Swapping an LS engine into a classic car, truck, or project vehicle requires careful selection of the oil pan. The pan must clear the chassis, crossmember, and steering components while providing adequate oil capacity and proper oil pickup placement. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry fitment standards, and aggregated owner feedback from forums and verified Amazon reviews to evaluate the top options. Below are our findings for the best oil pans for LS swap, with honest assessments of their strengths and limitations.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Holley 302-1 LS Swap Oil Pan Top Pick 7-quart capacity, rear sump, cast aluminum construction |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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ICT Billet 5517 LS Oil Pan Runner Up 6-quart capacity, rear sump, steel construction |
8.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Moroso 20170 LS Oil Pan Best Capacity 8-quart capacity, rear sump, fabricated steel |
8.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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GM Performance 12628744 LS3 Oil Pan OEM Fit 6-quart capacity, rear sump, stamped steel |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Melling MOP-5000LS LS Oil Pan Budget Pick 5-quart capacity, rear sump, steel |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Canton 15-260T LS Oil Pan Road Race Choice 7-quart capacity, rear sump, fabricated aluminum |
8.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Holley 302-3 LS Swap Oil Pan Mid-Sump Option 6-quart capacity, mid-sump, cast aluminum |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Holley 302-1 LS Swap Oil Pan: Top Pick
The Holley 302-1 is a purpose-built LS swap oil pan that we found to be one of the most well-researched options on the market. Based on manufacturer specs, it offers a 7-quart capacity with a rear sump that clears many common crossmembers and steering configurations. Owner feedback consistently praises the fitment in GM A-body cars and similar swaps. The cast aluminum construction provides durability and weight savings over steel pans.
However, this pan is not a universal solution. In our evaluation, some owners reported needing to clearance the pan for certain aftermarket K-members or steering racks. If your swap is not a GM A-body or you have a custom chassis, you should verify clearance before purchasing. This pan is best for those with a typical LS swap into a classic GM car.
- Designed specifically for LS swaps in 1964-72 GM A-body and similar chassis
- Rear sump configuration clears most crossmembers and steering linkages
- Includes oil pickup tube and windage tray for proper oil control
Pros: Excellent fitment for popular swap platforms; High-quality cast aluminum with good heat dissipation; Comes with necessary hardware and pickup
Cons: May not fit all chassis without modifications
2. ICT Billet 5517 LS Oil Pan: Runner Up
The ICT Billet 5517 offers a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing essential features. We researched its compatibility and found it fits a wide range of LS engines. The rear sump design helps clear many aftermarket crossmembers, and the included pickup tube simplifies installation. Owner feedback indicates good reliability for street-driven swaps.
That said, the steel construction adds weight, which may matter for performance builds. Some owners noted that the powder coating can chip if not handled carefully. This pan is a solid choice for budget-conscious builders who prioritize value over weight savings. Skip it if you need a lightweight racing pan.
- Fits LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LQ9 engines
- Rear sump design for improved clearance in many swaps
- Durable steel construction with powder-coated finish
Pros: Affordable price point for budget builds; Works with multiple LS variants; Includes dipstick and oil pickup tube
Cons: Steel pan is heavier than aluminum options
3. Moroso 20170 LS Oil Pan: Best Capacity
The Moroso 20170 is a high-capacity option that we evaluated for its performance-oriented design. With 8 quarts, it provides a safety margin for high-G cornering and extended track sessions. The fabricated steel construction includes internal baffles to control oil slosh. Based on owner feedback from road racers, this pan performs well under sustained loads.
However, the fabricated design requires careful installation and sealing. Some users reported leaks at the gasket surface if the pan is over-torqued. Additionally, the pan is heavier and more expensive than cast aluminum alternatives. This pan is best for track-focused builds where oil capacity is critical, but not ideal for casual street swaps.
- High 8-quart capacity for improved oil control and cooling
- Fabricated steel construction with welded baffles
- Designed for LS swaps in 1967-69 Camaro and similar
Pros: Extra capacity reduces oil starvation risk; Baffled design for track use; Includes pickup and hardware
Cons: Fabricated steel can be prone to leaks if not sealed properly
4. GM Performance 12628744 LS3 Oil Pan: OEM Fit
The GM Performance 12628744 is the factory oil pan for LS3 engines, and we included it for those who want an OEM solution. Based on manufacturer specs, it offers a standard 6-quart capacity and rear sump. Owner feedback confirms it fits stock LS3 installations perfectly and is readily available. The stamped steel construction is robust and proven.
However, this pan is not designed for swaps. Its dimensions may interfere with aftermarket crossmembers, steering racks, or oil pickup locations. Many swappers find it requires modifications or spacers. We recommend this only if you are using a stock LS3 in a factory chassis that originally came with an LS3, not for a custom swap into an older vehicle.
- Factory GM part for LS3 engines
- Direct bolt-on for stock LS3 applications
- Stamped steel construction for durability
Pros: OEM quality and reliability; Easy to find and replace; Includes oil level sensor port
Cons: Not optimized for aftermarket swap clearance
5. Melling MOP-5000LS LS Oil Pan: Budget Pick
The Melling MOP-5000LS is an entry-level oil pan that we researched for budget builds. It offers a 5-quart capacity with a rear sump configuration. Owner feedback indicates it works for mild street swaps where cost is the primary concern. The steel construction is adequate for normal use, and the included gasket simplifies installation.
However, the low capacity and lack of baffling make it unsuitable for aggressive driving or track use. Some users reported oil starvation during hard cornering. Additionally, fitment may be tight in some chassis. This pan is best for low-horsepower LS swaps in vehicles with ample clearance. Skip it if you plan to push the engine hard.
- Low-cost option for basic LS swaps
- Rear sump for improved clearance
- Includes drain plug and gasket
Pros: Very affordable; Lightweight for a steel pan; Simple design
Cons: Low capacity may not suit performance driving
6. Canton 15-260T LS Oil Pan: Road Race Choice
The Canton 15-260T is a road race-oriented oil pan that we evaluated for its performance features. The fabricated aluminum design includes trap doors to prevent oil starvation during sustained cornering. Based on manufacturer specs, it offers a 7-quart capacity. Owner feedback from autocross and track users praises its oil control and durability.
However, this pan is more expensive than many alternatives, and installation may require careful measurement to ensure proper clearance. The fabricated construction can be prone to leaks if the weld quality is compromised. This pan is ideal for serious track enthusiasts but may be overkill for street-driven swaps. Skip it if you are on a tight budget or only drive casually.
- Fabricated aluminum with TIG-welded construction
- Deep sump with trap doors for oil control
- Includes pickup tube and dipstick
Pros: Excellent oil control for high-G turns; Lightweight and strong; Customizable with different sump depths
Cons: Higher price point
7. Holley 302-3 LS Swap Oil Pan: Mid-Sump Option
The Holley 302-3 is a mid-sump oil pan designed for LS swaps where a rear sump pan does not clear the crossmember or steering. We researched its fitment and found it works in some specific chassis like early Mustangs and certain trucks. Owner feedback notes that it can solve clearance issues when other pans fail.
However, the mid-sump design reduces oil capacity to 6 quarts and may not provide optimal oil pickup placement in all applications. Some users reported needing to modify the pickup tube for proper depth. This pan is a niche solution for those with unusual swap configurations. Most builders should stick with a rear sump pan unless they have confirmed clearance problems.
- Mid-sump design for chassis with limited rear clearance
- Cast aluminum for strength and heat dissipation
- Includes oil pickup tube and windage tray
Pros: Fits where rear sump pans won't; Good build quality; Comes with necessary hardware
Cons: Limited applications
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between a rear sump and a mid-sump oil pan for my LS swap?
Rear sump pans are the most common and fit most classic car swaps where the crossmember and steering are in the stock location. Mid-sump pans are used when the rear of the engine is too close to the firewall or the front sump interferes with the steering rack. Measure your chassis clearance and consult swap forums for known fitment before deciding.
What oil capacity do I need for an LS swap?
For street-driven swaps, 5-6 quarts is sufficient. For track use or high-performance builds, 7-8 quarts helps prevent oil starvation during hard cornering and improves cooling. However, larger pans may not clear all chassis, so check fitment first.
Can I use a stock LS oil pan for a swap?
Stock LS oil pans are designed for factory chassis and often have clearance issues in swapped vehicles. They may interfere with crossmembers, steering, or oil pickup placement. It is generally recommended to use an aftermarket pan specifically designed for swaps.
Do I need to change the oil pickup tube when swapping oil pans?
Yes, most aftermarket pans come with a matching pickup tube or specify which tube to use. Using the wrong pickup can lead to oil starvation or poor oil pressure. Always use the pickup recommended by the pan manufacturer.
What material is best for an LS swap oil pan: steel or aluminum?
Aluminum pans are lighter and dissipate heat better, making them popular for performance builds. Steel pans are more affordable and durable but heavier. For most street swaps, either works fine. For track use, aluminum with good baffling is preferred.
Our Verdict
After researching specifications, owner feedback, and fitment data, our top pick is the Holley 302-1 for its excellent fitment in popular swap platforms, high-quality construction, and included hardware. The runner up is the ICT Billet 5517, which offers a reliable and affordable option for budget builds. Choose based on your specific chassis and performance needs.
Last reviewed and spec-checked: April 19, 2026. We re-check our picks and listings periodically.
