This highly popular engine conversion involves fitting a compact, lightweight, and powerful GM LS V8 into a different chassis. Builders favor this engine family because of its immense aftermarket support, cheap junkyard availability, and ability to make massive horsepower reliably. It has become the default engine swap for everything from classic muscle cars to drift chassis.
He got tired of blowing up rotary engines and finally did an LS-swap on his RX-7.
"On a long enough timeline, everything gets an LS" is a common joke in the tuning community, referencing the swap's sheer ubiquity.
Related terms
K-swap
The installation of a Honda K-series engine into a different vehicle chassis.
Tesla-swap
Converting a traditional combustion vehicle to electric power using a salvaged Tesla powertrain.
Crate engine
A fully assembled, brand-new or remanufactured engine delivered ready to install.
HOT
A high-output turbocharger system designed to deliver maximum boost pressure.