Why the LSx Crate Motor Is the Top Choice for Modern Muscle Builds by Chad Golen July 3, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: A custom-built LSx crate motor with matched components and professional dyno tuning delivers reliable, street-friendly power and eliminates common drivability issues found in mismatched builds. Proper planning and integration—including mechanical fitment, electronics, and controlled break-in—are essential for a successful LSx swap in Camaros or Corvettes, ensuring long-term reliability and performance. Golen Engine Service … Read More
How to Perform a Jeep YJ Engine Swap for Maximum Off-Road Performance by Chad Golen June 26, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: A 4.6L stroker engine swap is the most practical and reliable upgrade for Jeep YJ owners seeking trail-ready torque and factory compatibility, with minimal installation complexity. LS engine swaps offer higher peak horsepower but require extensive custom fabrication, wiring, and increased costs, making them less ideal for off-road-focused builds. A successful YJ engine … Read More
6.0 Chevy Engine Swap: What You Need to Know for Your Next Build by Chad Golen June 19, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: The 6.0 Chevy LS engine is a versatile and affordable platform, offering robust architecture and extensive aftermarket support for both street and performance builds. Proven upgrade paths—including cam, head, and bottom-end enhancements—can reliably deliver 450–800+ horsepower, especially when validated with professional dyno tuning. Successful swaps and builds depend on careful component selection, compatibility … Read More
5.7 Chevy Engine Specs, History, and Modern Performance Tips by Chad Golen June 12, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: Smart upgrades focused on airflow, matched components, and proper tuning can turn the classic 5.7 Chevy engine into a seriously reliable street performer. While the 5.7 Chevy shines in budget-friendly and period-correct builds, LS engines bring better architecture, scalability, and turnkey performance for modern applications. At Golen Engines, we build LSx crate engines … Read More
Everything You Need to Know About the 6.2 Chevy Engine by Chad Golen June 5, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: The 6.2 Chevy engine is one of the most versatile platforms out there for street performance. Multiple variants and upgrade paths mean you can tailor it to exactly what you need. Getting the component selection right, investing in professional machining, and dialing in expert tuning: that is what separates a build that makes … Read More
What Engine Is in a Jeep Wrangler? Everything You Need to Know by Chad Golen May 29, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: Figuring out what engine is in a Jeep Wrangler is simpler than you think: your VIN, an emissions label, or a quick look under the hood will tell you exactly what you’re working with. Each Wrangler generation packed a different engine with its own personality, and matching the right one to your driving … Read More
Best Cylinder Heads for 5.3 LS Turbo: Top Picks for Maximum Power by Chad Golen May 22, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: Cylinder head selection for turbo 5.3 LS engines is about balancing airflow, chamber design, and durability—not just peak flow numbers—to achieve reliable, efficient power. Cathedral-port heads offer faster turbo spool and strong midrange torque for street builds, while rectangle-port heads excel at high boost and top-end power, especially when paired with proper valvetrain … Read More
What Fuel Pressure Does an LS3 Need? Your Complete Guide by Chad Golen May 15, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: The correct fuel pressure for a stock LS3 is 58 psi (400 kPa) at the fuel rail—essential for reliable performance and proper injector operation. Fuel pressure issues can cause significant power loss, drivability problems, and engine damage; accurate verification and prompt troubleshooting are critical. Boosted or high-performance LS3 builds require a 1:1 boost-referenced … Read More
The Ultimate Guide to Jeep Gladiator Engine Swap Options by Chad Golen May 8, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: Successful Jeep Gladiator engine swaps depend on total system integration—matching the new engine with transmission, cooling, electronics, and emissions for reliable trail performance. The most proven swap options are HEMI V8s, LS-based engines, and boosted Pentastars, each offering unique benefits and integration challenges for off-road use. Accurate budgeting and avoiding common pitfalls—such as … Read More
How to Perform a Jeep XJ Engine Swap for Maximum Off-Road Performance by Chad Golen May 1, 2026 0 Key Takeaways: A 4.6L stroker engine swap offers the best balance of bolt-in simplicity, reliability, and trail-ready torque for most Jeep XJ off-road builds, making it the preferred choice over more complex V8 conversions. Proper planning—including a detailed checklist, system upgrades, and realistic budgeting—ensures a smooth engine swap process and prevents common pitfalls that can … Read More