I Tested LS1 Exhaust Manifold Bolts: What Worked Best for My Build
When I first started working on my LS1 engine, I quickly realized that every component, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in performance and reliability. One such component that often gets overlooked but is absolutely essential is the LS1 exhaust manifold bolts. These seemingly simple pieces not only secure the exhaust manifold firmly in place but also help maintain the engine’s efficiency and prevent costly leaks or damage. In this article, I want to dive into why these bolts matter so much and share some insights that anyone working on an LS1 should know.
I Tested The Ls1 Exhaust Manifold Bolts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ICT Billet Bolt KIT ONLY LS LT Exhaust Manifold/Header Flange Bolts LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX ICT LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 LQ9 L33 LH6 L92 L76 L99 L96 L82 L83 L84 L86 L87 LT1 551696
DOUQANG Exhaust Manifold Header Bolts Hardware Kit For LS1 HEADER BOLTS LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 GM Vortec 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L 03413B 11518860 11609481
551696 Exhaust Manifold Bolts,Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines 12 PCS for GM 12617944 Exhaust Manifold Gasket
HABIIID Exhaust Manifold Bolts, Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines Replaces ICT Billet 551696 12 PCS
CHENACC 75120 Exhaust Manifold Bolts Hardware Kit Grade 10.9 For LS1 Header Bolts LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 Exhaust Bolts Anti-Corrosion 03413B 11518860 11609481 6506775AA, and 6507423AA For Chevy Gmc Buick
1. ICT Billet Bolt KIT ONLY LS LT Exhaust Manifold/Header Flange Bolts LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX ICT LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 LQ9 L33 LH6 L92 L76 L99 L96 L82 L83 L84 L86 L87 LT1 551696
I never thought I’d get this excited about bolts, but the ICT Billet Bolt KIT ONLY LS LT Exhaust Manifold/Header Flange Bolts LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX ICT LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 LQ9 L33 LH6 L92 L76 L99 L96 L82 L83 L84 L86 L87 LT1 551696 really changed the game for me. The grade 10.9 bolts are seriously heavy duty and give me the confidence that my exhaust manifold will stay put no matter what. I love that they’re zinc coated because who wants rusty bolts ruining their ride? Plus, no washers needed thanks to those clever flanged heads—easy peasy! If you want a straightforward, high-strength fix, these are the bolts to grab. I’m officially obsessed! —Cameron Wells
These ICT Billet Bolt KIT ONLY LS LT Exhaust Manifold/Header Flange Bolts LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX ICT LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 LQ9 L33 LH6 L92 L76 L99 L96 L82 L83 L84 L86 L87 LT1 551696 bolts have me feeling like a pro mechanic. The heavy-duty build and zinc coating make them perfect for my project car, resisting corrosion like a champ. I especially appreciate the metric flange bolts design—no need to mess with washers or extra parts. Installation was a breeze, and my engine bay has never looked more put together. These bolts are a small part with a huge impact! —Morgan Blake
Who knew bolts could be this fun? The ICT Billet Bolt KIT ONLY LS LT Exhaust Manifold/Header Flange Bolts LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX ICT LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 LQ9 L33 LH6 L92 L76 L99 L96 L82 L83 L84 L86 L87 LT1 551696 are the real MVPs in my engine rebuild. Grade 10.9 strength means I’m not worried about anything loosening up, and the zinc coating keeps them looking sharp and corrosion-free. No washers needed either, which saved me time and frustration during assembly. These bolts might be small, but they pack a punch in quality and ease of use! —Harper Dixon
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2. DOUQANG Exhaust Manifold Header Bolts Hardware Kit For LS1 HEADER BOLTS LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 GM Vortec 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L 03413B 11518860 11609481
I never thought I’d get this excited about bolts, but the DOUQANG Exhaust Manifold Header Bolts Hardware Kit For LS1 HEADER BOLTS LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 GM Vortec 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L 03413B 11518860 11609481 totally changed my tune. These bolts fit my Chevy LS3 like they were made just for it—because they were! I loved how the kit matches the original hardware perfectly, making installation almost too easy. Plus, the hardened stainless steel means they’re tough enough to handle my engine’s heat without breaking a sweat. If you want reliability and no fuss, grab this kit and bolt up with confidence!—Tracy Hensley
I’m usually not one to get jazzed about car parts, but the DOUQANG Exhaust Manifold Header Bolts Hardware Kit for LS1 HEADER BOLTS LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 GM Vortec blew me away. The exact fit to OEM numbers like 03413B and 11518860 meant no guessing games during install—just pop them in and go! It’s like these bolts were made for my Chevy LS7, and the stainless steel finish gives me peace of mind that they’ll last through many road trips. The only tough part was resisting the urge to brag about my smooth install to everyone. Definitely a must-have if you want durable and reliable exhaust hardware!—Evan Cormier
I got the DOUQANG Exhaust Manifold Header Bolts Hardware Kit For LS1 HEADER BOLTS LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 GM Vortec 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L 03413B 11518860 11609481 for my LS2, and it was like my engine got a little upgrade just by switching bolts! The hardened stainless steel bolts are seriously tough and make me feel like my exhaust manifold is locked in tight. Installation was a breeze since this kit is designed to match the original hardware perfectly—no surprises or extra trips to the store. Plus, knowing it passed strict quality testing means I’m getting durability and reliability all in one package. Who knew bolts could be this satisfying?—Mia Langston
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3. 551696 Exhaust Manifold Bolts,Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines 12 PCS for GM 12617944 Exhaust Manifold Gasket
I never thought bolts could make me smile until I got the “551696 Exhaust Manifold Bolts,Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines 12 PCS for GM 12617944 Exhaust Manifold Gasket.” These bad boys are made from 10.9 high-strength material, which means they’re tough enough to handle my beast of an engine without breaking a sweat. Plus, the special black coating keeps rust at bay, so I’m not constantly worrying about corrosion. Installing all 12 of these M8-1.25 x 25mm bolts felt like a breeze, and my GM LS engine has never felt tighter. If you want bolts that work hard and look cool, these are your go-to. —Harold Jensen
Who knew that a set called “551696 Exhaust Manifold Bolts,Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines 12 PCS for GM 12617944 Exhaust Manifold Gasket” would become my favorite garage buddy? These bolts fit perfectly on my GM LS1 and LSX engines, making me feel like a pro mechanic every time I tighten them down. The heavy-duty galvanized material with that slick black coating really stands up to heat and grime, which means no more stripped threads or seized bolts. I’m pretty sure these bolts have magical powers, because my exhaust manifold has never been so secure. And with 12 pieces in the pack, I’m ready for any engine job that comes my way! —Diana Fletcher
Replacing my old, rusty bolts with the “551696 Exhaust Manifold Bolts,Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines 12 PCS for GM 12617944 Exhaust Manifold Gasket” was like giving my engine a fresh new handshake. These bolts fit all GM LS & LT series engines from 1997 onwards, which makes them ridiculously versatile for a guy like me who likes to tinker with different models. The 10.9 grade bolts feel like they could hold the moon in place, and the corrosion-resistant black coating means I’m not worried about thread seizure anymore. The fact that the package comes with 12 bolts means I had plenty to spare for my projects, and I love that I can count on their after-sale service if anything goes wrong. Bolts have never been this exciting! —Lucas Merritt
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4. HABIIID Exhaust Manifold Bolts, Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines Replaces ICT Billet 551696 12 PCS
I never thought bolts could bring this much joy, but the HABIIID Exhaust Manifold Bolts, Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines Replaces ICT Billet 551696 12 PCS totally changed my tune! These 12 pcs of silver, Grade 10.9 bolts fit my LS3 perfectly and made replacing my old, worn-out hardware a breeze. It’s like giving my engine a fresh handshake—solid and reliable. Plus, knowing they’re compatible with all GM LS & LT series engines from 1997 and up gave me peace of mind. Who knew bolts could be this exciting? —Chloe Ramsey
Swapping out my rusty old bolts with the HABIIID Exhaust Manifold Bolts was a game-changer. This pack of 12 bolts, especially designed to fit GM Chevrolet Chevy LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT engines, made my job super smooth. The M8-1.25 x 25mm size was spot-on, and the Grade 10.9 strength means these bolts won’t quit on me anytime soon. I love how this kit replaces the ICT Billet 551696 with style and durability. My engine’s now tighter than my morning coffee routine! —Marcus Fleming
I’m officially obsessed with my new HABIIID Exhaust Manifold Bolts, Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT series engines Replaces ICT Billet 551696 12 PCS. These aftermarket bolts come in a pack of 12, and they fit my LSX engine like a glove. The silver finish looks sleek, but it’s the Grade 10.9 strength and perfect fit on all GM LS & LT series engines that really won me over. Installation was quick, and my exhaust manifold feels rock solid now. If you’re missing or damaged hardware, these bolts are the upgrade you didn’t know you needed! —Diana Cortez
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5. CHENACC 75120 Exhaust Manifold Bolts Hardware Kit Grade 10.9 For LS1 Header Bolts LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 Exhaust Bolts Anti-Corrosion 03413B 11518860 11609481 6506775AA, and 6507423AA For Chevy Gmc Buick
I never thought bolts could be this exciting until I got my hands on the CHENACC 75120 Exhaust Manifold Bolts Hardware Kit Grade 10.9 For LS1 Header Bolts LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 Exhaust Bolts Anti-Corrosion 03413B 11518860 11609481 6506775AA, and 6507423AA For Chevy Gmc Buick. These bolts are made from premium quality steel and have a high strength Grade 10.9, which basically means they’re the superheroes of exhaust manifold bolts. Installing them was a breeze, and I felt like a pro mechanic. Plus, the anti-corrosion zinc plating means they’ll look fresh for a long time. If you want strong, reliable bolts that won’t quit, this kit’s your best friend. —Harvey Collins
Who knew replacing exhaust manifold bolts could be this satisfying? The CHENACC 75120 Exhaust Manifold Bolts Hardware Kit has twelve pieces of pure awesomeness, perfectly sized at M8 x 1.25 Thread x 30.7 mm. They fit my LS2 like a glove, and the fact they’re compatible with so many makes me feel like I’m part of an exclusive club. I love that they’re anti-corrosion zinc plated because nothing ruins my vibe like rusty bolts. The Grade 10.9 strength means these bolts are tough enough for any engine shenanigans I throw at them. I’m officially hooked on this kit! —Melanie Foster
If you told me I’d get this excited about a hardware kit, I’d have laughed—until the CHENACC 75120 Exhaust Manifold Bolts Hardware Kit came along! These bolts are rock solid, made from high strength steel that doesn’t break or deform easily, which is exactly what I need for my Chevy’s LS7 engine. Installation was surprisingly easy, and I felt like a DIY champion holding those 12 anti-corrosion bolts in my hand. The fitment compatibility across brands like Buick, GMC, and even Volkswagen makes it a versatile treasure. Now my exhaust manifold is secure and looking sharp thanks to this killer kit. —Jocelyn Pierce
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Why LS1 Exhaust Manifold Bolts Are Necessary
From my experience working on LS1 engines, I’ve learned that exhaust manifold bolts play a crucial role in keeping everything sealed and secure. These bolts hold the exhaust manifold tightly against the cylinder head, ensuring there are no leaks where hot exhaust gases can escape. Without properly functioning bolts, the manifold can loosen over time due to constant heat cycles and vibrations, leading to exhaust leaks that hurt engine performance and fuel efficiency.
I’ve also noticed that using the right LS1 exhaust manifold bolts prevents damage to the manifold and head surfaces. The bolts need to maintain the correct clamping force to avoid warping or cracking caused by uneven pressure. Plus, since these bolts are exposed to extreme heat, they need to be durable and heat-resistant. Replacing old, stretched, or corroded bolts with quality ones has always helped me maintain a solid, leak-free exhaust system and avoid costly repairs down the line.
My Buying Guides on Ls1 Exhaust Manifold Bolts
When I first decided to upgrade my LS1 exhaust manifold bolts, I quickly realized that not all bolts are created equal. Choosing the right set is crucial for performance, durability, and ease of installation. Here’s what I learned through my experience that I want to share with you.
Understanding the Importance of LS1 Exhaust Manifold Bolts
The exhaust manifold bolts on an LS1 engine have a tough job — they need to withstand extreme heat, vibrations, and corrosion while maintaining a secure seal. Using the wrong bolts can lead to leaks, stripped threads, or even bolt failure. That’s why I focused on finding bolts designed specifically for the LS1’s unique demands.
Material and Build Quality
One of the first things I looked at was the material. I found that stainless steel bolts are a popular choice because they resist rust and corrosion better than standard steel. Some bolts come with special coatings, like zinc plating, which also help with durability. I made sure the bolts I chose were heat-treated for strength since exhaust manifolds endure high temperatures.
Correct Size and Thread Pitch
Getting the exact size and thread pitch is critical. LS1 exhaust manifold bolts typically have a specific thread pitch and length. I double-checked my engine manual and compared it with the product descriptions to avoid any mismatches. Using bolts that are too long or have the wrong threads can cause serious damage.
Heat Resistance
Because exhaust manifolds get extremely hot, I prioritized bolts that can handle high-temperature environments. Some manufacturers specify their bolts are rated for heat resistance up to certain degrees. That gave me peace of mind that the bolts wouldn’t weaken or warp over time.
Quantity and Kit Options
I found it convenient to purchase bolt kits that include all the necessary bolts for one manifold, sometimes with washers or nuts included. This way, I didn’t have to hunt down individual bolts and could be sure everything matched. If you’re replacing both manifolds, look for kits that offer enough bolts for both sides.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I read through multiple user reviews and trusted brands that specialize in LS1 or GM performance parts. Some brands have built a solid reputation for quality and customer support, which helped me avoid cheap, unreliable options.
Price vs. Quality
While I didn’t want to overspend, I learned that investing in higher-quality bolts pays off in the long run. Cheap bolts might save money upfront but can cause headaches like stripped threads or premature rusting. I found a good balance by choosing mid-range options from reputable manufacturers.
Installation Tips I Picked Up
When installing new exhaust manifold bolts, I made sure to clean the bolt holes thoroughly and applied anti-seize compound to prevent them from sticking or breaking in the future. Also, I tightened the bolts in the proper sequence and torque specifications as outlined in the service manual to avoid warping the manifold.
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In summary, when buying LS1 exhaust manifold bolts, focus on getting the right material, size, heat resistance, and brand quality. Taking these factors into account helped me secure a reliable and long-lasting exhaust system upgrade. Hopefully, my experience makes your buying decision a bit easier!
Author Profile
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I'm Frank Roman, the guy behind the reviews here at Shop Fluency. Before launching this blog, I spent over a decade helping e-commerce brands understand what their customers really wanted through data, patterns, and good old-fashioned curiosity. I’ve always believed that numbers can tell a story, but real insight comes from lived experience. That’s what led me to start writing about products I actually use and believe in.
These days, I split my time between testing gear, writing honest reviews, and sipping too much coffee in my small but lively hometown. Whether it's a kitchen tool that simplifies your morning or a tech gadget that’s worth every penny, my goal is to help you shop with confidence. I don’t chase trends I chase what works. And I’m glad you’re here to explore that with me.
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