Here at LSX Magazine, we love full-motor builds just as much, if not more, than the next guy. And while all-forged engines with huge power adders really get us going, there’s just something infinitely more exciting to us when it’s all being done on a stock bottom end. There’s just something about stock bottom ends that doesn’t calm us down, ya know? It’s like the gladiator sport of engine building–or not building, as the case may be.

As much as we all like to deny it, sometime we’re just looking for some good old fashioned automotive gore–and that’s why stock bottom end builds are always so thrilling. They may or may not be on the verge of self destruction at any given moment. For these reasons and many, many more, we’re hosting a dyno shoot out for stock bottom end vehicles only at this year’s Holley LS Fest in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Project Corn Star ready to turn the rollers with its stock bottom end LS1. We’re getting ready to find out just how much abuse the factory LS1 on our 2002 Camaro can take.

The event is going down Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 at 2:30 p.m. and is open to all stock bottom end motors in any chassis. The goal is simple–and obvious–make more horsepower than the other guy. To keep things fair, we are offering two classes: power adder and naturally aspirated. Other than that, it’s a lot like the rules to Fight Club (only with less rules). Rule 1: You don’t talk about stock bottom end shootout. Rule 2: You DON’T talk about stock bottom end shootout. Rule 3: There are no rules (except having a stock bottom end of course), and rule 1 and 2 are flexible (tell your friends). That’s it.

Just in case you’re out there hoping to exploit a loop hole, a stock bottom end is defined as a GM produced crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons. If it was produced by mother GM and came off of a vehicle assembly line, then it’s gravy. If not, save it. Bonus points will be awarded to any build that gives up the ghost on the dyno–though the bonus points count for nothing, so probably shoot to win.

Sloppy Mechanics’ 1,000 rwhp 6.0-liter with a stock bottom end. So far, this is one of the most capable SBE setups we’ve ever seen. Think you can do better? Show us at this year’s LS Fest Bowling Green.

So, if you think you have what it takes to take home top bragging rights, hit us up at [email protected]. We’ll also be taking entries on the spot if that’s more your style, but we do have a limited amount of time on the dyno, so if you’re on the list you’ll have a better chance of running. We’ve seen first hand what stock bottom LS engines are capable and now we want to see who does it the best.

Not only will the winner take home bragging rights, they’ll earn themselves a feature in LSX Magazine. So turn your combos up. Tell your friends. And we’ll see you there.