2010 GM Truck/SUV 5.3L LC9 Aluminum Block Vortec V8 Engine

Looking for a premium, lightweight replacement or swap engine for your GM truck or SUV? This Gen IV 5.3L LC9 Vortec V8 engine is a highly sought-after aluminum-block powerhouse, offering the perfect blend of durability, fuel efficiency, and performance.

Unlike the heavier iron-block variants, the LC9 features an all-aluminum construction that trims roughly 80–100 lbs off the front end of your vehicle. This makes it an absolute favorite not only for factory OEM replacements but also for lightweight LS swap projects in classic cars, hot rods, and custom off-road builds across both the American and Australian markets.

Exact Vehicle Fitment & Interchange Guide

To guarantee a seamless drop-in installation, verify that your vehicle matches the interchange profiles below. This engine is a direct replacement for models utilizing the 8th digit of the VIN as a “3” or “7” (LC9 option code):

• 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup — 5.3L, VIN 3 (8th digit, opt LC9)

• 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Pickup — 5.3L, VIN 3 (8th digit, opt LC9)

• 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 — 5.3L, VIN 3 (8th digit, opt LC9)

• 2012–2013 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 — 5.3L, VIN 7 (8th digit, opt LC9)

Technical Specifications

• Engine Family: Gen IV LS-Based Small Block

• Displacement: 5.3 Liters / 325 c.i.d.

• Block Material: High-Strength Aluminum (casting #12569513 or similar)

• Cylinder Heads: High-Flow Aluminum Cathedral Port (Casting #243 or #799) – shares the exact same high-performance port shape and combustion chamber design as the legendary LS6

• Fuel Capability: Flex-Fuel (E85 compatible) or standard unleaded gasoline

• Factory Ratings: ~315–320 Horsepower / 335 lb-ft of Torque

• Reluctor Wheel: 58X

• Management Features: Equipped with Active Fuel Management (AFM / Displacement on Demand) and Variable Valve Timing (VVT) for optimized highway efficiency

Why Choose the LC9 Platform?

• The Aluminum Advantage: The all-aluminum block and head combination drastically improves power-to-weight ratios, making it an exceptional platform for autocross, lightweight cruisers, or 4×4 trail rigs where front-end weight distribution matters.

• LS6-Derived Cylinder Heads: Factory equipped with #243 or #799 castings, this engine naturally flows exceptionally well right out of the box, offering massive performance gains if you choose to upgrade to a performance camshaft later.

• Robust Gen IV Internals: Built with stronger floating-pin connecting rods and a beefier block casting design compared to older Gen III 5.3L engines (like the LM7), giving you better peace of mind under load.

Condition Report & Shipping Logistics

This engine has been meticulously salvaged, cleaned, and undergo rigorous quality checks—including compression testing and oil pressure inspection—to guarantee stellar operational health.

Package Includes: Long block assembly (oil pan to valve covers), intake manifold, fuel rail, injectors, throttle body, and essential front engine accessory brackets.

We provide fast, secure, and fully insured palletized freight across the United States, as well as direct containerized ocean freight to major ports throughout Australia. Contact us today with your zip or postal code for a precise shipping quote!