The LS engine platform has earned a legendary status among performance enthusiasts due to its power, reliability, and versatility. Whether for racing, off-roading, or daily driving, the LS engine’s adaptability has made it a top choice for engine swaps and custom builds. However, one of the most crucial components that often goes unnoticed is the LS accessory drive kit. This system is essential for integrating key accessories like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor, ensuring everything runs smoothly and fits properly within your engine bay.
Understanding the LS Accessory Drive Kit
What is an Accessory Drive Kit?
An LS accessory drive kit includes the brackets, pulleys, tensioners, belts, and hardware required to mount and operate engine-driven accessories. These accessories are vital for the engine’s operation and driver comfort, including the alternator for electrical power, power steering pump for ease of control, and A/C compressor for cabin cooling.
Why It’s Important
The right accessory drive setup ensures proper alignment, eliminates belt slippage, and reduces wear on engine components. Without it, the accessories might not operate correctly, causing electrical problems, overheating, or steering difficulties. Additionally, a well-designed kit simplifies installation and improves aesthetics under the hood.
Types of LS Accessory Drive Kits
Front Drive System Options
There are multiple configurations for LS accessory drive kits based on the engine model and intended vehicle setup. These include:
- High-Mount Kits: Designed to place accessories higher on the engine, ideal for vehicles with low-mounted steering boxes or tight engine bays.
- Mid-Mount Kits: These place accessories in the middle of the engine block height and are commonly used for better weight distribution and engine bay clearance.
- Low-Mount Kits: Place accessories lower, closer to the crankshaft. These are preferred for performance applications and lower center of gravity.
Complete vs. Partial Kits
Some kits come fully loaded with all brackets, pulleys, belts, and accessories, while others are partial kits intended for those reusing existing components. Builders should choose based on their budget and how much of their original LS components they want to retain.
Compatibility and Fitment
Engine-Specific Kits
There are different LS engines LS1, LS3, LS6, LS7, and LSX variants with slight differences in block dimensions, accessory mounting holes, and crank pulley spacing. It’s important to choose a kit specifically designed for your engine type to ensure proper fitment and function.
Vehicle Fitment Considerations
Not all kits fit every vehicle. When doing an LS swap, clearance with the hood, radiator, steering components, and frame rails must be considered. Many manufacturers provide measurements or templates to help verify fitment before purchase.
Popular Brands Offering LS Accessory Drive Kits
Holley
Holley offers high-quality kits designed for performance and reliability. Their mid-mount systems are particularly favored for compact engine bays and balanced weight distribution. Holley kits often include premium components and are known for their clean look and easy installation.
Dirty Dingo
Known for affordability and adjustability, Dirty Dingo kits are often used in budget LS swap projects. They offer sliding brackets that allow for flexible placement of accessories, which can be useful in unique swap applications.
ICT Billet
ICT Billet offers a wide range of LS engine accessory brackets and complete kits. Their parts are made from billet aluminum, ensuring strength and durability. They also offer kits that are compatible with factory GM components, helping save on costs.
Vintage Air
For builders focused on aesthetics and air conditioning integration, Vintage Air kits combine polished finishes with well-thought-out mounting solutions. These are often used in show cars and restomods.
Key Components of an LS Accessory Drive Kit
- Alternator Bracket and Pulley: Ensures the alternator is securely mounted and aligned with the drive belt system.
- Power Steering Pump and Bracket: Helps maintain proper hydraulic pressure for responsive steering.
- AC Compressor Mount: Needed if air conditioning is desired; requires precise positioning to avoid interference.
- Belt Tensioner: Maintains the correct tension on the serpentine belt to prevent slipping or wear.
- Crank and Water Pump Pulleys: Drive all accessories and are essential for cooling and charging systems.
Installation Tips for LS Accessory Kits
Check Belt Alignment
Misaligned pulleys can cause belts to wear out quickly or even snap. During installation, ensure every pulley is in line and that the belt travels smoothly without rubbing against any brackets or engine components.
Use Quality Hardware
Always use the correct bolts, washers, and torque specs provided by the kit manufacturer. Avoid reusing old or rusted bolts, as they can cause mounting failures over time.
Mock-Up First
Before final installation, mock up all components to test clearance, especially if the kit includes a power steering pump or AC compressor. This step prevents surprises once the engine is in the car.
Verify Belt Length
Serpentine belts vary in size depending on your setup. Some kits specify the exact belt needed, while others may require custom measurement using a flexible belt tool or string.
Benefits of Using a Complete LS Accessory Drive Kit
Time-Saving
Instead of sourcing individual brackets and pulleys, a complete kit simplifies the process. Everything fits together and is designed for optimal performance and fitment.
Clean Aesthetic
These kits provide a much cleaner engine bay look, especially when designed with symmetrical mounting and polished finishes.
Reliability and Performance
Engine reliability greatly increases when accessories are properly mounted and tensioned. You avoid common issues like overheating, power steering failure, or battery drain.
An LS accessory drive kit is more than just a collection of brackets and pulleys it’s an essential part of any LS engine build or swap. Choosing the right kit ensures that your accessories function reliably, fit within your engine bay, and contribute to the overall performance and appearance of your build. Whether you’re working on a classic car restomod or a high-performance street machine, investing in a quality LS accessory drive system can save time, reduce stress, and result in a better driving experience. Take the time to research your options, match the kit to your engine and vehicle, and enjoy the reliability and performance that comes with a properly installed LS accessory drive kit.