ4 and the higher-compression LQ9.
6.0 Vortec specs
| Spec | 6.0 Vortec (LQ4 / LQ9) |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6.0 L (364 cu in) |
| Bore x stroke | 4.000 x 3.622 in |
| Block / heads | Cast iron / aluminum |
| Generation | Gen III (later Gen IV versions followed) |
| Firing order | 1-8-7-2-6-5-4-3 |
| Horsepower | Roughly 300 to 345 hp depending on version, year and vehicle |
GM rated its truck engines differently by year and application, so check the rating for your vehicle in its documentation; see also our LS engine specs chart.
LQ4 vs LQ9
Both are 6.0-liter iron-block engines. The LQ9 is the high-output version, with flat-top pistons for higher compression, and was used in higher-trim applications, while the LQ4 uses dished pistons and lower compression. The lower-compression LQ4 is popular for turbocharged builds for that reason. See LS vs Vortec for how the truck engines relate to the car LS engines.
6.0 Vortec oil capacity
Most 6.0 Vortec trucks take about 6 quarts with a filter change, but capacity varies by oil pan and application, so confirm it in your owner’s manual and check the dipstick after filling.
Common 6.0 Vortec problems
- Lifter tick and worn lifters on high-mileage engines; see lifter tick.
- Knock sensor harness corrosion under the intake, setting P0327 and P0332; see knock sensor.
- Oil pressure sensor faults giving false readings; see oil pressure sensor.
- Intake and vacuum leaks causing lean codes; see vacuum leak.
- Oil consumption and worn rings on hard-worked high-mileage engines; see piston rings.
6.0 Vortec in swaps
The 6.0 shares the LS family’s bellhousing pattern and many external parts, which makes it a common choice for LS swaps where a little more displacement and an iron block are wanted. Expect it to weigh more than the aluminum LS engines.
6.0 Vortec engine for sale
Our Chevy 6.0L Vortec 6000 V8 engine (2001-2007) is $3,799.00. Confirm your engine with the eighth digit of the VIN or the RPO label before ordering, and compare it with our 5.3 Vortec engines and LS engines; engine replacement cost explains the other costs to budget for.
More guides: 5.3 vs 6.0 · 6.0 Vortec problems · 5.3 aluminum vs iron block · how long a 6.0 Vortec lasts.
Shipping is a flat $80.00 per order to US addresses, with 15-day free returns. Questions? Ask a parts specialist.