The LS Goes Off-Road

General Motors LS engines have developed a reputation as some of the most versatile power plants in history. These engines that make up the Gen III and Gen IV Small-Block family are known as powerful and reliable choices from the show to the track.

They perform on the off-road course, too.

Fittingly, the GM LS platform’s off-road prowess was on display during this year’s Off-Road Experience at Holley LS Fest East in Bowling Green, Kentucky. In the shadow of Beech Bend Park’s famed “Kentucky Rumbler” roller coaster, a variety of purpose-built off-road vehicles let dirt fly for three days in early September. 
 
Among the vehicles on hand were multiple high-powered buggies, trophy trucks, a stock-appearing square-body Chevrolet pickup truck and even some hoopties. 

While many of the engines at LS Fest were swaps or specially built mills, Chevrolet Performance is also involved in the off-road world, primarily through its 525 RLB crate engine.*  
 
The LS-based 525 RLB is a long-block assembly derived from the Bowtie’s CT525 crate option* and is available for universal sanctioning bodies. It has become a top choice of off-road racers competing in spec truck classes in the western United States. Now, it is poised to make its way to other off-road programs – including LS Fest. 
 
Check out a photo gallery below featuring some of the dust-covered off-road highlights from Bowling Green. 
 
Also, keep watching The BLOCK for more on off-road racing and all motorsports disciplines. 
 
*Because of their effect on a vehicle’s emissions performance, these engines are intended exclusively for use in competition vehicles. These engines are designed and intended for use in vehicles operated exclusively for competition: in racing or organized competition on courses separate from public roads, streets or highways. Installation or use of these engines on a vehicle operated on public roads, streets or highways is likely to violate U.S., Canadian, and state and provincial laws and regulations related to motor vehicle emissions.