5.3L L83 EcoTec3 V8 Engine

GM 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 Engine for Sale, OEM Silverado 5.3 V8 Assembly, Low Mileage

Key Features

• Low mileage OEM GM 5.3L EcoTec3 V8, under 80,000 miles verified
• Complete engine assembly with intake manifold and fuel injectors
• Compression tested on every cylinder before shipping
• Direct injection, variable valve timing, and AFM equipped
• Aluminum block construction, Gen V LS-based platform
• 6-month warranty against mechanical defects
• Ships from Cleveland, Ohio to all 50 states on secured freight pallet
• Most orders processed and shipped within 1 to 3 business days

The L83 EcoTec3 Engine at McClain Auto Part

The GM 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 is one of the most widely used truck V8 engines in the country. It powered the Silverado 1500, Sierra 1500, Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, and Escalade across multiple model years and continues to be one of the highest-demand replacement engines we handle at our Cleveland, Ohio warehouse. When one of these engines needs replacing, owners want the same proven platform back under the hood.

At McClain Auto Part we have been sourcing and selling used GM engines since 2009. The L83 EcoTec3 is a newer generation platform compared to the older Vortec 5.3 engines and the buyers who search for it specifically want the direct injection, variable valve timing, and fuel economy characteristics that the EcoTec3 generation introduced. We source verified low mileage units, inspect every one at our Cleveland facility, and back every sale with a 6-month warranty.

Whether you need a direct factory replacement for a Silverado with internal damage, a fresh engine for a Tahoe with high mileage, or a clean L83 assembly for a truck rebuild or swap project, we have the inventory and the experience to get you the right unit.

What Makes the L83 EcoTec3 Different

Owners who have researched the 5.3 replacement market will notice two distinct generations. The older Generation IV Vortec 5.3 engines like the LM7, LC9, and LMG were solid platforms but they used port fuel injection and did not include the variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation refinements that came with the EcoTec3 generation.

The L83 is a Generation V engine introduced in the 2014 model year trucks. Direct injection delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber rather than into the intake port which improves combustion efficiency and fuel economy. Variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts optimises power and efficiency across the RPM range. Active Fuel Management allows the engine to deactivate four cylinders under light load conditions to reduce fuel consumption during highway cruising.

The result is a 5.3L V8 that produces more horsepower and better fuel economy than the previous generation engines while maintaining the reliability and towing capability that GM truck owners expect. For owners who specifically want EcoTec3 technology in their replacement engine rather than stepping back to an older Vortec platform, the L83 is the correct unit.

Engine Specifications

GM 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 V8, General Specifications

• Engine Type: V8, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
• Displacement: 5.3L, 325 cubic inches
• Configuration: 90 degree V8
• Block Material: Aluminum
• Fuel System: Direct injection, high-pressure fuel system
• Variable Valve Timing: Dual independent VVT on intake and exhaust
• Cylinder Deactivation: Active Fuel Management, AFM
• Horsepower: Approximately 355 HP depending on application and model year
• Torque: Approximately 383 lb-ft
• Compression Ratio: 11.0:1
• Engine Family: GM EcoTec3, Gen V LS-based platform
• Factory Applications: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2014 to 2018, GMC Sierra 1500 2014 to 2018, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade

Specifications vary slightly by model year and application. Call us with your year and application and we confirm which variant we currently have in stock.

What Is Included

Because inventory varies by available unit the included components depend on the specific engine we have in stock. The typical package includes the following:

Standard Inclusions

• Complete long block assembly
• Intake manifold
• High-pressure fuel rails and direct injectors
• Valve covers
• Oil pan
• Variable valve timing actuators

Notes on Inclusions

The L83 uses a high-pressure direct injection fuel system that differs significantly from the port injection systems on older Vortec engines. The fuel rails, injectors, and high-pressure fuel pump on the engine are part of the assembly and their condition matters for proper operation. We confirm the condition of the injection system components on every unit before shipping.

Wiring harness and ECU are not included unless specifically confirmed at time of order. AFM lifter assembly condition is noted on every unit we inspect given its relevance to buyers planning to delete AFM on their replacement engine. Call us before ordering and we tell you exactly what is included and what the AFM system condition looks like on the specific unit in stock.

Condition and Inspection

Every L83 EcoTec3 we sell goes through a hands-on inspection at our Cleveland facility. The direct injection system and AFM components on this engine require specific attention during inspection that older port-injected engines do not.

What We Check Before Every L83 Ships

• Compression tested on every cylinder with actual numbers recorded
• Full visual inspection of block, heads, and external components for cracks, leaks, and damage
• Mileage verified against donor vehicle records
• High-pressure fuel system inspected for injector seal condition and rail integrity
• Oil condition checked for signs of contamination or extended service neglect
• Coolant passages inspected for signs of mixing or head gasket issues
• AFM lifter valley inspected on select units for oil passage condition
• Variable valve timing actuators checked for proper installation and condition
• No knocking, no ticking, no unusual engine noise confirmed before packaging

The AFM system on the L83 is a point we address honestly with every buyer. AFM lifter failures are a documented issue on Gen V 5.3 engines at higher mileage. We inspect the lifter valley and oil passages on every unit and note the AFM system condition in our pre-ship documentation. Buyers who plan to delete AFM on their replacement engine should let us know when they call.

Vehicle Compatibility

Common Factory Applications

The GM 5.3L L83 EcoTec3 was factory fitted in the following vehicles:

• Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2014 to 2018
• GMC Sierra 1500, 2014 to 2018
• Chevrolet Tahoe, 2015 to 2020
• Chevrolet Suburban, 2015 to 2020
• GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, 2015 to 2020
• Cadillac Escalade, 2015 to 2020

Fitment depends on your specific year, trim, RPO code, and ECU calibration. The L83 uses a high-pressure direct injection system that requires ECU calibration specific to the EcoTec3 platform. Substituting an L83 into an application previously equipped with an older Vortec port-injected engine is not a direct swap without addressing fuel system and ECU compatibility. Call us with your VIN and RPO code before ordering and we confirm the right unit for your application.

L83 Replacement and Swap Applications

The L83 EcoTec3 is one of the most in-demand replacement engines in the current GM truck market. The combination of direct injection efficiency, variable valve timing, and proven GM V8 reliability makes it a natural choice for owners who want to restore their truck to factory specification with a clean low mileage unit rather than stepping down to an older engine generation.

For fleet operators and high-mileage truck owners the L83 replacement is frequently more cost-effective than a rebuild of the original engine. A verified low mileage replacement drops in as a direct substitute and restores the EcoTec3 technology that makes these trucks perform and consume fuel the way they are supposed to.

For swap applications outside the factory L83 chassis, the direct injection fuel system and AFM controls require careful planning. The high-pressure fuel pump, injectors, and ECU calibration are all part of making the EcoTec3 system work correctly. Buyers doing a swap project should talk to us before ordering so we can advise on what supporting components and wiring work the application requires.

Warranty

Every L83 EcoTec3 engine we sell comes with a 6-month warranty against internal mechanical defects. James McClain has been honoring warranty claims since 2009. If the engine develops a covered mechanical failure within that period, contact our team. We review the situation and work toward a fair resolution. Replacement engine, credit, or repair guidance depending on what happened.

We address the AFM system honestly at point of sale. The warranty covers internal mechanical defects. AFM system condition on the specific unit is documented and disclosed before the order is processed so both parties understand exactly what is being sold.

Shipping

We ship from Cleveland, Ohio to all 50 states. The L83 ships on a freight pallet, fully secured and protected for transit. Most orders are processed and ready to ship within 1 to 3 business days after confirmation and payment. You receive a tracking number as soon as the engine leaves our facility.

Why Buyers Come to McClain Auto Part

Over 15 years in business. More than 10,000 engines shipped to mechanics, shops, and vehicle owners across the country. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars across 800+ verified Google reviews. Founded by James McClain in Cleveland, Ohio in 2009.

We are not a listing service. Every engine we sell is physically in our Cleveland warehouse, inspected by our team, and ready to ship. When you call us about an L83 EcoTec3 engine you are talking to someone who knows the platform, understands the AFM system considerations, and can give you accurate information about the specific unit we have in stock.

A Silverado owner who ordered from us said: “Needed a replacement L83 for my 2016 Silverado after a spun bearing. McClain confirmed the mileage, disclosed the AFM condition on the unit, and it arrived exactly as described. Truck runs exactly as it should. No surprises.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What Vehicles Use the L83 Engine?

The L83 EcoTec3 was factory fitted in the Silverado 1500, Sierra 1500, Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade from 2014 to 2020 depending on the specific model. Call us with your VIN and RPO code to confirm your exact application before ordering.

Is the Engine Tested Before Shipping?

Yes. Every L83 goes through compression testing on all eight cylinders, visual inspection, oil condition check, mileage verification, and direct injection system inspection at our Cleveland facility before packaging.

How Many Miles Are on This Engine?

Under 80,000 miles, verified from donor vehicle records. Most of our current L83 inventory comes in lower than that. We give you the exact mileage on the specific unit before you order.

Does It Come With Accessories?

Most units include the intake manifold, direct injection fuel rails and injectors, valve covers, and oil pan. Wiring harness and ECU are not included unless confirmed at time of order. We tell you exactly what is included on the specific unit before you commit to the order.

Is This a Direct Replacement for My Silverado?

For 2014 to 2018 Silverado 1500 models equipped with the L83 EcoTec3 it is a direct replacement. Confirm your RPO code and ECU calibration before ordering. Substituting an L83 into an application originally fitted with an older Vortec engine requires fuel system and ECU compatibility work.

Does the Engine Include Injectors or Intake Manifold?

Yes. The direct injection fuel rails and injectors are typically included as part of the assembly along with the intake manifold. We confirm the condition of the injection system components on every unit as part of our pre-ship inspection.

What Does the Warranty Cover?

Six months from purchase date against internal mechanical defects. AFM system condition is disclosed at point of sale. The warranty covers internal engine failure. Contact us if a covered issue arises and we work toward a fair resolution.

Ready to Order Your L83 EcoTec3 Engine?

Clean low mileage L83 EcoTec3 engines move consistently. Silverado and Sierra owners who need a direct EcoTec3 replacement come to us because we know the platform, inspect what we sell, and give accurate information before the order ships.

If you need a used L83 engine from a seller who understands the direct injection system and addresses the AFM considerations honestly, call us, email us, or place your order now. We confirm mileage, RPO compatibility, AFM system condition, and exactly what is included before anything ships.

McClain Auto Part. Cleveland, Ohio. In business since 2009. 10,000+ engines shipped. 4.9 stars on Google. 6-month warranty on every engine we sell.