LS Swap Gone Wrong! Installing Pistons & Rods on My 1988 Chevy Silverado | Part 5

Published on August 2, 2026
Duration: 23:08

This video details the assembly of pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft for an LS engine swap into a 1988 Chevy Silverado. It covers critical steps like ring gapping, piston ring orientation, crankshaft journal checks with Plastigage, and the installation of connecting rod bearings. The creators also discuss their experience with a problematic aftermarket oil pan from Evil Energy Auto Parts, highlighting quality concerns and their decision to opt for a higher-quality alternative.

Quick Summary

Proper LS engine assembly requires meticulous attention to detail, including precise piston ring gapping and orientation, crankshaft bearing clearance checks with Plastigage, and thorough lubrication of all moving parts with assembly lube. Inspecting aftermarket parts like oil pans for defects such as kinks or warped surfaces is crucial to prevent engine damage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Project Overview
  2. 00:32Block Preparation & Painting
  3. 00:58Ring Gapping & Crankshaft Installation
  4. 01:33Piston & Connecting Rod Assembly
  5. 02:03Piston Ring Installation Techniques
  6. 04:16Piston & Wrist Pin Assembly
  7. 05:22Assembly Lube & High Volume Oil Pump
  8. 05:53Installing Wrist Pin & C-Clips
  9. 06:17Budget LS Swap Challenges
  10. 07:10Piston/Wrist Pin Final Check
  11. 07:32Connecting Rod Bearing Installation
  12. 08:01Importance of Rod Bearings & Oil
  13. 08:32Engine Startup Considerations
  14. 08:43Connecting Rod Cap Installation
  15. 09:39Rod Cap Specificity & Torque
  16. 09:56Assembled Pistons & Next Steps
  17. 10:07Oil Pan Test Fit & Issues
  18. 10:27Oil Pan Quality Concerns
  19. 10:52Specific Oil Pan Defects
  20. 11:47Drain Plug Thread Issues
  21. 12:03Machining & Surface Finish Issues
  22. 12:14Decision to Reject Oil Pan
  23. 12:44Seeking New Oil Pan Recommendations
  24. 12:54Video Conclusion & Future Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the critical steps for installing piston rings during an LS engine rebuild?

Proper piston ring installation involves precise gapping for each cylinder, ensuring correct orientation (referencing bevels and markings), and staggering the gaps to prevent blow-by. The video emphasizes consulting manufacturer specifications for these details to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.

How do you ensure proper crankshaft bearing clearance during an LS engine assembly?

Crankshaft bearing clearance is checked using Plastigage. A strand of this material is placed on the bearing journal, the cap is torqued, and the flattened Plastigage is measured to verify the clearance meets the manufacturer's specifications, preventing binding and ensuring smooth rotation.

What are common quality issues with aftermarket LS engine oil pans, and why is it important to check them?

Aftermarket oil pans can have defects like kinks in the oil pickup tube, warped mating surfaces, or poorly threaded drain plugs. These issues can lead to oil starvation or leaks, potentially causing severe engine damage. Thorough inspection before installation is crucial.

Why is assembly lube important for LS engine components like pistons and bearings?

Assembly lube is vital for lubricating critical engine parts such as pistons, wrist pins, and bearings during the initial engine startup. It provides a protective film that prevents metal-to-metal contact and wear before the engine's oiling system can fully circulate oil.

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