Modern crate engines deliver reliability, power, and parts availability that far outpace decades-old factory motors:
Reliability. Electronic fuel injection (EFI) and sealed cooling systems prevent vapor lock and overheating in Las Vegas’s summer heat.
Power & Efficiency. Gain 100–300 hp over stock, often with equal or better fuel economy.
Ease of Sourcing. OEM-backed crate engines come with full warranties and nationwide support networks.
Simplified Installation. Pre-assembled short-block and top-end configurations reduce shop time.
Future-Proofing. Ample aftermarket support means upgrades and rebuilds stay affordable.
Whether you’re restoring a 1967 Camaro, a ’70 Challenger, or a ’55 Chevy pickup, a well-matched crate engine can turn your project into a drivable, dependable daily—or a canyon-carving weekend warrior.
Top Crate Engine Options
GM LS3 (Gen IV) Crate Engine
Highlights:
Displacement: 6.2L V8
Power: 430 hp @ 5,900 rpm, 424 lb-ft @ 4,600 rpm
Weight: ~425 lb (complete)
Cost Range: \$8 000–\$9 500
Why It’s Great: The LS3 is the “Swiss Army knife” of crate engines—compact, aluminum-block design with fuel injection. It fits in most A-bodies, F-bodies, Tri-Fives, and even some Mustang frames with minor modifications. EFI delivers crisp throttle response, critical during high-speed passes on U.S. 95. 👉 Related service: LS Engine Swaps
GM ZZ6 Crate Engine
Highlights:
Displacement: 5.7L (350 ci) V8
Power: 405 hp @ 6,100 rpm, 406 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
Weight: ~415 lb
Cost Range: \$6 000–\$7 200
Why It’s Great: A budget-friendlier LS option, the ZZ6 uses a cast-iron block with high-flow aluminum heads. It’s perfect for first-time swappers who want modern performance without the full LS3 price tag. Bolt-in swap kits are plentiful, and the cast-iron block tolerates Nevada’s altitudes without extra cooling mods. 👉 Related service: Engine Swaps & Performance Upgrades
Ford 5.0 Coyote Crate Engine
Highlights:
Displacement: 5.0L DOHC V8
Power: 460 hp @ 7,000 rpm, 420 lb-ft @ 4,600 rpm
Weight: ~515 lb
Cost Range: \$9 500–\$11 500
Why It’s Great: The modern Coyote delivers high-revving excitement and direct-injection efficiency. Though wider than an LS, custom headers and narrow shock-tower spacers make it fit inside Mopars, Mustangs, and Customs. Electronic throttle-body and CAN-bus compatibility streamline integration with modern ECUs. 👉 Related service: Coyote Engine Swaps
Chrysler 5.7L HEMI Crate Engine
Highlights:
Displacement: 5.7L V8
Power: 370 hp @ 5,150 rpm, 395 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
Weight: ~525 lb
Cost Range: \$8 500–\$10 000
Why It’s Great: The HEMI’s hemispherical combustion chambers produce strong torque down low—ideal for heavy Mopars and trucks. Factory EFI harness and high-flow exhaust outlets simplify wiring and plumbing. Its steel block adds strength for high-boost turbos or superchargers in future resto-mods. 👉 Related service: Engine Swaps & Performance Upgrades
Small-Block Performance Packages
Highlights:
Displacement: 350–383 ci cast-iron
Power: 350–450 hp (depending on cam & heads)
Cost Range: \$5 000–\$7 500
Why It’s Great: For purists who want “steel under the hood,” GM and Ford both offer fully-assembled iron small-block crate engines with upgraded rotating assemblies, heads, and mild EFI. They bolt into original mounts and retain classic engine bay aesthetics while providing improved reliability.
Comparing Key Specs & Costs
Engine Option
hp / lb-ft
Weight (lb)
Cost Range
Ideal For
GM LS3
430 / 424
~425
\$8 000–\$9 500
Mid-’60s F-bodies, Tri-Fives
GM ZZ6
405 / 406
~415
\$6 000–\$7 200
Budget A-bodies, ’55–’57 Chevys
Ford 5.0 Coyote
460 / 420
~515
\$9 500–\$11 500
Restomodded Mustangs, Broncos
Chrysler 5.7 HEMI
370 / 395
~525
\$8 500–\$10 000
A-Bodies, Full-size Mopars
Iron Small-Block (350–383)
350–450
~550
\$5 000–\$7 500
Concours-style, original-look builds
Factors to Consider in Las Vegas
Heat Management. Triple-digit summers demand high-capacity radiators and dual electric fans—standard on all our swaps.
Altitude Tuning. At ~2,000 ft elevation, engines run leaner. We dyno-tune EFI calibrations to optimize air/fuel and ignition timing.
Emissions & Smog. Nevada requires smog for ’68-newer vehicles. We integrate catalytic converters and O₂ sensors seamlessly into crate harnesses.
Cooling & Accessory Drives. A/C compresses air; power steering demands parasitic draw—choosing an engine with a compact accessory drive eases packaging.
Weight & Balance. Aluminum-block options (LS3) shave 100+ lb off a cast-iron HEMI—improving handling on Summerlin’s winding hills.
Our Crate Engine Swap Services
At 777 Motorsports, we offer turnkey swaps from expert consultation to final tuning:
Free Vision Session
Discuss performance goals, budget, and originality preferences.
Inspect chassis, engine bay, and accessories.
Custom Swap Design
CAD-drawn mount and bracket solutions.
Cooling, exhaust, and wiring plans.
Professional Installation
ASE-certified techs handle engine fitment, motor mounts, and trans crossmember.
Wiring harness integration and EFI tuning.
Dyno Tuning & Validation
4-wheel chassis dyno to dial in air/fuel ratios and ignition maps.
Heat-soak loops on Desert Inn Rd to confirm cooling performance.
Finishing Touches
Matching intake covers, painted valve covers, and hidden modern conveniences (USB ports, ECU display).
We proudly serve classic-car enthusiasts throughout Southern Nevada, including:
Las Vegas: Summerlin, Paradise (The Strip), Spring Valley
Henderson: Green Valley, Anthem, Inspirada
North Las Vegas: Aliante, Eldorado
Boulder City & Lake Mead communities
Pahrump & Sloan (mobile estimates available)
Within 45 miles of 3271 S Highland Dr #709, we offer enclosed transport for major swaps and builds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which crate engine fits most classic Camaros and Chevelles? → The GM LS3 is the top pick—its compact dimensions and EFI harness make it a near-bolt-in on many ’60s Chevrolets.
Can I keep my factory transmission with a new crate engine? → Often yes, but we recommend upgrading to a modern 4L60E/4L80E or Tremec T56 for better gear ratios and reliability.
How long does a crate engine swap take? → Typically 4–6 weeks, including design, fabrication, installation, and tuning.
Do you offer financing on crate engines? → Yes. Projects over \$5 000 qualify for 0 % APR financing for up to 6 months.
Will swapping an engine affect my classic’s value? → A quality swap with documented parts and reversible mounts can increase resale appeal by broadening the buyer pool.
How do you handle Nevada emissions compliance? → We integrate catalytic converters, O₂ sensors, and OBD-II ports where required to pass Clark County smog tests.
Can I supply my own crate engine? → Yes—we’ll inspect and prepare customer-supplied engines, then install with our full workmanship warranty.
Ready to Revive Your Classic?
Give your vintage ride the modern heart it deserves. Call (844) 777-1296 or schedule your free consultation today. At 777 Motorsports, we make classic-car dreams run stronger, cooler, and more reliably than ever—right here in Las Vegas.
