Golen Engine Service

Why a Jeep LS Swap Cooling System Upgrade Needs Balance

Chad Golen — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 13:00:25 +0000

Key Takeaways: A Jeep LS swap stays cooler when you match the radiator to engine output, grille opening, and low-speed airflow, because an oversized thick core can hurt trail cooling instead of helping it. Shrouding, fan choice, and fan spacing make or break cooling performance, since the system only works when air is pulled evenly …

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How to Choose the Right 454 Chevy Engine Setup

Chad Golen — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:00:14 +0000

Key Takeaways: A 454 delivers its best street performance when you build around broad low and midrange torque, then match that power curve to the gearing, axle ratio, and converter instead of chasing peak horsepower alone. Reliable drivability comes from a matched package of compression, camshaft, heads, balance, and fuel and ignition tuning; over-camming, over-carbing, …

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LT1 Engine Rebuild: Step-by-Step Guide to Restoring Performance

Chad Golen — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 13:00:18 +0000

Key Takeaways: A proper LT1 engine rebuild goes far beyond replacing gaskets—precision measurements, in-depth inspection, and expert machine work are essential for restoring performance and reliability. Choosing quality components and addressing LT1-specific quirks, such as reverse-flow cooling and the OptiSpark ignition system, are crucial steps to ensure long-term durability and prevent common failures. Customizing your …

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How to Maximize LT1 Engine Horsepower Potential Without Sacrificing Reliability

Chad Golen — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 11:00:13 +0000

Key Takeaways: Maximizing LT1 engine horsepower safely requires a system-level approach, balancing airflow, fueling, cooling, and calibration to avoid reliability issues. The most impactful upgrades for LT1 horsepower are cylinder heads, camshaft, and supporting fuel and valvetrain components, all brought together with calibrated dyno tuning. Choosing a custom-built LT1 engine over stock upgrades is essential …

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What Is the Difference Between LS3 and L92 Heads? Choosing the Right Upgrade for Your LS Build

Chad Golen — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:30:24 +0000

Key Takeaways: LS3 and L92 heads share a rectangular-port design but differ in valve specs, and spring rates, affecting rpm capability. LS3 heads offer higher factory compression and rpm stability, while L92 heads provide a cost-effective foundation for upgrades, especially with CNC porting and spring enhancements. Both head types benefit significantly from professional CNC porting …

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Everything You Need to Know About the LS7 Engine

Chad Golen — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 11:30:13 +0000

Key Takeaways: The LS7 engine stands out for its race-derived technology, including a factory dry-sump oiling system and titanium components, making it a unique and powerful choice for performance builds. Addressing known reliability concerns — especially with the oiling and valvetrain systems — through targeted upgrades is essential for maximizing both horsepower and long-term dependability. …

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LT4 Engine Specs, Performance, and Swap Considerations Explained

Chad Golen — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:00:17 +0000

Key Takeaways: The LT4 engine delivers impressive factory supercharged performance but requires careful planning for fuel, cooling, and electronics integration during swaps. Custom LSx crate engines can match or exceed LT4 power levels with less complexity, lower costs, and greater serviceability, making them a strong alternative for street builds. Choosing between LT4 and LSx depends …

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SBC 350 vs 383 Stroker Performance Comparison: Power, Torque, and Street Performance Breakdown

Chad Golen — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:00:06 +0000

Key Takeaways: The 383 stroker delivers significantly more low-end and midrange torque than the 350, making it ideal for street performance and daily driving with effortless acceleration. A well-built 350 offers a high-revving character and better traction management, suiting drivers who prefer higher RPM operation and wet-weather control. Both engines can be highly reliable and …

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Jeep 4.0 Engine Upgrades That Deliver Real-World Results

Chad Golen — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:30:49 +0000

Key Takeaways: Strategic upgrades to the Jeep 4.0 — starting with a solid foundation, improved airflow, and robust cooling — deliver reliable trail performance and prevent common failures. Upgrading to a professionally built 4.6L stroker engine provides dramatic increases in low-end torque and horsepower, ideal for off-road climbs and loaded adventures. Proper tuning, quality components, …

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Best 350 Crate Engine for Street Reliability: Proven Builds for Daily Driving

Chad Golen — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:00:29 +0000

Key Takeaways: Prioritize engines with conservative compression ratios (9.0:1–9.5:1), hydraulic roller cams, and tight quench for optimal street reliability and longevity on pump gas. Demand professional blueprinting, balanced rotating assemblies, and a documented dyno break-in to ensure your 350 crate engine is truly ready for daily driving. Modern LSx crate engines from reputable builders like …

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