Let's see
1140 hp/640 hp = 1.781
Square root of 1.781 = 1.335

Figure about 33.5% faster, so if a 292 ran 80 with 377's, it would run about 106.8 with 570's. That would keep the driver busy...

Does Ilmor actually build the engines? or are they GM crate engine that add all there own parts too?
I ask cause the only reason I can see for using the "LSX" block would be, because they are GM built long blocks.
It seems that had settled on this block before testing other options.

The ls3 will go to 427 cubes with little fuss and would actually be cheaper to build and about 125lbs lighter. Sure you give up a little torque but not much. The upper end of the engine would be built the same. 570hp is a walk in the park for a 427ls even with a small cam.

If it was priory main oiling, and displacement are what they were after then any of the other aftermarket Aluminum blocks that could easily go to 454cid (or up to 500) If they are actually building by hand in house then these blocks make more sense to me. Factor in machining time and The world products warhawk is pretty much the same cost as an LSX block. both rated at 2,000 hp, The "lSX" won't hold even close to that when punched out to 454cid The Warhawk will.

I'm trying to imagine the cam that is in that 454 to get it down to only 570hp. Or is 10%ish underrated which would put it right at the 620 hp that what Gm's crate motor puts out?

I'm glad they stayed away from the Ls7 block. It cost too much for what it is. Better options for the money.

Actually the 292 runs 70 with 640 hp, so that works out to 93.5 mph. Still cookin'!

Let see... change my drive ratio to 1.5:1, turn the engines 5700 rpm, run 30 pitch Bravo's, 13% slip, and she'll run 94 mph. Works for me!

All hand built to Ilmor specs at our factory in Plymouth, MI.

Any info on the other questions posed?

Are the heads ls3 or ls7 based?

Being that GM is probably not building the GMPP 454 lsx In House Any chance you guys have the contract? (even if you do I'm sure you can't talk about it, But Hey I can try)

Try this:
Original Ilmor 570 post


Take the time to read the entire post from start to finish (including the links). It will give you a lot of background and information. Note that torque is very important for marine engine builders.

Really? You asked why people are not talking about it? I ask questions, and you say look at the links? The OSO link is 17 pages long. the video has no real info. I'm sure I have read through that 17 pages at some point, I just did again and it still didn't answer the questions, the speed on the water article didn't answer the questions either.

I did find a post on page two where it was stated that an iron block was used for bore stability. With an LSX block at 454 cubes, we will just have to agree to disagree on that one. Counter intuitive I know. but it will be plenty strong at 570hp

I'm going to guess that the extra 6% torque that the 454 would make was necessary or that from a marketing stand point anything less then 454 cid would be a tough sell? Either answer would make sense.

With regards to non GM block, Perhaps Ilmor did not want to trust their repetition and supply chain to a smaller company? That would make sense to me.

Still not sure if they are ls3 or ls7 heads, 4 bolt or 6 bolt? probably 4 bolt ls3?

Sorry if the questions I asked were not not the "right" or expected questions. I'm probably a bit more informed and involved in the ls platform than the average customer. Currently I have 3 LS engines in the garage 1 is a marine turbo build. I'm a fan of LS engines to say the least. Hell Im fan of Ilmor in general, I like the marine stuff, I used to love Indy racing

I thought all of my questions were valid, I only asked cause of my interest in the 570.

Btw Nice bat boat

The link was the best source of information that I knew of; just trying to help. The engine has evolved significantly from what was presented at Miami last year, but I do not have all the technical details. The best thing that I can say is to call Ilmor at (734) 456-3600, and ask for Jessica Gamarra. She is the PR rep, and will provide as much information as she is authorized to. Tell her that Chuck told you to call.

My expectations on the discussion of this engine is based more on how the implementation of a readily-available LS-based high-performance package will change the market. Even Volvo Penta has switched over to LS engines, and is getting better performance numbers than they did from either the 8.2 or 8.1 engines. Mercury is the only production builder using the classic big-block platform. I see that as a mistake on Mercury's part, given the current demands for fuel efficiency and emissions. If nothing else, there is a 150-200 pound weight advantage built into every LS engine, not to mention variable cam timing and updated engine architecture.

Thanks for the comment on the BatBoat; it's been a labor of love.

This is what I was eluding to with inroads to mercs core business. The BBC is great and makes sense above 600hp where the New small blocks will not be particle with out forced induction. I think in 350-600hp today's small blocks make a lot of sense, and have GM's R&D going for them, I think mercury has to see that the volvos ls package is going to be a serious thread to all there v8's up the 8.2l HO. While they maybe down a little on torque, They are reliable to at least another 1000rpm which allows for more gear reduction. I would like to prop shaft torque, and power sweeps for say 0-3500 "prop rpm". that would interesting.

Hey Prof,

The heads are modified LS3—modified in house at Ilmor. All of the internals are made by Ilmor or built to Ilmor specs by the company's vendors. What comes from GM are the block and heads, and again those are modified. That's about it.

That's all I can say now ... but you can read more in my feature on speedonthewater.com, which will go live next Tuesday.