LS7 engine failures

[04Vert]

Just wondering here, as the owner of an 07 Z06 with an engine build date of 12/06, Ive been reading more and more posts of LS7 engine failures lately on CF. I dont really buy into the sky is falling hype but Im wondering if C4C5 Spec. has personally seen or acquired any personal knowledge through GM of these failures? My Z is bone stock, has only 9500 miles on it, and has not been tracked, but do like to see 6500 rpm on occasion. It is extremely well taken care of, should I have any concerns here? Any advice on preventive maintenance for LS7's? Of all the vetes Ive owned over the last 20 years, this one is my fave will stay in my possesion forever. Thanks for any input C4C5, your knowledge and passion for corvette and all things GM is immeasurable.

[froggy47]

Bump, interested

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,

Truthfully, most failures with LS7 that I have seen are usually due to actual modifications creating the condition.

PCM tuning creating a lean condition at WOT, blowing holes in pistons, Overrevving when downshifting, hitting pistons against valves when they float are just a few.

Aftermarket airfilters creating a lean #7 when modified, creating the condition of detonation and piston failure are also prevalent.

I have seen a few OEM rocker arms lose their bearings because the side caps come lose and drop rollers into the pan. But its also critical to note that these do not create blown engines, only noise and needs to replace rockers and valves in some cases.

In my own opinion, they have been very reliable and any issues with LS7 have been corrected with product updates over time.

My ONLY recommendation, dont modify the engine or tuning UNLESS you start from the ground up engine build PRIOR to getting headers or tuning. This will result in a bulletproof powertrain if you want to modify.

Allthebest, c4c5

[NORTY]

Interesting Paul, very interesting.

No word regarding guides? Hmmm, maybe the sky isn't falling...

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,

A few ticking engines due to valve guides, yes, but certainly NOT to the numbers that some are claiming, 2 so far since 2006.

Allthebest, c4c5

[NORTY]

Originally Posted by c4c5specialist

HI there,

A few ticking engines due to valve guides, yes, but certainly NOT to the numbers that some are claiming, 2 so far since 2006.

Allthebest, c4c5

Is that 2 in your personal experience, or 2 in your dealership's experience, or 2 companywide?

I know the other site loves to blow up numbers, just to have something to write about (and claim self importance.)