How to Choose the Right Intake Manifold for Your LS & LT Engine

When it comes to getting the most out of your LS or LT engine, the intake manifold plays one of the biggest roles in determining how your engine breathes — and how much horsepower it can make. But with so many designs, materials, and options out there, how do you choose the right intake manifold for your build?

This guide will break down the key differences, benefits, and considerations when shopping for the perfect LS intake manifold or LT intake manifold upgrade.

What Does an Intake Manifold Do?

The intake manifold’s primary job is to distribute air (or air/fuel mixture) evenly to each cylinder. The design — particularly runner length and plenum volume — affects how the engine makes power across the RPM range.

• Short runners + large plenum = better high-RPM horsepower

• Long runners + smaller plenum = stronger low-end torque

Choosing the right manifold is all about matching the airflow characteristics to your engine’s intended use.

Types of LS & LT Intake Manifolds

1. Cathedral Port vs. Rectangular Port (LS Engines)

• Cathedral port manifolds (LS1, LS2, LS6) are known for high velocity and strong low-mid RPM torque.

• Rectangular port manifolds (LS3, LS7, LS9) move more air and favor higher RPM horsepower.

Pro Tip: Always match your intake manifold to your cylinder head port style.

2. Carb-Style Single Plane Manifolds

• Best for race applications and high-RPM power.

• Provide maximum airflow up top but sacrifice some low-end torque.

• Popular in drag racing LS & LT builds.

3. Dual Plane Manifolds

• Balanced airflow with good low-end torque and mid-range power.

• Great for street-driven cars and truck builds.

• Perfect for LS swap projects that need drivability with performance.

4. EFI-Specific Intake Manifolds

• Designed for electronic fuel injection.

• Can include larger throttle body openings, optimized runner lengths, and provisions for fuel rails.

• Common in both LS and LT performance upgrades.

5. High-Rise & Tunnel Ram Intakes

• Provide extreme airflow for race-only applications.

• Best for engines with aggressive camshafts, ported heads, and big power goals.

• Not ideal for daily drivers, but unbeatable on the track.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

1. Intended Use – Street car? Drag racer? Daily driver? Your intake choice should match how you use the vehicle.

2. RPM Range – Choose runner length and plenum size based on whether you want torque or horsepower.

3. Cylinder Heads – Always ensure your manifold matches your head port design (cathedral or rectangular).

4. Fuel System – EFI vs. carb setups may require different intake styles.

5. Clearance – Some high-rise manifolds won’t fit under factory hoods. Measure twice!

Popular LS & LT Intake Manifold Upgrades

• LS1/LS6 Cathedral Port Intakes – Great for swaps and budget builds.

• LS3/L92 Rectangular Port Intakes – Excellent all-around performance upgrade.

• LT1/LT4 Intake Manifolds – High-flow factory designs with strong aftermarket support.

• Aftermarket Performance Intakes – Brands like Holley, Edelbrock, and FAST make manifolds optimized for specific builds.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Intake Manifold

The best intake manifold for your LS or LT depends on your goals:

• For street performance – dual plane or cathedral port intakes are a solid choice.

• For track and drag racing – single plane or high-rise tunnel rams maximize airflow.

• For modern EFI builds – performance EFI intakes provide great balance and drivability.

At Top Street Performance, we carry a wide range of LS intake manifolds and LT performance intake systems designed to help you unlock the full potential of your engine. Whether you’re upgrading your Camaro, Corvette, Silverado, or planning an LS swap project, we’ve got the right intake to match your build.

Shop LS & LT Intake Manifolds Now and give your engine the airflow it deserves.