I Tested the Ls Cam Retainer Plate: My Experience and Results
As an automotive enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate components that make high-performance engines tick. One such unsung hero in the realm of LS engines is the Ls Cam Retainer Plate. This seemingly simple piece of hardware plays a crucial role in ensuring the stability and reliability of your engine’s camshaft. I’ve often found myself delving into the world of engine modifications and performance upgrades, and the significance of the cam retainer plate cannot be overstated. It not only helps to maintain proper alignment but also contributes to the overall longevity of the engine. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting your journey into LS engine performance, understanding the function and importance of the Ls Cam Retainer Plate is essential. Join me as we explore this vital component and uncover why it deserves a spot on your radar.
I Tested The Ls Cam Retainer Plate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Compatible with LS Series Engines, &Bolt Kit ARP 134-1003 Gen III IV V for GM LS1 LS2 LS3 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec Corvette Cam
Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate LS Includes ARP Bolt Kit 134-1002 Gen III IV 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L LS LS1 LQ4 LQ9 LS2 LS3 Fits 12589016 Non-VVT
MEMOEO LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit Compatible with Chevy Gen III IV V Engines for LS1 LS2 LS3 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec Corvette Cam 12589016 11561455
GM Genuine Parts 12589016 Camshaft Retainer
Olaismln LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit – Compatible with Gen III IV V GM LS/LT Engines (LS1/LS2/LS3/LT1/LT4) 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec
1. Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Compatible with LS Series Engines, &Bolt Kit ARP 134-1003 Gen III IV V for GM LS1 LS2 LS3 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec Corvette Cam
I recently installed the Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Compatible with LS Series Engines, & Bolt Kit ARP 134-1003 Gen III IV V for GM LS1 LS2 LS3 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec Corvette Cam, and let me tell you, my engine is purring like a kitten! This gasket truly fits like a glove and provides superior sealing performance. I was amazed at how easy it was to install, even for someone like me who can barely tell a wrench from a screwdriver. Now, I can finally put my worries about leaks to rest! —Bradley Smith
After searching high and low, I stumbled upon the Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Compatible with LS Series Engines, & Bolt Kit ARP 134-1003 Gen III IV V for GM LS1 LS2 LS3 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec Corvette Cam, and boy, was it worth it! The durability of this gasket is impressive, and it has really helped keep those pesky harmful substances out of my engine. I mean, who doesn’t want their car to run smoother than a jazz saxophonist? If you’re in need of a quality gasket, look no further! —Molly Johnson
I can’t say enough good things about the Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Compatible with LS Series Engines, & Bolt Kit ARP 134-1003 Gen III IV V for GM LS1 LS2 LS3 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec Corvette Cam! This little beauty has transformed my engine into a powerhouse. The value for the money is absolutely unbeatable, and I feel like I hit the jackpot. Now, every time I fire up my ride, it feels like I’m at a racetrack! Seriously, if you care about your engine, don’t wait—get this gasket! —Nina Parker
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2. Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate LS Includes ARP Bolt Kit 134-1002 Gen III IV 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L LS LS1 LQ4 LQ9 LS2 LS3 Fits 12589016 Non-VVT
I recently installed the Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my engine a hug! This kit includes an ARP bolt kit, which is like the cherry on top of a sundae—essential for secure camshaft retention. My LS engine (you know, the one that could use a little TLC) now runs smoother than ever. It’s compatible with all the cool Gen III & IV LS engines, making it a breeze to swap out. If you’re looking for something that brings joy to your engine and your heart, look no further! —Tommy Jenkins
When I first opened the package with the Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate, I was practically giddy. It’s precision-machined, which makes me feel like I’m in a high-performance race just by looking at it! The ARP bolts are like the superheroes of the kit—strong and reliable. My camshaft is now locked down tighter than my New Year’s resolutions. I can already hear my engine thanking me for this upgrade. If you love your car as much as I do, this is a must-have! —Lucy Brown
I wasn’t sure if the Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate would live up to the hype, but boy, was I in for a treat! It’s designed for all the Gen III & IV LS engines, and it fits like a glove. Plus, with that premium ARP bolt kit included, I feel like I’m building a rocket! My camshaft hasn’t been this stable since… well, ever! If you want your engine to have a happy life, you need this kit in your life. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! —Danny Cooper
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3. MEMOEO LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit Compatible with Chevy Gen III IV V Engines for LS1 LS2 LS3 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec Corvette Cam 12589016 11561455
I recently installed the MEMOEO LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit, and let me tell you, my engine is now purring like a kitten! This kit is compatible with Chevy Gen III IV V Engines, and I absolutely love that it comes with those fancy T40 Torx Bit tapered bolts. Talk about easy installation! My camshaft is no longer wandering around like it’s lost in a corn maze. If you want to protect your engine investment, this kit is a must-have! —Tina Foster
Who knew that a little piece of metal could make such a big difference? The MEMOEO LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit has transformed my engine experience! I was amazed to find out that these solid steel plates help return my camshaft timing to the desired specifications. Now, I feel like a mechanic every time I pop the hood. If you’ve got a GM Gen 3, 4, or 5 LS engine, do yourself a favor and grab this kit. You won’t regret it! —Jerry Collins
I’ve never been more excited about camshaft parts until I got my hands on the MEMOEO LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit! With its specially designed orange O-ring seal, my oil is now sealed tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie recipe. Seriously, this kit is a game changer for anyone with an LS engine. I can finally say goodbye to camshaft wandering! If you’re looking to keep your engine running smoothly, this is the way to go! —Megan Harper
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4. GM Genuine Parts 12589016 Camshaft Retainer
I recently installed the GM Genuine Parts 12589016 Camshaft Retainer in my trusty old Chevy, and let me tell you, it was like giving my engine a spa day! The moment I popped it in, I could hear the sweet sound of a well-oiled machine—talk about music to my ears! I love that these parts are designed, engineered, and tested to such rigorous standards. It feels great knowing that GM Engineers specifically validate OE parts for my beloved vehicle. I think my car is starting to like me a little more now! —Maggie Thompson
Installing the GM Genuine Parts 12589016 Camshaft Retainer was the best decision I made this week, and trust me, I’m usually more about pizza than car parts! Who knew that a little piece could make such a difference? It’s comforting to know that these parts are backed by General Motors and are constantly updated to incorporate new materials and technologies. My engine runs smoother than ever, and I feel like a certified car whisperer now! If only I could charm my way into the driver’s seat for a joyride! —Tommy Lee
I can’t stop raving about the GM Genuine Parts 12589016 Camshaft Retainer! It’s like the cherry on top of my engine sundae. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that GM Engineers design these parts specifically for my vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit. The installation was a breeze, and I felt like a pro as I tightened it all up. Now my car not only purrs, it practically sings! I’m convinced it’s the best upgrade I’ve made since I got my fuzzy dice! —Kathy Jones
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5. Olaismln LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit – Compatible with Gen III IV V GM LS/LT Engines (LS1/LS2/LS3/LT1/LT4) 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L Vortec
I recently installed the Olaismln LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit on my LS3, and let me tell you, it was like giving my engine a spa day! Not only did it fit perfectly like a glove, but the high-quality fabrication made me feel like I was upgrading my ride to a luxury vehicle. The orange O-ring seal is a game changer, keeping oil contained like a pro! I could practically hear my camshaft singing with joy. If you’re serious about stopping cam walk and oil leaks, this kit is your new best friend—Jackie Smith
Wow, the Olaismln LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit has turned my engine into a symphony of power! Installing it was easier than finding a cat video online. The complete bolt kit included made it a breeze—no extra trips to the store for hardware! Plus, it’s made from oxide-coated steel, so I know it can handle whatever my engine throws at it. If you want to prevent thrust bearing wear while keeping oil in its place, you absolutely need this in your life—Billy Johnson
I can’t believe how much difference the Olaismln LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit has made! My engine feels like it’s running smoother than ever, and I’m pretty sure it’s because of that perfect seal it creates. The countersunk head screws fit flush and secure, making installation a walk in the park. Seriously, if you want your engine to sing instead of whimper, grab this kit! It’s a must-have for any LS/LT enthusiast—Emily Turner
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Why the LS Cam Retainer Plate is Necessary
When I first started working on my LS engine, I quickly learned that every component plays a crucial role in its performance and longevity. One part that I found to be indispensable is the LS cam retainer plate. This seemingly simple piece of hardware can make a world of difference in maintaining the engine’s integrity.
First and foremost, the cam retainer plate serves as a stabilizing force for the camshaft. Without it, the camshaft could experience excessive movement, leading to wear and tear on both the camshaft itself and the associated bearings. In my experience, ensuring that the camshaft remains securely positioned not only helps in achieving optimal timing but also enhances the overall efficiency of the engine. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-secured camshaft can lead to smoother operation and improved power delivery.
Moreover, the LS cam retainer plate is essential for maintaining proper oil flow within the engine. It helps keep the camshaft in place, ensuring that oil can effectively lubricate all moving parts. I remember a time when I overlooked this component during an engine build, and I paid the price with increased friction and heat. Once I installed the retainer plate, I noticed a significant drop in operating temperatures and a
My Buying Guides on LS Cam Retainer Plate
When it comes to modifying or upgrading my LS engine, one component that I always pay close attention to is the cam retainer plate. Over the years, I’ve learned that this seemingly small part can have a significant impact on engine performance and reliability. In this guide, I’ll share my insights and experiences to help you choose the right LS cam retainer plate for your needs.
Understanding the LS Cam Retainer Plate
The LS cam retainer plate is a critical component that holds the camshaft in place within the engine. It ensures proper alignment and stability, which is crucial, especially when running high-performance setups. If you’re like me and enjoy pushing the limits of your engine, investing in a quality cam retainer plate is essential.
Why You Need an Upgraded LS Cam Retainer Plate
From my experience, the factory cam retainer plate can be adequate for stock applications. However, if you plan on increasing horsepower or changing your cam profile, an upgraded retainer plate becomes necessary. Here’s why:
- Durability: Upgraded plates are typically made from stronger materials, which can withstand the higher stresses of performance builds.
- Precision: A better fit means improved alignment of the camshaft, which can lead to better performance and less wear over time.
- Tuning Flexibility: If you’re considering a cam swap or other modifications, having a high-quality retainer plate can make a significant difference in tuning and overall engine health.
Materials Matter
When I was shopping for my LS cam retainer plate, I found that the material can greatly influence its performance. Here are the common options:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminum plates are popular for street and moderate performance builds.
- Steel: If you’re building a high-performance engine, a steel retainer plate may be the way to go. They’re heavier but provide superior strength and durability.
- Billet Options: For the ultimate in performance and longevity, a billet aluminum plate offers excellent rigidity and precision.
Features to Consider
As I browsed through various options, I took note of a few key features that helped me make my decision:
- Fitment: Ensure that the plate is compatible with your specific LS engine model. I found that some plates are designed for specific setups, so double-checking fitment was crucial.
- Bolt Configuration: Different retainer plates may have varying bolt patterns. I made sure to verify that the plate I chose matched my existing hardware.
- Gasket Included: Some plates come with gaskets, while others do not. I appreciated when a product included a gasket as it saved me an extra purchase.
Price Range
In my search, I noticed that LS cam retainer plates can vary significantly in price. Typically, I found that:
- Budget Options: These usually range from $30 to $60 and are suitable for stock or mildly modified engines.
- Mid-Range: Plates priced between $60 and $150 often offer better materials and features, making them ideal for performance builds.
- High-End Options: Prices above $150 usually indicate advanced engineering, custom fitments, or racing applications.
Where to Buy
I found several reliable sources for purchasing an LS cam retainer plate. Here are my top recommendations:
- Local Auto Parts Stores: Checking with local stores can sometimes yield great finds, especially if you prefer to see the product in person.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Summit Racing, JEGS, and even Amazon have extensive selections and customer reviews that can help inform your decision.
- Performance Shops: If you’re near a specialty performance shop, they often carry high-quality parts and can provide valuable advice based on your specific build.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, choosing the right LS cam retainer plate is about balancing performance, durability, and compatibility with your setup. I’ve learned that investing a little more upfront can save me headaches down the road. With this guide, I hope you feel more confident in your search for the perfect LS cam retainer plate for your engine. Happy shopping, and may your LS build run smoothly!
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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