In a hurry? Check out our top supercharger picks by vehicle year below

**note all dealers are subject to minimum* MSRP set *by the manufacturer so no one can undercut price**

2019-2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 Whipple W185RF 3.0L Intercooled Supercharger Kit

Dyno-proven to produce more horsepower and torque than any other supercharger throughout the entire RPM range
Improved acceleration & fuel economy
1-Year Limited Warranty
Specifically designed for use on all 2019, 2020, & 2021 5.3L Chevrolet Silverado 1500 models

$7,045 on eBay

$7,295 on WhippleSuperchargers.com

2014-2018 Procharger High Output Intercooled Supercharger Kit with P-1SC-1

Increased Horsepower by up to 50%
One-Year Supercharger Warranty
P-1SC-1 supercharger with Large 2-Core Intercooler
Fits 2014-2018 5.3L Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Check Price on eBay

2007-2013 Whipple W140AX 2.3L Intercooled Supercharger Competition Kit

Increases of Up to 85% More Horsepower Over Stock
Increases of Up to 75% More Torque Over Stock
Oversized Air-to-Water Intercooler
One Year Manufacturer Warranty
Requires 91 Octane or Higher
Fits 2007-2010 & 2011-2013 5.3L Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Models

Check Price on eBay

1999-2006 Whipple W140AX 2.3L Intercooled Supercharger Kit

Increases Horsepower & Torque without compromising Fuel Efficiency
Includes Manifold Assembly & Hand-Held Tuner
Covered by a Limited Powertrain Warranty
Fits All 2004-2006 5.3L Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Models

Check Price on AmericanTrucks.com

In-depth review of our top picks for Chevy Silverado 5.3 superchargers by vehicle year
1. 2019-2021: Whipple W185RF 3.0L Intercooled Supercharger Kit
2. 2014-2018: Procharger High Output Intercooled Supercharger Kit with P-1SC-1
3. 1999-2006 & 2007-2013: Whipple W140AX 2.3L Intercooled Supercharger Competition Kit
How much does it cost to put a supercharger on a Chevy Silverado?
How much horsepower can you get out of a 5.3 LS?
How much horsepower does a supercharger add to a Chevy Silverado?
How much horsepower does a Flashpaq tuner add to a 5.3 Silverado?
What is the best computer for a 5.3 Silverado?
What is the best tuner for Chevy Silverado 1500?
How can I get more power out of my 5.3 Silverado?
What is the best tuner for a 5.3 Chevy Silverado?
Bottom Line
Citations

In-depth review of our top picks for Chevy Silverado 5.3 superchargers by vehicle year

2019-2021: Whipple W185RF 3.0L Intercooled Supercharger Kit Review

Overall Impression: This Whipple W185RF 3.0L black Intercooled Supercharger Kit will take your Silverado’s engine power to a whole new level. This high-performance package delivers efficient power generation which improves throttle response and overall performance. CE can confirm that this system has been dyno-tested to produce more horsepower than any other supercharger across the entire RPM range.

PURCHASE AT AMERICANTRUCKS.COM

Details: The W185RF 3.0L Intercooled Supercharger System is designed to perform. It comes with a twin-screw supercharger unit, large aluminum intercoolers and pulley. Also included are all necessary fasteners and wiring. In addition, the system includes an aluminum high flow intake manifold with high flow water system, billet and adjustable idler plates, as well as an upgraded spring-loaded tensioner. The assembly is finished in durable black for a distinctive look under the hood.

Based on our observations this W185RF 3.0L Intercooled Supercharger Kit from Whipple offers higher volumetric efficiency and better air flow characteristics for improved performance when compared to the other brands we’ve tried. By minimizing parasitic losses, the integrated bypass valve increases your engine’s efficiency. This reduces the power required to turn the rotors, which we noticed at the pump – considerably improved fuel economy.

Luckily for newer Silverado owners, this generation of all-new Whipple systems enjoys the benefit of being equipped with the most recent technology. It crushes on power output compared to any other positive displacement supercharger systems on the market. We were impressed and got a little carried away just rippin it on the highway.

Warranty: Whipple provides a limited warranty against manufacturing defects for this W185RF3.0L Black Intercooled Turbocharger Kit for a period 1 year starting from the date of purchase.
Applicable Vehicles: Supercharger Kit by Whipple is designed to be used on all 2019-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 models.

Expected gains: In the past we’ve seen Whipple’s Supercharger System for Older GM 6.2 liter L86 V8 and 5.3 liter L83 L8 V8 Models show power jumps of just over 150 hp. This was consistent with our 2020 Silverado as well, and why we love Whipple at Car Engineer! Very reliable brand with great coverage.

Installation Info: Pretty straightforward, though it took CE all day to complete. Our view is that professional installation or mechanical expertise is required.

Conclusion: The price tag on this Whipple supercharger is reasonable. It’s not secret that installing *any* supercharger on your truck is expensive, but we think if you’re investing in your vehicle you go big or go home. At this price you’ll be happy with the quality and performance provides. Don’t forget this system is complex and well manicured – you’re getting an intercooler, dual-pass heat exchanger and high flow intake manifold as well along with an adjuster idler system. You definitely get more than a run of the mill supercharger for the price.

Whipple is a high-quality option for increasing the power of your 2019-2020 Silverado/Sierra with a 5.3L, or 6.2L engine. You just have to be willing and able to pay for the quality and power.

BONUS: *CE Insider Tip*
This product does not currently have a customer guide at AmericanTrucks.com. So you can be the first to make one and send it in to them and if they approve it they’ll hook you up with a coupon code worth 50% of the purchase price of the part up to $200! This wasn’t an option when we installed it otherwise we definitely would’ve filmed it/written up the literature. Great deal since you’re doing it anyway!

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMERICANTRUCKS.COM

2014-2018: Procharger High Output Intercooled Supercharger Kit with P-1SC-1 Review

Gains: This ATI / Procharger 3 Core Air-to–Air Intercooled High Output Supercharger system with a P-1SC-1 Head Unit and stock 6 rib pulley set for the 2014-2018 GM Truck/SUV 5.3L will give you a 45%+ horsepower increase on only 8 psi boost! This complete air-to–air intercooled supercharger system is for 2014-18 GM trucks or SUVs with the 5.3L or 6.2L LT1 engines. The HO Intercooled system features a shared drive design for the P-1SC-1 self-contained supercharger. It also comes standard with a large 3-core intercooler. We consistently saw a reliable 45-50% increase in our 2017 Silverado’s horsepower with only 8 psi and factory-injected fuel injectors on an otherwise stock engine that runs on regular gas.
PURCHASE AT AMERICANTRUCKS.COM

Package & Install: This kit includes everything you need for a complete install. All mounting brackets for your blower, pulleys and belts, intercooler, all tubing, fittings, clamps, and oil for the self-contained lubrication system are included. It’s not necessary to modify the system or buy any additional tools. This installation should take you less than one day if your mechanical skills are moderate to advanced. If you have any intrepidation there – hire a professional for installation (try to find someone for $50-75/hour if you can). CE was able to install ours in the garage over the weekend.

ProCharger’s self-contained, proven supercharger oiling system eliminates the need to connect to the engine’s oil supply or run external oil lines. This allows for a simpler installation and provides superior lubrication as well as lower supercharger oil temperatures.

Performance & Tech: This ProCharger addition not only produced the greatest power gains with an extremely high efficiency comparable to the P-1X model but also delivered the best performance curve. Drivers can choose from 3 pre-set performance modes and an optional touch screen display with an intelligent control system. You can also get personalized display screens or data logging.

This system builds on the advantages of centrifugal design and delivers higher compressor efficiency with screw blowers. It also uses the most efficient intercooling and avoids heat transfer due to engine-top mounting or exhaust interface. After putting it to the test, we agree with others that air-to–air intercooling provides superior cooling and reliability for street use than air-to–water intercoolers.

We feel that these advantages make the technology best-in-class. It delivers the coolest, most consistent, highest power, and the best fuel economy from what we’ve seen. ProCharger systems produce far more power per psi of boost than air-water-intercooled positive displacement supercharger systems for the 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado models. They have a wider operating range than PD blowers and are easier to upgrade. This ProCharger model can be used in stock or modified applications and can support up to 825 horsepower!

The patented programmable design provides immediate response even at low engine rpm. There is no boost falloff or turbo lag at higher engine rpm. You can also select competition mode to increase performance. Owners can also use the touch screen for locking the supercharger in low-ratio mode or a personal mode. Don’t take our word for it – check out this quick video from Force Automotive showing off the kit on a 2014:

Reliability & Warranty: Designed and made in the USA, this supercharger has billet impellers and rugged gear boxes. The variable ratio transmission is extremely durable and features a rugged dry hybrid drive. Programmable boost is provided by the transmission. ProCharger offers a 3-year optional supercharger warranty, which has been proven in more than 4 years of rigorous R&D and performance testing. ProCharger’s network of dealers backs the supercharger system.

Conclusion: The ProCharger supercharger system is the most reliable and powerful supercharger kit available for Silverado models from 2014-2018. With other modifications, the Intercooler ProCharger system can reliably increase horsepower by 50-85%, while also keeping your vehicle emissions legal and able to use regular pump gas. Intercooled ProCharger superchargers will provide the greatest increase in horsepower or torque of any supercharger system for this year range. ProCharger technology provides extremely low charge air temperatures which allow for better engine life and protect your motor from detonation. ProCharger systems have been designed using a deep understanding of supercharging physics and are built to the highest standards right in good ol’ USA.

ProCharger models are the first and only gear-driven centrifugal Superchargers that feature self-lubrication and at the time had the most advanced technology in the industry. These self-contained gear-driven superchargers produce more power and run cooler than any of the competitors. For outstanding strength and performance, the impellers are made with aircraft grade 7075 T-6 aluminum alloy. ProCharger billet impellers and compressor housings are constructed with the highest quality material. This allows for higher step-up ratios than other brands, and higher boost levels and better overall performance than any other products on the market. On top of that, we love that ProCharger is the only one to offer a 3-year warranty, it makes us rest easy at night.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMERICANTRUCKS.COM

1999-2006 & 2007-2013: Whipple W140AX 2.3L Intercooled Supercharger Competition Kit Review

The Gist: After installing our Whipple W140AX Intercooled Supercharger on our 2008, we saw an increase in horsepower and torque of up to 75% across all RPM ranges. This Whipple Supercharger will provide a powerful boost to your acceleration and top power. The W140AX is the model number but there are two separate fittings – one for model years 2007-2013 and one for 1999-2006 as these are different generations of Chevy Silverado engines, so make sure to double check your particular vehicle’s fitment. We only tested on our 2008 5.3L Silverado but have seen elsewhere that you can expect similar gains in power.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FOR 2007-2013 SILVERADO MODELS AT AMERICANTRUCKS.COM

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FOR 1999-2006 SILVERADO MODELS AT AMERICANTRUCKS.COM

What’s included: This Whipple Supercharger Kit includes the W140AX 2.5L twin-screw supercharger, an aluminum high-flow intake manifold, an oversized air to water intercooler, and high-flow fuel injectors. For easier tuning, a SCT Flash Programmer with Whipple calibration can also be included.

Tech: This supercharger, which is twin-screw and extremely efficient, significantly outflows other 1.9L root-type superchargers. The top mount Whipple design is cooler than upside-down superchargers that trap engine heat, causing higher temperatures and loss of power. The discharge-down design of Whipples allows for lower pressure loss, which results in more power at lower boost levels. This Whipple Supercharger uses a unique 3×5 rotor combination for an impressive increase in airflow below the curve. It is also more efficient than any other 4×6 combo. The Whipple Superchargers have a huge intercooled air bypass system that allows for a significant reduction in burst knock as well as incredible fuel economy.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FOR 2007-2013 SILVERADO MODELS AT AMERICANTRUCKS.COM

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FOR 1999-2006 SILVERADO MODELS AT AMERICANTRUCKS.COM

How much does it cost to put a supercharger on a Chevy Silverado?

The price for top of the line Chevy Silverado 5.3 L supercharger kits range from about $6,500-$9,000 depending on the year (2000-2021), and probably at least another $600 or more in labor if you can’t perform the installation yourself (~$75/hr). The installation is considered relatively straightforward for a skilled mechanic, however it is time consuming and will likely take all day to complete.

The reason superchargers run at a high cost is due to the complex design involved in making these specialized pieces of equipment. The parts must be able to maintain similar qualities to the original stock unit, which forces different cars and trucks to require different superchargers.

The superchargers listed in the beginning of this article are specifically designed for Chevy Silverado 1500 5.3L Vortec engines, but are generally interchangeable with other GM trucks and SUV’s that have a 5.3 L V8 engine installed (CE tip: always double check your vehicle fitment before you buy!). As previously mentioned, aftermarket superchargers are expensive because of each model’s high customization & specificity, which is necessary for the vehicle to perform properly. As such, Silverados with either a smaller or bigger engine than the 5.3L will not be compatible with the superchargers recommended earlier.

Due to that complexity – designing, manufacturing, and testing for quality can literally take years which leads to a significantly long timeframe to eventually produce a reputable finished supercharger. These stages of the manufacturing process ultimately get buried into the retail price. So you can understand how a custom-built product designed to produce 65,000 RPM can be tough on your wallet. However at Car Engineer, we think it’s worth it!

Another element that impacts price is general supply/demand dynamics. Everything seems to be in short supply since COVID started, and car parts that originate in China & other areas abroad are far from the exception. In addition to the tight supply environment, depending on the year and make/model – certain specific vehicles may simply have less demand which can make a supercharger that much more expensive and accounts for that large range of $6-9k for this specific truck.

How much horsepower can you get out of a 5.3 LS?

A stock 5.3L LS can usually produce 270-355 hp depending on the year (horsepower has dramatically improved over time – 2014 and later models are factory rated at 355 horsepower & and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 RPM). Source URL

These engines are extremely reliable and have made it easy to swap them into other vehicles due to their compact dimensions and simplicity. Because of their simplicity and reliability, the LS engines have earned a reputation for being the most affordable way to produce large horsepower. These engines also have a reputation as the most reliable because of their availability and the sturdy blocks that can withstand extreme pressure. A weekend racer can take a 5.3L junkyard V8 with 300,000 km and install a turbocharger or supercharger setup. This will give them a reliable 600-700 horsepower. Source URL

How much horsepower does a supercharger add to a Chevy Silverado?

Superchargers work on the same principle as the above and can increase horsepower and torque output of any Silverado pickup truck. The supercharger is also connected directly to the crankshaft pulley via a belt so that it works when the engine is running. This means that throttle and boost response is always instantaneous and linear across the RPM range. The compressor wheel will not take any time to spool up, which can be a problem when dealing with turbocharged engines. Source URL

It depends on which system you choose, but Silverado supercharger systems at entry level can produce a minimum 40% increase in horsepower and torque over stock. This equates to an approximate gain of 100-125 horsepower. Systems that are more advanced can produce up to 70% more power and have a higher boost level, which will allow for over 500 ponies. Source URL

Superchargers are known as the “ultimate bolt-on”. They are easier to install than other forced induction options, and they add horsepower to your build. As long as you have the tools and knowledge, you can get one of these bolt-ons for yourself. Source URL

The extra power and torque will make it easier to pull heavy trailers and other heavy vehicles with less throttle input. There is also the familiar feeling of pushing the throttle and accelerating forward at a meteorite-like rate. Supercharged Silverado can be used to haul heavy loads or simply cruise around town. A supercharger will require premium gas to run. Failure to do so will lead to detonation. Source URL

How much horsepower does a Flashpaq tuner add to a 5.3 Silverado?

Flashpaq for 2019-2021 GM 1523 – 2847-S

Max gains of 37hp/36tq in 5.3L
Shave .5-seconds off 0-60 times
High-definition, 2.8″ color screen
Pre-loaded with tunes developed specifically for daily driving, towing, and performance
Includes the cost of the ECM Unlock & Overnight return shipping of your ECM to limit downtime to as little as three days

CHECK DISCOUNTED PRICE

A Flashpaq 2847-S can increase horsepower by up to 45 hp. This could be a great option to consider if on a budget before going whole-hog on a supercharger purchase. The difference in price is about 10x (hundreds instead of thousands), and you will realize plenty of performance enhancements with much less effort before even mentioning the cost savings. Superchips is the market leader and offers an industry-best 2-year powertrain warranty.

Now available for 2019-2020 5.3L & 6.2L! Superchips is the most cost-effective solution to your GM Silverado/Sierra performance needs. The Flashpaq handheld tuner is the best and most cost effective option. The flashpaq tuner has the ability to add horsepower and torque to enhance your driving experience. You can tow your boat to the lake, get better fuel mileage on your daily commute, or need speed and performance. Flashpaq is available at an affordable entry-level price, whether you are looking for towing your boat or towing gear, Source URL

What is the best computer for a 5.3 Silverado?

It can be difficult to choose the right power programmer. This review on the Volo VP12 Performance Chip 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will make it easy to know which one to choose. This power programmer is better than any other. After reading this review, you won’t have to search for the right one. Source URL

All of this information should help you to determine which programmer is best for a 5.3 Silverado, or any other truck. Source URL

Superchips 2060 Dashpaq for GM Gas Vehicle is a small 9.5×6.4×3.7-inch device that packs a punch. It is lightweight at just 1.48 pounds. The 2.8-inch color screen display makes it easy to navigate the settings and improves the user experience. Source URL

What is the best tuner for Chevy Silverado 1500?

To splurge, you don’t need to have a lot of money. Take a look at our top-rated products. They are available in a variety of models. The Range Technology product is available in several upgraded features, which are not available in most aftermarket tuners. We focus on tuners that perform well in throttle response, DTC codes, and performance testing. If you are on a tight budget, it is important to consider the right tuner for your truck. This will bring changes to the parameters. The devices can be set up on your dashboard and easily controlled with iOS or Android mobile apps. Source URL

How can I get more power out of my 5.3 Silverado?

1. The stock air filter is replaced by the aftermarket air.

2. Performance Spark Plugs, Filter, and Wires increase the efficiency and power of gapping.

3. Aftermarket air filters can be used to get better air into the engine and get it out of thin air.

4. A series of computer chips are used to run electronic engines and control functions. Source URL

What is the best tuner for a 5.3 Chevy Silverado?

Although this isn’t a common problem, it can be a problem for frequent tow-ers who live in hot areas. Heat is one of the most serious killers of engines. It is important to keep heat from building up. The LLY’s best reliability mods are to upgrade to a larger, more restrictive turbo inlet. Source URL

SCT’s offer will be a great choice for Powerstroke-run trucks and SUVs that are looking for a stable, reliable type of tuner. This device has a lot of pre-set tunes that are designed to improve performance. You can also download and save up to 20 custom tunes to “summon” them whenever you need. Advanced Wi-Fi support will make it easy for novice users. Source URL

Bottom Line

Superchargers are definitely the most effective way to enhance the performance of a Chevy Silverado. There are other tweaks and adjustments that you can make to your truck in order to optimize, but honestly nothing compares to the additional horsepower and torque gains realized by a supercharger (not tuners or even turbo chargers). That said, it comes at a cost and supercharger kits can be a lot harder to find. That being said – if it were us, we would definitely go for it if you have the money.

CE has scoured the earth in search of reputable parts dealers and have found that AmericanTrucks offers the best combination of reliability, pricing, and coverage (warranties), along with having the most robust inventory we’ve been able to find. Their site is well organized and easily navigable. They have a feature that allows you to enter your truck details (make/model/year/trim) and helps you sort through parts that are certified compatible with your specific vehicle (screenshot below):

Some of the inventory is out of stock, but that’s not unique to their company, it’s an industry-wide issue. We’ve had success by calling them up and working through the details to get it right because their sales reps were actually helpful unlike others we tried.

Check out their inventory of Chevy Silverado superchargers but make sure that your vehicle fitment is squared away with their tool before you pull the trigger. You will have to select your exact vehicle in order to see superchargers that are compatible with a 5.3L engine.