The 4.8-liter V8 GM LR4 engine was produced by the American concern from 1998 to 2007 and was installed on the Chevrolet Tahoe SUV in the back of the GMT 800 and the Yukon similar to it. This engine was also installed on Silverado and Sierra pickups, as well as Express and Savana minibuses.
Vortec family: LR4, LM7, LY2, LY5, LFA, L92, L86, L83, L87.
Specifications
| Production years | 1998-2007 |
| Displacement, cc | 4806 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 255 – 285 |
| Torque output, Nm | 385 – 400 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V8 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 96 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83 |
| Compression ratio | 9.4 |
| Features | OHV |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Chevrolet Tahoe 2003) — city — highway — combined |
17.7 9.9 12.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~450 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Chevrolet Express 2 (GMT610) in 2003 – 2006;
- Chevrolet Silverado 1 (GMT800) in 1998 – 2007;
- Chevrolet Tahoe 2 (GMT820) in 1999 – 2006;
- GMC Savana 2 (GMT610) in 2003 – 2006;
- GMC Sierra 2 (GMT800) in 1998 – 2007;
- GMC Yukon 2 (GMT820) in 1999 – 2006.
Disadvantages of the GM LR4 engine
- The key to trouble-free engine operation is the cleanliness of the radiators and the condition of the water pump;
- Plastic tees burst from overheating, leaks of lubricant and antifreeze appear;
- And the use of low-quality oils leads to rapid wear of the camshaft liners;
- The weak points of the unit also include ignition coils, a gasoline pump and an adsorber.
Frequently asked questions about the GM LR4
How much power does the GM LR4 make?
The GM LR4 develops 255 - 285 hp and 385 - 400 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the GM LR4 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the GM LR4 have a timing belt or chain?
The GM LR4 uses a timing chain.
Is the GM LR4 turbocharged?
No, the GM LR4 is naturally aspirated.
Does the GM LR4 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the GM LR4 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the GM LR4 last?
The typical lifespan of the GM LR4 is ~450 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the GM LR4?
Chevrolet Tahoe 2003: city 17.7, highway 9.9, combined 12.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the GM LR4 installed on?
Chevrolet Express 2 (GMT610) in 2003 - 2006; Chevrolet Silverado 1 (GMT800) in 1998 - 2007; Chevrolet Tahoe 2 (GMT820) in 1999 - 2006; GMC Savana 2 (GMT610) in 2003 - 2006; GMC Sierra 2 (GMT800) in 1998 - 2007; GMC Yukon 2 (GMT820) in 1999 - 2006.
What are the common problems of the GM LR4?
The key to trouble-free engine operation is the cleanliness of the radiators and the condition of the water pump. Plastic tees burst from overheating, leaks of lubricant and antifreeze appear. All known problems.





