LY6
The LY6 was introduced in 2007. It replaced the LQ4 and LQ9 as the Vortec 6000. Along with the LY2, LY5, and LMG, it was one of the first 4th generation, LS truck engines.
The LY6 used Variable Valve Timing (VVT). This helped it make more Torque and Horsepower than the previous 6.0L engines. It was available in GM pickups until 2010. It was also available in vans, and SUVs until 2009.
L96
The L96 replaced the LY6 in 2010. It was upgraded with Flex Fuel technology. It was available in GM pickups and vans until 2017. It was also available in the Yukon and Suburban until 2013. Finally, the 2016-17 Suburban had the L96.
For specific details about these engines, please follow the links below:
Benefits
These engines are strong and durable. With upgraded internals, the block can handle over 1,000 hp. So, they are popular when using boost or nitrous.
They also use the LS3-style, rectangle port cylinder heads for better airflow. The blocks have a 4.000 in. bore diameter. So, boring and stroking the engines to a 408 c.i.d. (6.7L) is also common.
(Both blocks have the internal oil passages for Active Fuel Management (AFM). However, neither engine used the technology.)
What's the difference?
The easiest way to tell the difference is to check the 8th digit of the VIN code.
- Follow this link to Identify an LS Engine by VIN.
The only difference between the engines is fuel compatibility. It's pretty easy to pull the injectors.
- Standard injectors have 2 holes in the end of the nozzle.
- Flex Fuel injectors have 4 holes in the end of the nozzle.
| RPO Code | AFM | VVT | Flex Fuel |
| LY6 | No | Yes | No |
| L96 | Yes |
Special Notes
The LC8 is a less common engine in this family. It runs on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or Liquid Propane Gas (LPG). The LC8 engines were only used in commercial vehicles. Vehicles with the LC8 will have a "B" as the 8th digit of the VIN.