The typical firing order for Chevrolet’s 6.0-liter V8s is 1-8-7-2-6-5-4-3. This sequence applies to the common GM 6.0L engines found in trucks and SUVs today.
In more detail, the 6.0-liter family includes both the modern LS-based designs and the earlier Vortec 6000 variants. The firing order describes the order in which each cylinder receives a spark as the crankshaft rotates, a crucial factor for smooth operation, torque delivery, and engine longevity. While the ignition system may be coil-on-plug or coil packs depending on the model year, the sequence itself remains consistent across these engines.
Firing order for GM 6.0L V8s
Below is the standard sequence used by most 6.0L GM V8s. It is helpful to know when wiring ignition components, diagnosing misfires, or following a service manual.
- Cylinder 1 fires first
- Cylinder 8 fires second
- Cylinder 7 fires third
- Cylinder 2 fires fourth
- Cylinder 6 fires fifth
- Cylinder 5 fires sixth
- Cylinder 4 fires seventh
- Cylinder 3 fires eighth
Concluding: The sequence 1-8-7-2-6-5-4-3 is applied across the 6.0L GM V8 lineup, but you should always verify against your specific model year and ignition system in the official shop or repair manual, as wiring layouts can vary slightly by generation.
Model variations
LS-based 6.0L V8s (Gen IV and newer)
In the LS-family 6.0L engines commonly found in late-model trucks and performance cars, the firing order remains 1-8-7-2-6-5-4-3. These engines typically use coil-on-plug ignition and manage spark distribution electronically, but the firing sequence is unchanged across this family.
Vortec 6000 family (LM7/LQ4 and similar variants)
The Vortec 6000 variants—older iron-block 6.0L designs used in earlier Silverado/Sierra generations—also follow the 1-8-7-2-6-5-4-3 firing order. Even as the block material and intake/valve gear differ from the LS, the ignition sequence is the same to ensure proper phasing and balance.
Summary: For Chevrolet’s 6.0L V8 engines, the standard firing order is 1-8-7-2-6-5-4-3, a pattern that spans both LS-based and Vortec 6000 iterations. Always confirm with the vehicle’s service manual for exact cylinder numbering and wiring layout when performing ignition work or diagnostics.