The Chevrolet LWD is a 6,592 cc, V8 gasoline engine produced between 2011 and 2019. Part of GM's Gen IV small-block family, it features a cast-iron block, aluminum heads, and variable valve timing (VVT). In standard configuration, it delivered 302 kW (410 PS) and 565 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end pulling power ideal for full-size truck and SUV applications.
Fitted to models such as the Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, the LWD was engineered for drivers seeking robust performance and towing capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced catalyst systems and precise air-fuel control, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is intake manifold gasket degradation, particularly under high-temperature operating conditions. This issue, identified in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 14-06-01-005, results from thermal cycling stress on the composite gasket material. From 2014 onward, revised gasket design and updated bolt-torque specifications were implemented to improve sealing integrity.
Chevrolet
Production years 2011–2019 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards (EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2011/LWD).
The Chevrolet LWD is a 6,592 cc V8 gasoline engine from GM's Gen IV small-block family (2011–2019). It combines a durable iron block with aluminum heads and variable valve timing to deliver consistent power and towing capability. Designed to meet U.S. emissions standards, it balances full-size vehicle performance with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,592 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 99.5 mm | |
| Power output | 302 kW (410 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 565 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5, LEV II ULEV | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Valvetrain | Overhead valve (OHV), pushrod, hydraulic roller lifters | |
| Variable valve timing | Yes (intake only) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 222 kg |
The LWD's broad torque curve delivers strong mid-range pull ideal for towing and hauling but demands adherence to 15,000-mile oil change intervals using GM Dexos1 5W-30 to protect the valvetrain and VVT system. Intake manifold gasket failure is common in high-heat applications due to thermal cycling stress; GM revised gasket material in 2014 to improve durability. The OHV design is robust but sensitive to oil sludge buildup—delayed maintenance increases risk of lifter noise or VVT solenoid clogging. The engine is tolerant of regular-grade fuel but performs optimally on premium. Regular inspection of PCV system and spark plugs helps maintain long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 14-06-01-005). Not compatible with older GM oil standards.
Emissions: U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV II ULEV certification applies to all models (EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2011/LWD). No Euro compliance due to North American market focus.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across production run; no regional power variations.
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs LWD-Architecture-01, LWD-Perf-02, SIB 14-06-01-005
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Light-Duty Vehicle Certification Database
EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2011/LWD
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Chevrolet LWD was used across Chevrolet's full-size pickup and SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed production. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced cooling in the Suburban and heavy-duty intake in the Silverado 1500-and from 2014 the facelifted Tahoe models adopted revised intake manifold gaskets, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID tag stamped on the passenger-side cylinder head near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS LWD-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LWD series). Pre-2014 models have a black intake manifold with ribbed surface; post-2014 units feature revised gasket design with updated bolt pattern. Critical differentiation from L8T: LWD is a naturally aspirated V8 with VVT, while L8T is a supercharged variant used in performance models. Service parts require model year verification—intake manifolds before 2014 are not interchangeable with later units due to gasket changes (GM SIB 14-06-01-005).
The LWD's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket failure under sustained high-temperature operation, with elevated incidence in fleet and towing applications. Internal GM field reports from 2017 indicated approximately 9% of pre-2014 units required intake resealing before 150,000 miles, while EPA compliance data shows VVT solenoid clogging is common in poorly maintained examples. Extended idling and infrequent oil changes increase thermal stress and sludge formation, making coolant and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2011-2019) and U.S. EPA Light-Duty Vehicle Failure Statistics (2013-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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