Author name: Planet X Performance

A refresher on why direct-injected LT engines build up oil deposits on the intake valves, and how a catch can like Moroso’s universal billet cans, covered by LSX Magazine in October 2025, can reduce that buildup. Moroso says the cans are not legal for sale or use on pollution-controlled vehicles.

Engine Pro’s new Sportsman Series flexplates are built to the SFI 29.1 spec with a thicker chromoly centerplate and a double-welded forged ring gear, backed by matching 8740 chromoly bolt kits. The lineup includes LS plate 32-4600 for 1997-up LS engines with TH350, 700R4 or 4L60E transmissions.

ICT Billet’s new 551975-LSCR-1 billet bracket replaces GM’s cast A/C compressor bracket on Corvette-spacing LS swaps, reusing the stock compressor and 4-rib belt. Its new 551713C510 coil brackets mount 514A and D510C coils on ICT’s billet LS valve covers.

ProCharger’s redesigned centrifugal supercharger systems for 2019-up GM 1500 pickups and 2021-up Tahoe, Yukon, Suburban and Escalade now come in two stages. Both get a larger air-to-air intercooler, revised charge tubing and a blow-through MAF sensor.

Chevy’s 2027 order guide adds option 5WN, a dealer-installed kit with longer underbody strakes and a bracket that locks the existing high wing at a steeper angle, for ZR1 and ZR1X coupes with the Carbon Fiber Aero Package. CorvetteBlogger reports it adds about 300 lb of downforce at 186 mph.

U.S. Patent 12,742,403 B2 covers shutting off cylinders at the rocker arm instead of collapsing the lifter on cam-in-block pushrod engines. It is a granted patent, not a confirmed production part.

GM’s factory LS9 dry-sump oil pump is no longer available. Katech’s billet TrackFlow pump, KAT-A7974, is a newly built replacement with no core required.