How does the engine RPM of the LS1 compare to the O-540?
The LS1 will happily operate at higher RPM than the 540. What makes the difference is that the O-540 as a reciprocating engine which has a long stroke and monstrously big and heavy pistons. The LS1 runs at a higher RPM than does the O-540, but the rods and pistons are so very much smaller and lighter that the certified engine pistons. Put this into perspective, only one piston from a 0-540 weighs nearly what an entire set of LS1 pistons weighs. The lighter pistons of the LS1 in this smooth running and well balanced engine are not creating a lot of wear and tear in the engine. The LS1 engine is capable of a lot more RPM with no problems at all. Chevrolet has tested these engines unmercifully. The engine RPM range that we advocate using for aircraft use is really quite mild for the LS1. We like to see takeoff RPM’s around 3900-4000, not because more is hard on the engine, but because this is all you need for awesome performance and fantastic climb rates when combined with the Geared Driv
