SEMA 2019: Lokar Helps Make That LS Look Like A Vintage V8

If there is one aspect of swapping an LS engine into a classic hot rod that concerns many enthusiasts, it’s the fact the engine does not look like a vintage V8. But thanks to Lokar, those days are long gone.

“Lokar has a lot of new products for LS fans, including intakes, dress up, and complete crate engines,” says Joe Rode of Lokar.

LS Swap

Almost looks like a big-block with an aftermarket serpentine drive.

The new LS Classic Series line of parts will make that 21st-century mill look as close to vintage as possible. For starters, the Lokar intake systems are designed to give an LS engine the look of the classic Chevrolets of the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. They provide a vintage look to your restomod while using modern LS3 components – such as injectors and a drive-by-wire throttle body. Lokar has kits available for LS3 and other LS engines with cathedral-port cylinder heads.

“We make intakes in various versions,” Joe says. “We have fuelie replicas with various-year appearances, a single throttle body on a manifold as well as a dual throttle body setup. We also have a Tri-Power system.”

LS swap

The faux distributor allows you to mount the coils anywhere and then route the extra-long spark plug wires to look like a traditional ignition system.

LS Classic Series serpentine components are a great complement to the intake systems. They are designed to deliver a classic look, yet retain the engine’s modern function. There are also power steering, A/C, and alternator kits available.

If you need a complete crate engine, check out the LS Classic Series “Classic in a Crate.” The program is designed to help you pick out an engine and the needed components to help make your project a success. Lokar starts with an LS crate engine from GM and fits it with Lokar components to help ensure compatibility and functionality. Lokar will assemble the pieces to your specs and deliver a ready-to-bolt-in package painted in classic Chevy Orange. If you don’t want the orange, you can even order it unpainted. Every engine receives a start-up tune and is run before shipping.

If you’re looking to dress up your current LS engine, LS Classic Series valve covers are designed to complete the look of your vintage-styled engine and intake. Big-block, small-block, and 409 designs are available.

LS swap

At a quick glance it looks like a vintage big-block.

The LS Classic Series also offers billet aluminum valley plates — which are needed when traditionalizing third- and fourth-gen LS engines. The plates feature an old-school-style chrome breather/oil-fill tube to enhance the classic look of your engine. Plates are available in machined, polished, and black anodized finish.

When you’re ready to really finish-off your vintage-looking LS-swap, then look no further than the distributor and plug wire set. The faux distributor bolts to the valley plate using the rear mounting holes and serves as a pass-through for the extra-long coil wires included in the kit.

Making that LS-swap look vintage is no longer a good reason to not upgrade to LS power in your classic. And when you do, Lokar is there to help.

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About the author

Randy Bolig

Randy Bolig has been working on cars and has been involved in the hobby ever since he bought his first car when he was only 14 years old. His passion for performance got him noticed by many locals, and he began helping them modify their vehicles.
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