Throwback Thursday: Carbureted LS Engines – Ignition and Induction

Ready or not, another Thursday is here, so let’s make it a good one. That means another week is almost over, and it’s time for Throwback Thursday. This week, I thought we would take a look back to December 2012. That’s when we took a look at what MSD Ignitions has to offer for lighting the fire in your LS swap.

The article, titled Carbureted LS Engines – Ignition and Induction, explains what MSD has to offer for those upgrading their classic hot rod with a carbureted LS engine. Sure, the LS has since been replaced with the LT engine, but good running LS candidates can still be had. The article begins by asking the obvious question, Why would you want to install a carburetor on an LS engine rather than use EFI? That is a question that is frequently asked on many of the message boards and forums that support the GM LS-based engines. Contrary to what some might lead you to believe, let us assure you, there’s no increased risk in killing your motor if you run a carb over a fuel-injected system. The reasons why a carb on an LS makes sense are pretty simple. In LS swaps or street/strip/race cars a carbureted LS is simple and less expensive.

LS swap

MSD’s 6LS ignition control only requires connections for the coils, crank sensor, MAP sensor, and the camshaft sensor. This is a great unit for those using a carburetor on their LS engine.

In the original article, we discuss how MSD Ignition has come up with the perfect solution for guys that want to push the LS engine’s power curve to the max with the added benefit of no wiring headaches. We talked to MSD’s Todd Ryden about the cool ignition controller for LS engines, the 6LS. “For guys that want the advantages of GM’s aluminum small block without worrying about miles of wiring with typical EFI systems, our 6LS ignition controller allows them to mount a carburetor on the LS1/LS6 engines or the 6LS-2 on the LS2/LS7 engines. These controllers allow the user to map a timing advance curve, program the two-step rev limiter, or vacuum advance curve for your needs. There’s even a step retard in case you want to run a little nitrous in the mix.”

LS Swap

With the exception of a couple wires, all the wiring for the controller wiring harness is routed into factory-style connectors for simple and easy installation. A tach signal, ground, and hot wire are the only wires not in factory style connectors. The 6LS ignition controller box can be mounted like any other MSD controller, which is practically anywhere under the hood.

The 6LS controller is programmable by means of simple plug-in modules, an optional hand-held programmer, a laptop computer; giving the user a variety of ways to adjust RPM and timing. Using a laptop computer for adjustments may be intimidating to some, whereas simply plugging in an MSD module or using the handheld controller may be a bit easier. The versatility of this ignition controller makes it another big plus for car builders wanting to convert their LS EFI to a distributorless carb-based system.

There is a lot more interesting and what might seem surprising information in the original article, and to learn more, you really need to check it out. Carbureted LS Engines – Ignition and Induction. Check back often, as we’ll be sure to bring you more great tech you can use.

More Sources

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.
Read My Articles

Horsepower delivered to your inbox.

Build your own custom newsletter with the content you love from EngineLabs, directly to your inbox, absolutely FREE!

Free WordPress Themes
EngineLabs NEWSLETTER - SIGN UP FREE!

We will safeguard your e-mail and only send content you request.

EngineLabs

EngineLabs

We'll send you raw engine tech articles, news, features, and videos every week from EngineLabs.

EngineLabs

EngineLabs NEWSLETTER - SIGN UP FREE!

We will safeguard your e-mail and only send content you request.

EngineLabs

EngineLabs

Thank you for your subscription.

Subscribe to more FREE Online Magazines!

We think you might like...


LSX Mag
Late Model LS Vehicles
Dragzine
Drag Racing
StreetMuscle
Muscle Car & Hot Rods

EngineLabs

Thank you for your subscription.

Subscribe to more FREE Online Magazines!

We think you might like...

  • LSX Mag Late Model LS Vehicles
  • Dragzine Drag Racing
  • Street Muscle Mag Muscle Car & Hot Rods

EngineLabs

EngineLabs

Thank you for your subscription.

Thank you for your subscription.

EngineLabs

Thank you for your subscription.

Thank you for your subscription.

Loading