If you’re chasing big power from an LS platform whether it’s for your street ute, burnout car, or full-tilt drag build, you already know the LS engine family is one of the most versatile and modification-friendly powerplants ever produced. Thanks to clever engineering, a lightweight alloy block, and massive aftermarket support, LS engines respond incredibly well to upgrades. But with so many parts on the market, figuring out what actually delivers maximum horsepower gains can get a bit overwhelming.
To make things easier, we’ve rounded up the top ls engine performance parts that consistently deliver strong, reliable power increases, without sacrificing drivability for Aussie road conditions.
High-Flow Intake Manifolds
One of the simplest ways to let your LS breathe better is by upgrading the intake manifold. The factory units are decent, but performance-focused options like the FAST LSXRT 102mm intake give your engine a straighter, less restrictive airflow path.
These intakes shine at higher RPM and are particularly popular with boosted or cammed setups. Pairing a high-flow manifold with a big-mouth throttle body can unlock significant top-end horsepower, especially on LS3 and LS7 builds. If you’re chasing that crisp throttle response and extra punch up high, this upgrade is hard to beat.
Performance Camshafts
If there’s one LS mod that consistently delivers massive gains, it’s a camshaft upgrade. The LS responds to a hot cam better than almost any other engine on the market.
Brands like Comp Cams and Texas Speed offer a wide range of grinds suited for street, strip, and forced-induction applications. A well-matched cam can add 30–80+ horsepower, depending on supporting mods.
You’ll want to consider:
- Lobe separation angle (LSA)
- Duration and lift
- Vehicle weight and gearing
- Whether you’re running NA or boost
While a cam install requires more effort than bolt-ons like headers or intakes, the power return is absolutely worth it.
Long-Tube Headers and High-Flow Exhausts
The stock exhaust manifolds on LS engines are restrictive, designed more for emissions compliance than power. Swapping to long-tube headers, such as those offered by Pacemaker Headers, can dramatically improve exhaust scavenging.
The benefits include:
- More low- to mid-range torque
- Better throttle response
- Increased horsepower across the entire RPM range
For optimal results, match them with a high-flow catalytic converter and a quality cat-back exhaust system. Many Aussie LS enthusiasts consider headers one of the top three mods for reliable gains without breaking the bank.
Upgraded Fuel Systems
Once your LS is making more power, it’ll need more fuel—especially if you’re running boost or E85. Upgrading to larger injectors, a high-flow in-tank pump, or a booster pump ensures your engine stays safely fed under heavy load.
Popular injector upgrades include units from Bosch 210lb injectors, which are reliable, ethanol-compatible, and perfect for high-horsepower builds.
Under-fueling is one of the quickest ways to destroy an LS engine, so this is one area you don’t want to skimp on.
Forced-Induction Kits: Superchargers and Turbos
If maximum horsepower is your goal, forced induction is the most effective power multiplier you can bolt to an LS engine.
Superchargers
Roots-style and centrifugal blowers, like those from Harrop Engineering deliver instant torque and huge top-end power. Superchargers offer a more linear power curve, making them great for street cars and circuit use.
Turbochargers
Turbo systems can produce enormous horsepower when tuned correctly. Kits from manufacturers such as Garrett are popular for LS builds thanks to their efficiency and wide range of sizes to suit various goals.
Both options can easily push an LS well beyond 600–800 hp with the right supporting mods.
Engine Management and ECU Tuning
After installing hardware upgrades, the real magic happens with proper tuning. Using performance-focused software like HP Tuners VCM Suite, tuners can optimise fuel curves, ignition timing, cam phasing, and throttle response for maximum efficiency and power.
A good tune can unlock hidden horsepower, even on a stock LS, and is essential when modifying intake, exhaust, boost levels, or camshafts.
High-Performance Ignition and Cooling Upgrades
With higher power levels comes more heat and greater demand on the ignition system. Consider:
- High-flow radiators
- Upgraded ignition coils
- Performance spark plugs
- Oil coolers
These supporting upgrades improve engine longevity and keep temperatures stable—critical in hotter Australian climates where LS engines are often pushed hard.
Final Thoughts
The LS platform is unbeatable when it comes to modification potential, and the parts listed above are proven performers for anyone chasing serious horsepower gains. Whether you’re targeting a reliable boost in street performance or building a dyno-crushing monster, the right combination of intake, exhaust, cam, tuning, and fuelling upgrades will transform your LS into a completely different beast.
