How do I convert my LS swap to E85?
What changes: E85's stoichiometric ratio is about 9.7–9.8:1 (gasoline ≈14.7:1), so the engine needs a lot more fuel for the same power. LSX Magazine's conservative BSFC values (0.80 vs 0.55) work out to about 45% more fuel. Many sources quote ~30%; the difference comes from the BSFC assumed. Speedway's chart sizes E85 injectors about 19–25% larger than gasoline for the same hp.
What you need:
- Injectors sized for E85 (see the injector chart), ethanol-compatible (aftermarket injectors use corrosion-resistant materials).
- Fuel pump with enough flow for E85 and rated for ethanol.
- Ethanol-safe lines (e.g., PTFE-lined hose).
- A tune for E85. For pump E85, whose ethanol content varies, add a flex-fuel sensor so the ECU can adjust.
Several factory LS engines were already E85-capable (e.g., L59, LC9, LMG, L9H, L94, L99, L20, L96, L77, LH9 per GM engine tables), which helps with injectors and calibration.
Confidence: medium — sources disagree or are limited; check the sources below.
Related questions
- What size injectors do I need for my LS?
- What fuel pressure does an LS need?
- Best fuel pump for an LS swap
- What size fuel pump do I need?
- How much more fuel does E85 need?
Sources
- General Motors LS-based small-block engine — Engine table — Wikipedia
- What is The Best Fuel Injector For LS? Stock, Aftermarket, Decapped LS Injectors Explained (incl. embedded LS Fuel Injector ID Guide and Sizing Guide) — Speedway Motors
- Fuel For Thought: Sizing Port Fuel Injectors for High-Performance Engines — LSX Magazine