Why You Need ARP Head Bolts (Especially on LS Engines)

OEM LS head bolts:

• Stretch under load
• Are not reusable
• Struggle with boost or high compression

ARP Fixes All That:

• Far higher clamping force than stock bolts
• Reusable design (no torque-to-yield nonsense)
• Precision-machined threads for accurate torque
• 12-point head for better tool access

Translation: your heads stay sealed—even when you’re pushing things harder than GM ever intended.

Vehicle Fitment (2004+ GM LS Engines)

Designed specifically for Gen III / Gen IV LS engines (2004 and newer):

Compatible Engines:

• 4.8L (LY2)
• 5.3L (LM7, LC9, LH6, LY5)
• 5.7L LS1 (late applications)
• 6.0L (LQ4, LQ9, LS2)
• 6.2L (LS3, L92, L99)

Found In:

• Silverado / Sierra (2004+)
• Camaro (LS2, LS3)
• Corvette (C6)
• Tahoe / Yukon / Escalade

Ideal For:

• LS rebuilds
• Cam + head upgrades
• Turbo / supercharged builds
• High compression NA builds

If you’re adding boost and still trusting factory bolts… that’s between you and your head gasket.

Head Bolt Package – 12pt GM LS 04 & Later
Merchandise Package deal Size: 8.62L x 4.21W x 2.24H inches
Merchandise Package deal Weight – 4.73 Kilos
Merchandise Package deal Amount – 1
Product Kind – BOLTS

Key Features

• 12-point head design for precise torque application
• High-strength alloy construction (significantly stronger than OEM)
• Black oxide finish for corrosion resistance
• Reusable hardware
• Complete kit for both cylinder heads

Performance Benefits

• Prevents head lift under boost or high cylinder pressure
• Maintains consistent clamping force across the head gasket
• Supports high horsepower LS builds
• Improves long-term engine reliability

No more “mystery coolant loss” or “why is there milkshake in my oil?”

Installation Notes

• Follow ARP torque specs exactly
• Use ARP thread lubricant (don’t cheap out here)
• Install during:
  • Head gasket replacement
  • Engine rebuild
  • Forced induction upgrade

Why ARP?

Because when it comes to sealing your engine:

• OEM = adequate
• ARP = overkill (in a good way)

And overkill is exactly what you want here.

Final Verdict

The ARP 12-Point Head Bolt Kit for 2004+ LS engines is a foundational upgrade for any serious LS build.

It’s not flashy—but it’s the reason your engine survives when you start pushing real power.