Does your LS engine feel a little… sluggish? Maybe you’ve heard whispers about upgrading your rocker arms, but the world of “trunnion upgrades” sounds complicated and confusing. You’re not alone! Many LS engine owners face the same challenge: how do you pick the best trunnion upgrade to get more power and reliability without breaking the bank or making a mistake?
Choosing the right LS rocker arm trunnion upgrade can be tough. There are so many brands, types, and prices out there. You want to make sure you get something that will last, improve your engine’s performance, and not cause any problems down the road. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the technical jargon.
But don’t worry! This blog post is here to help. We’ll break down what LS rocker arm trunnion upgrades are all about in a way that’s easy to understand. You’ll learn why they’re important for your engine and what key features to look for. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident about picking the perfect upgrade for your LS.
Our Top 5 Ls Rocker Trunion Upgrade Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Ls Rocker Trunion Upgrade Detailed Reviews
1. BTR V2 Trunnion Kit LS Premium Rocker Arm Trunion LS LS1 LS3 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 TK002
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your LS engine with the BTR V2 Trunnion Kit LS Premium Rocker Arm Trunnion. This kit is designed for a wide range of LS engines, from the 4.8L to the 6.2L, and offers superior durability and performance. Brian Tooley Racing has improved on their already tough V1 kits, making this V2 version a must-have for serious LS enthusiasts.
What We Like:
- The V2 trunnions use tougher 52100 heat-treated bearing steel for the inner race.
- These trunnions have a self-oiling axle that sends oil directly to the trunnion.
- The kit includes everything you need: BTR V2 Trunnions, caged roller bearings, trunnion clips, and install washers.
- It fits a huge list of LS engines, so it’s likely compatible with your build.
- Brian Tooley Racing is a trusted name in LS performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The inner race is pressed on, which requires specific tools for installation.
- While the V1 kits were tough, the V2 upgrade might be overkill for very mild builds.
The BTR V2 Trunnion Kit is a solid investment for any LS engine owner looking for enhanced reliability and performance. It’s built to last and provides excellent lubrication to crucial rocker arm components.
2. Michigan Motorsports LS1 Rocker Arms with Upgraded Trunnions
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your GM LS engine’s valvetrain with these pre-assembled Michigan Motorsports LS1 Rocker Arms. They come with upgraded trunnions for better durability and smoother operation. This means your engine can handle more power and higher speeds. They are designed to fit many popular LS engines, making them a great choice for performance builds or replacing old parts.
What We Like:
- They come already put together, so installation is quick.
- The upgraded trunnions are stronger than the original ones. This helps prevent them from breaking when you push your engine hard.
- These rocker arms fit many GM LS engines like the 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, and 6.0L.
- They help your engine perform better at high speeds.
- They are made with strong materials and built to last, even with aggressive engine parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they are a great upgrade, some users might find the initial cost a bit high compared to basic replacement parts.
- Availability might vary, so it’s good to check stock before planning your project.
These Michigan Motorsports rocker arms offer a solid upgrade for any LS engine owner looking for improved reliability and performance. They are a smart investment for enthusiasts who demand more from their vehicles.
3. Michigan Motorsports LS Rocker Arm Trunnion Upgrade Kit
Rating: 9.1/10
If you’re looking to boost the performance and reliability of your GM LS engine, the Michigan Motorsports LS Rocker Arm Trunnion Upgrade Kit is a game-changer. This kit upgrades your factory rocker arms with stronger, more durable components. It’s designed to handle the demands of high-RPM driving and aggressive engine builds. The kit provides enhanced stability for your valve train, preventing common failures. This means your engine will run smoother and last longer.
What We Like:
- High-Strength Construction: It uses tough steel trunnions and strong needle bearings for lasting durability.
- Wide Compatibility: This kit works with many popular GM LS engines, including LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and more.
- Enhanced Valve Train Stability: It reduces wear on your valve train and stops factory trunnion problems, especially with performance cams.
- Easy Installation: Everything you need, including clear instructions, is included for a simple setup.
- Improved Performance and Reliability: By cutting down friction and handling more load, it can increase horsepower and torque. It ensures consistent performance even under tough conditions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: The kit is only available in one color.
- Specific Tool Might Be Helpful: While installation is easy, a specialized tool could make it even faster for some users.
This kit offers a solid upgrade for any LS engine owner seeking better performance and peace of mind. It’s a smart investment for anyone serious about their vehicle.
4. LS1 Rocker Arms with Bolts and Pre-Installed Trunion Kit – Fits LS2
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your LS engine’s valve train with the Xotic Performance LS1 Rocker Arms with Bolts and Pre-Installed Trunion Kit (CP201). This kit is designed for a wide range of popular LS engines, including LS2, LS6, LQ4, LQ9, LM7, and the 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, and 6.0L variants. It offers a direct bolt-on solution that enhances performance and durability.
What We Like:
- Pre-Assembled for Easy Installation: The kit comes with 16 fully assembled rocker arms. Each rocker arm has upgraded trunnions already installed, saving you time and effort during installation. You get immediate performance boosts.
- Improved Valve Train Stability: These rocker arms make your valve train stronger and more reliable. This leads to smoother valve operation, which helps your engine perform better and last longer, even when you push it hard.
- Premium Quality Materials: The trunnions are made from strong 8620 steel alloy. They use caged roller bearings instead of the factory’s standard ones. This design spreads out the load better and makes bearing failure less likely, protecting your engine.
- Built for High Performance: The strong trunnions and precise roller bearings are made to handle high engine speeds and aggressive camshafts. They offer great durability when your engine is working hard.
- Better Durability and Reliability: These upgraded parts fix common problems found in stock LS1 rocker arms. They reduce wear and tear, making your engine last much longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- Potential for Overkill for Stock Engines: For engines that are not heavily modified or used for high-performance driving, the enhanced durability might be more than what’s needed.
This kit provides a significant upgrade for your LS engine’s valve train, offering enhanced performance and long-term reliability.
5. BTR Brian Tooley Racing LS Rocker Arm Trunion Kit – 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS1 LS3 LQ4 LM7 LM4 Trunnion Set- No bolts
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your LS engine’s rocker arms with the BTR Brian Tooley Racing LS Rocker Arm Trunion Kit. This kit replaces the weak factory bearings in your stock LS rocker arms with strong, captured roller bearings. This upgrade prevents common failures that can send tiny bearing pieces throughout your engine, causing serious damage. It’s a smart move for anyone looking to boost their LS engine’s performance.
What We Like:
- Protects your engine from common bearing failures.
- Improves rocker arm stability, especially at high RPMs.
- Makes stock rocker arms perform like expensive roller rockers.
- Works with a wide range of LS engines and modifications like cams, turbos, and superchargers.
- A cost-effective way to get better performance and reliability.
What Could Be Improved:
- Does not include new bolts, so you’ll need to reuse your stock ones.
This BTR Trunion Kit is a fantastic upgrade for any LS enthusiast. It offers a significant improvement in reliability and performance for a fraction of the cost of full roller rockers.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Ls Rocker Trunion Upgrade
Are you looking to boost your LS engine’s performance and reliability? An LS rocker trunion upgrade is a smart move. This upgrade strengthens a critical part of your engine, helping it run smoother and last longer. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing an LS rocker trunion upgrade, keep these features in mind:
- Material Strength: You want trunions made from high-quality, durable materials. This ensures they can handle the stress and heat inside your engine.
- Precision Machining: Look for upgrades that are precisely machined. This means they fit perfectly and reduce wear and tear on other engine parts.
- Ease of Installation: Some kits are designed for easier installation. This can save you time and money if you’re doing it yourself.
- Included Components: Check what comes in the kit. Does it include all the necessary hardware, or will you need to buy extra parts?
- Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands known for making quality engine parts. Good reviews and a solid warranty are also good signs.
Important Materials
The materials used in your rocker trunion upgrade make a big difference in its performance and lifespan.
- Steel Alloys: High-strength steel alloys are common and offer excellent durability. They can withstand high temperatures and pressures.
- Tool Steel: Some premium upgrades use tool steel. This material is known for its extreme hardness and wear resistance, making it ideal for demanding applications.
- Bronze or Roller Bearings: Many upgrades replace the stock needle bearings with bronze bushings or roller bearings. These are often more robust and require less lubrication, reducing friction and wear.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can affect the quality of your LS rocker trunion upgrade.
- Improved Quality:
- Heat Treatment: Proper heat treatment of the trunion material makes it much stronger and more resistant to deformation.
- Surface Finish: A smooth, polished surface finish on the trunion and bearings reduces friction and prevents premature wear.
- Tight Tolerances: When parts are made with very precise measurements, they fit together better. This reduces play and vibration.
- Reduced Quality:
- Soft Materials: Using cheaper, softer metals can lead to the trunions bending or wearing out quickly.
- Poor Machining: Rough surfaces or incorrect dimensions can cause damage to your rocker arms and valves.
- Low-Quality Bearings: Cheap bearings can fail, leading to engine damage.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most users install an LS rocker trunion upgrade to prevent common failures in stock LS engines. The stock trunions can sometimes break or wear out, especially in performance applications.
- Preventing Failure: The primary reason people upgrade is to prevent the stock trunion from failing. This failure can cause significant engine damage.
- Improved Reliability: Upgraded trunions make your engine more reliable, especially under stress. This is important for daily drivers and race cars alike.
- Performance Gains: While not a direct horsepower upgrade, a more reliable valvetrain allows your engine to perform at its best without worrying about component failure.
- Longevity: By reducing wear, these upgrades can help your engine last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is an LS rocker trunion upgrade?
A: It’s a replacement part for your LS engine’s rocker arms. It strengthens a weak point in the stock design.
Q: Why do I need to upgrade my LS rocker trunions?
A: Stock LS trunions can fail under stress, leading to engine damage. An upgrade prevents this failure.
Q: How difficult is it to install an LS rocker trunion upgrade?
A: Installation difficulty varies. Some kits are easier than others. It often requires removing the valve covers and rocker arms.
Q: Can I install this upgrade myself?
A: Yes, many DIYers install these. You’ll need basic mechanical knowledge and tools.
Q: What happens if my stock LS trunions fail?
A: Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage, including bent valves or piston damage.
Q: Will this upgrade give me more horsepower?
A: No, it’s primarily a reliability and durability upgrade. It helps your engine run as it should.
Q: What kind of mileage can I expect from an upgraded trunion?
A: High-quality upgraded trunions should last the lifetime of your engine if installed correctly.
Q: Are all LS engines affected by this issue?
A: While not all LS engines will fail, it’s a known weak point across many LS engine families.
Q: Do I need special tools for installation?
A: You’ll need standard mechanic’s tools. Some kits might include a special tool for pressing the new trunions in.
Q: Where can I buy LS rocker trunion upgrades?
A: They are available from online auto parts retailers, performance engine shops, and directly from manufacturers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.