Lingenfelter Performance Engineering and Current Performance have teamed up to take a Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 pickup and make it much more powerful. The truck came from the factory with a 308 horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 engine. Lingenfelter makes a supercharger kit for that V-6 engine that will push the power to 450 horsepower.
Engine Swap for Ultimate Performance
The owner of this Colorado truck wanted more, so the two companies pulled out the V-6 and swapped in an LT4 V-8 engine. The result was 534 horsepower and 526 pounds-feet of torque at the rear wheels. The power is helped by an LT4 supercharger upgrade kit. This engine swap is a significant upgrade, as the LT4 V-8 engine is known for its robust performance and is commonly found in high-performance vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and the Camaro ZL1.
The LT4 engine is a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 that features advanced technologies such as direct injection, variable valve timing, and a 1.7L Eaton R1740 TVS supercharger. These features contribute to its impressive power output and efficiency. The engine swap not only increases the truck’s power but also enhances its overall driving dynamics, making it a formidable off-road and on-road performer.
Considerations and Costs
Keep in mind those power numbers are despite the large wheels and tires and other mechanical components said to eat up about 25 percent of the power and torque. This means that the actual engine output is even higher, but some of that power is lost due to the drivetrain and other factors. The large wheels and tires are essential for off-road performance, providing better traction and stability on rough terrains.
All in, the components for the truck cost $60,585 assuming a base Colorado ZR2. That price also doesn’t count the labor, wheels, tires, and exhaust. The labor involved in such an engine swap is extensive and requires skilled technicians to ensure everything is installed correctly and functions as intended. Additionally, the custom wheels and tires can add several thousand dollars to the overall cost, depending on the brand and specifications chosen.
The exhaust system is another critical component that can significantly impact the truck’s performance and sound. A high-performance exhaust system can improve the engine’s efficiency, increase power output, and provide a more aggressive exhaust note. However, these systems can also be quite expensive, adding to the overall cost of the build.
The collaboration between Lingenfelter Performance Engineering and Current Performance has resulted in a Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 that is far more powerful and capable than its factory version. The engine swap to an LT4 V-8, combined with the supercharger upgrade kit, has transformed this truck into a high-performance machine with 534 horsepower and 526 pounds-feet of torque at the rear wheels. While the cost of the components and additional upgrades can be substantial, the result is a unique and powerful vehicle that stands out both on and off the road.
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