Looking for a reliable rocker arm trunnion kit to upgrade your GM LS engine’s valvetrain? This guide highlights five top-rated options that optimize durability, reduce wear, and improve stability. Each product is described with who it’s best for, why it was selected, and practical cautions.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan Motorsports LS Rocker Arm Trunnion Upgrade Kit | Builders seeking a complete kit with pre-installed trunnions for quicker installation | Premium 8620 steel trunnions with caged roller bearings; ready-to-install set minimizes assembly time |
| BTR V2 Trunnion Kit LS Premium | High-performance LS builds requiring hardened inner race bearings | 52100 bearing steel inner race; V2 upgrade offers robust durability for aggressive cam profiles |
| BTR V2 Trunnion Kit with Bolts Premium | Racing or high-RPM applications needing solid install hardware | Same V2 trunnion upgrade with included bolts for a complete install kit |
| JAVOUKA Rocker Arms and Bolts with Trunion Kit | Budget-conscious builders needing compatibility across LS family engines | Includes rocker arms, bolts, and trunnion kit designed for common LS variants |
| RJSPHH Rocker Arm Trunnion Upgrade Kit with Bolts | Driveway-to-track upgrades that prioritize stability and stiffening | Comprehensive contents: 16 trunnions, bearings, rings, bolts, and washers for balanced upgrades |
Michigan Motorsports LS Rock Arm Trunnion Upgrade Kit
The Michigan Motorsports LS Rock Arm Trunnion Upgrade Kit provides a high-strength, pre-assembled valvetrain upgrade. It features heavy-duty trunnions and caged roller bearings designed to reduce wear and improve stability in high-RPM operation. Best for builders who want a ready-to-install solution that minimizes disassembly time and avoids common weak points in factory LS rockers.
Enthusiasts upgrading multiple LS engines or performing a thorough valvetrain refresh.
The kit includes upgraded components already installed, reducing installation steps and potential misassembly. A caveat is that compatibility should be verified for older or non-standard LS configurations.
BTR V2 Trunnion Kit LS Premium Rocker Arm Trunion
The BTR V2 Trunnion Kit features a premium trunnion design with inner race bearings. It’s engineered to withstand heavy loads and high RPMs, making it suitable for aggressive camshafts and performance builds. Best for: high-performance LS engines that demand solid wear resistance and longer valvetrain life.
The V2 upgrade uses a different bearing material emphasis; verify compatibility with your specific cam and valve train geometry before installation.
BTR V2 Trunnion Kit with Bolts Premium
This kit mirrors the V2 trunnion upgrade and adds bolts for a streamlined installation. It’s ideal for builders who prefer a single-package upgrade that covers both trunnions and mounting hardware. Best for: high-RPM applications and those who want minimal assembly steps.
Make sure the included bolts are compatible with your cylinder head and rocker stand design to prevent fitment issues.
JAVOUKA Rocker Arms and Bolts with Trunion Kit
JAVOUKA’s kit is designed for LS1, LS2, LS6, and LR4 variants, offering a balanced set of rocker arms and trunnion hardware. Best for: builders seeking broad compatibility across multiple LS family engines with a single kit.
OEM fitment may vary by engine model; confirm exact valve train geometry before purchase.
RJSPHH 13702 Rocker Arm Trunnion Upgrade Kit With Bolts
RJSPHH’s kit provides a comprehensive upgrade with 16 rocker arm trunnions, bearings, retaining rings, and bolts. Best for: users who want a full-valvetrain upgrade with stiffening benefits and included hardware.
The full contents must align with your engine’s specific LS generation and bore spacing to avoid mismatches.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Rocker Arm Trunion Kits
- Compatibility: Confirm your engine family (LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, etc.), displacement, and cylinder head design. Some kits list broad compatibility while others specify exact models.
- Trunnion Material and Bearings: Higher-grade trunnions and inner race bearings improve durability under high RPM and aggressive cam profiles. Look for 52100 steel or equivalent bearing steel and caged roller bearings for longevity.
- Installation Time: Some kits come pre-installed with upgraded trunnions, reducing disassembly and assembly time. This is helpful for builders with limited time or who want a cleaner install.
- Hardware Inclusions: Bolts, washers, and retaining rings vary by kit. Choose a kit that provides all necessary hardware to avoid hunting for matching parts.
- Valve Train Stability: Upgrades aim to reduce wear, improve reliability, and prevent trunnion failures. Consider kits marketed for high-RPM or aggressive cam setups if your build falls into those categories.
- OEM Stand Compatibility: Some LS3-based kits include OEM stands to ensure proper valvetrain geometry. This can help with fitment and alignment on compatible engines.
- Budget vs. Performance: Premium kits typically offer stronger bearings and more durable materials but at a higher price. Match your goals, whether daily driving reliability or race-level performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a rocker arm trunnion kit?
A rocker arm trunnion kit replaces or upgrades the rocker arm’s trunnion and bearings, improving wear resistance and valvetrain stability, especially under high RPM or aggressive cam profiles.
- Are all LS engine variants compatible with these kits?
Many kits advertise broad LS compatibility, but confirm exact fitment for your engine’s generation and head design before purchase.
- Do these kits require professional installation?
Installation can be performed by a skilled mechanic, but some kits with pre-installed trunnions are designed to simplify the process for DIY builders. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Will upgrading the trunnion improve performance in daily driving?
Yes, by reducing wear and maintaining stable valvetrain geometry, leading to smoother operation and potentially longer component life.
- What should I check after installation?
Verify proper rocker arm alignment, ensure no binding in the valve train, and confirm correct pushrod length and stand height for optimal geometry.
- Is a warranty available for these kits?
Warranty details vary by seller. Check manufacturer or seller terms for coverage related to wear, defects, and installation conditions.