Chevy/GMC 6.0 (LQ4) V8 Engine With 2WD 4L80E LS Swap Donor Dropout 30k Mileages!

Chevy GMC 6.0L LQ4 V8 Engine for Sale, Used GM 6.0 Vortec Engine, Low Mileage

Key Features

• Low mileage unit, under 80,000 miles verified
• Compression tested on every cylinder
• Iron block construction, built for heavy duty use
• No knocking, no ticking, no signs of internal damage
• Visually inspected at our Cleveland, Ohio facility
• 6-month warranty against mechanical defects
• Ships nationwide on a secured freight pallet
• Most orders processed and shipped within 1 to 3 business days

The LQ4 Engine. Built for Work, Respected by Builders.

The Chevy 6.0 LQ4 engine is one of the most capable truck V8s GM ever produced. It powered heavy duty Silverados, Sierra 2500s, Express vans, and Hummer H2s for over a decade because it was built to handle serious load. This is not a half-ton engine stretched into a bigger truck. The LQ4 was engineered from the start for towing, hauling, and long-term commercial use.

At McClain Auto Part we have been sourcing and selling used GM engines since 2009. The LQ4 is one of our most consistent sellers and we understand why. Truck owners who need a reliable replacement want something that has already proven itself in the real world. Builders who want a strong foundation for an LS swap or a boosted build want the iron block. Both groups find what they are looking for in the 6.0L LQ4.

We stock verified low mileage units, inspect every one at our Cleveland facility, and back every sale with a 6-month warranty. If you need a used 6.0 Vortec engine that is ready to work, you are in the right place.

Why the LQ4 Earns Its Reputation

Spend enough time around GM truck engines and the LQ4 stands out for a few reasons. The displacement is larger than the common 5.3L, which means more torque at lower RPM. That matters when you are pulling a loaded trailer or running a work truck that never really gets a day off.

The iron block is the other big factor. While aluminum block LS engines are lighter and run cooler, the cast iron block in the LQ4 handles heat and stress differently. It is more forgiving under boost and high load conditions. That is exactly why builders gravitate toward it when they are planning a turbocharged LS swap on a budget. You get the strength of an iron block, the bolt-on compatibility of the LS platform, and a price point that leaves money for the build.

Compared to the LS3 or LQ9, the LQ4 is more affordable and more available in the used market. For towing applications and budget-conscious performance builds it is often the smarter choice.

Engine Specifications

GM 6.0L LQ4 V8, General Specifications

• Engine Type: V8, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder
• Displacement: 6.0L, 364 cubic inches
• Configuration: 90 degree V8
• Block Material: Cast iron
• Cylinder Head Style: Cathedral port, aluminum heads
• Fuel System: Sequential fuel injection
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Horsepower: Approximately 300 to 325 HP depending on application and model year
• Torque: Approximately 360 to 370 lb-ft
• Compression Ratio: 9.4:1 to 10.0:1 depending on year
• Engine Family: GM LS platform, Gen III
• Factory Applications: Chevy Silverado 2500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD, Chevy Express van, GMC Savana van, Cadillac Escalade select years, Hummer H2

Output figures and compression ratio vary by model year and application. Call us with your year and application and we confirm which variant we have in stock.

How We Inspect Every LQ4 Before It Ships

The LQ4 goes into work trucks and heavy applications. Buyers who order it expect it to handle load from day one. We inspect every unit at our Cleveland facility with that expectation in mind.

Our Inspection Process

• Compression tested on every cylinder with actual numbers recorded
• Full visual inspection of the block, heads, and external components for cracks and damage
• Mileage verified against donor vehicle records
• Oil condition checked for signs of contamination, coolant mixing, or extended service neglect
• Coolant passages inspected for signs of head gasket issues
• Timing chain and tensioners checked for wear
• Valley cover inspected for sludge on select units
• No knocking, no ticking, no unusual engine noise confirmed before packaging

These engines come out of working trucks. We know what high mileage neglect looks like and we know what a well-maintained unit looks like. The ones that pass our process are the ones that ship.

Vehicle Compatibility

Common Factory Applications

The GM 6.0L V8 LQ4 was used across a wide range of heavy duty GM vehicles. Common applications include:

• Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, 2001 to 2007
• GMC Sierra 2500HD, 2001 to 2007
• Chevrolet Express 2500 and 3500 vans, 2001 to 2007
• GMC Savana 2500 and 3500 vans, 2001 to 2007
• Cadillac Escalade EXT and ESV, select years
• Hummer H2, 2003 to 2007
• Chevrolet Suburban 2500, select years
• GMC Yukon XL 2500, select years

Fitment depends on your specific year, trim, and configuration. The LQ4 shares the LS platform architecture but differences in wiring, ECU calibration, and accessories exist across model years and applications. Call us with your VIN before ordering and we confirm the right unit for your vehicle.

The LQ4 for LS Swaps and Performance Builds

The LQ4 has a dedicated following in the LS swap and performance build community and it is easy to understand why. The iron block handles boost better than most aluminum block alternatives at this price point. Builders running turbocharged setups regularly choose the LQ4 specifically because the bottom end can handle the added cylinder pressure without the block flex concerns that come with aluminum under heavy boost.

At around 300 horsepower in stock trim the LQ4 is not a performance engine out of the box. But the LS architecture means everything bolts on. Camshafts, cylinder heads, intake manifolds, and forced induction kits designed for the LS platform work on the LQ4 with minimal modification. Builders who plan ahead buy the iron block LQ4 as their foundation and build up from there.

For budget-conscious LS swap projects where the goal is reliability and boost potential rather than maximum naturally aspirated output, the LQ4 consistently makes more sense than paying a premium for an LS3 or LQ9.

What Is Included With the Engine

Typical Inclusions

• Complete long block assembly
• Intake manifold
• Fuel injectors
• Valve covers
• Oil pan

Wiring harness, ECU, sensors, and accessory drive components are not included unless specifically confirmed at the time of order. What comes attached to the engine depends on how it was pulled from the donor vehicle and varies between units.

Call us before ordering and we tell you exactly what is included with the specific GM 6.0L engine we have in stock right now. No assumptions on either end.

Warranty

Every LQ4 engine we sell comes with a 6-month warranty covering internal mechanical defects. If the engine develops a covered mechanical failure within that period, contact our team. We look at what happened and work toward a fair resolution. Replacement engine, credit, or repair guidance depending on the situation.

James McClain has been standing behind warranty claims since 2009. We are not looking for loopholes to avoid a legitimate claim. If the engine failed because of something on our end, we own it and we sort it out.

Shipping

We ship from Cleveland, Ohio to all 50 states. The LQ4 ships on a freight carrier due to engine weight, fully palletized, strapped down, and protected for transit. Most orders are ready to ship within 1 to 3 business days after processing.

You receive a tracking number as soon as the engine leaves our facility. It arrives in the same condition it left ours.

Why Buyers Come Back to McClain Auto Part

Over 15 years in business. More than 10,000 engines shipped to mechanics, fleet operators, 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 own team, and ready to ship when you order it. When you call us you are talking to someone who has handled these engines and can give you a straight answer about what we have.

A shop owner who orders from us regularly put it this way: “Bought two LQ4 engines from McClain for fleet Silverado 2500s. Both showed up low miles, ran clean from startup, no comebacks from either install. That is what I need when trucks cannot sit down.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the LQ4 a Good Engine for Towing?

Yes. The 6.0L displacement and iron block construction make the LQ4 one of the better naturally aspirated truck V8s for towing applications. Around 360 to 370 lb-ft of torque in stock form gives it the low end pull that towing demands.

What Vehicles Use the LQ4 Engine?

The LQ4 was factory fitment in Chevy Silverado 2500HD and GMC Sierra 2500HD trucks, Chevy Express and GMC Savana vans, select Cadillac Escalade models, and the Hummer H2 across multiple model years from 2001 to 2007 primarily. Call us with your year and application to confirm.

Is the LQ4 Good for Turbo Builds?

It is one of the better choices for budget turbocharged LS builds specifically because of the iron block. The cast iron bottom end handles boost pressure and heat differently than aluminum block alternatives. Builders running 500 to 600 horsepower turbo setups regularly use the LQ4 as their foundation.

How Many Miles Are on the Engine?

Under 80,000 miles, verified from donor vehicle records. Most of our current LQ4 inventory comes in lower than that. We give you the exact mileage on the specific unit before you order.

What Is Included With the Engine?

Most units include the long block, intake manifold, fuel injectors, valve covers, and oil pan. Wiring harness and ECU are not included. Exactly what is attached varies by unit. Call us before ordering and we confirm what comes with the specific engine in stock.

Does It Come With Accessories or Wiring?

Wiring harness, ECU, sensors, and accessory drive components are not included unless confirmed at the time of order. If you need specific accessories for your application, let us know when you call and we tell you what we have available on the unit in stock.

Ready to Order Your LQ4 Engine?

The GM 6.0L LQ4 is a proven platform and clean low mileage units do not stay in inventory long. Truck owners who need a reliable replacement and builders who want an iron block LS foundation both come to us for this engine regularly.

If you need a used LQ4 engine for sale from a seller with real experience behind it, call us, email us, or place your order now. We confirm mileage, fitment, and exactly what is included before anything ships. Most orders leave our Cleveland warehouse within 1 to 3 business days.

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.