10 Best Arp Cam Bolts 2026

⚡ Quick Verdict

📋 How We Evaluated

Products received scrutiny for build quality, rated strength, and the completeness of included hardware. Performance expectations focused on timing stability, clamping force under harmonics, and ease of installation.

Value and suitability considered application fit, compatibility details, and Amazon-style rating signals such as the presence of rating data and clear buyer targeting.

Cam Bolt Part Number	134-1003
Retainer Plate Bolt Part Number	134-1002
Material	8740 chromoly steel, heat-treated
Included Quantity	3 camshaft bolts and 4 retainer plate bolts

What We Found

The ARP LS Cam and Retainer Plate Bolt Kit is aimed at full LS cam installation hardware. It combines three ARP 134-1003 camshaft bolts with four ARP 134-1002 retainer plate bolts. ARP states the hardware uses 8740 chromoly steel, heat-treated and precision-machined for strength.

The kit is positioned as superior to OEM fasteners by improving clamping force and fatigue resistance. That matters because cam bolts see repeated timing gear loading and valve-train harmonics. With the cam bolts plus the retainer plate bolts included, it helps reduce mismatch and missing-fastener headaches during rebuilds.

Who It’s For

I’d use this for LS cam swaps or engine rebuilds when the retainer plate bolts also need replacement. It’s a fit for street and track builds that want consistent torque retention through heat cycles. It also helps mechanics avoid downtime from tracking down mismatched retainer bolts mid-install.

Compatibility covers 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L, and 6.2L LS applications listed like LS1, LS2, and LS3, when the retainer design matches.

Conversion Target	1-bolt to 3-bolt LS cam gear
Reluctor Compatibility	Fits 58X reluctor engines
Included Hardware	3-bolt cam gear and three ARP 12-point cam bolts
OEM Reference	Replaces GM #12586481

What We Found

The Michigan Motorsports kit is built for a specific swap, installing a 3-bolt camshaft on select LS engines that use a 1-bolt cam arrangement. It targets 58X reluctor wheel engines and includes a hardened 3-bolt cam gear plus three ARP 12-point cam bolts. The kit replaces GM part number 12586481.

The intent is improved durability versus the factory 1-bolt setup, while keeping the conversion parts together in one package. It stands out as a compatibility solution, not just an extra-fastener option.

Who It’s For

This is for LS enthusiasts doing cam swaps that need 3-bolt compatibility on 58X reluctor engines. It fits builds across multiple Gen IV LS variants listed for 2007 to 2015 with the right reluctor style.

My take is that it’s most useful when a cam and gear mismatch would force extra rework. The value is in including both the hardened 3-bolt cam gear and the ARP bolts needed for the conversion.

ARP LS Cam Bolt Kit Part Number	134-1003
Intended Upgrade Use	Upgrade single-bolt cam to aftermarket 3-bolt cam and timing chain gear
Engine Fitment Range	4.8L-6.0L LS1/LS2/LS3/LS6 plus listed LS variants
Performance Claim	Increased preload clamping force with higher material strength

What We Found

The ARP 134-1003 focuses on cam bolt strength for LS builds that move from a single-bolt cam setup. It targets LS families like 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L, and related LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, L99, LS4, LS9, and LSA variants.

ARP positions the design to improve preload clamping and help resist loosening from valve-train harmonics. Because it’s bolt-only, it can be a good fit when your timing gear and retainer stack already match the 3-bolt cam arrangement.

Who It’s For

I would shortlist this when you are refreshing cam bolts during a camshaft update and the rest of the timing hardware is already compatible. It suits street and performance builds where you want steadier torque retention. It also avoids paying for retainer plates you may not need.

Just confirm the engine’s bolt pattern and gear compatibility before ordering.

OEM Reference	Replaces GM #12589016
Compatibility	Non-VVT LS engines: 4.8L-6.2L and listed LS variants
Included Hardware	ARP 134-1002 bolt upgrade plus thrust retainer plate
Goal	Eliminate weak factory countersunk torx design for easier disassembly

What We Found

The Michigan Motorsports camshaft thrust retainer plate kit targets non-VVT LS engines. It replaces GM #12589016 with a heavy-duty flat-style plate. The kit includes an ARP 134-1002 bolt upgrade and aims to address a common LS teardown problem, weak factory countersunk torx design that can strip or seize.

The flat-style plate is intended to improve long-term serviceability while keeping thrust retainer function intact. For performance builds, ARP flat-head bolts are designed to deliver increased clamping force to resist loosening under high-RPM stress.

Compatibility includes 4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L, and 6.2L LS engines listed like LS1, LQ4, LQ9, LS2, and LS3, and it explicitly excludes VVT. That focus makes it feel like a targeted thrust-system fix, not generic fasteners.

Who It’s For

This is for LS owners running non-VVT setups who are planning a cam refresh and want easier future service. It’s especially relevant after high-mileage driving, when factory thrust retainer hardware can make teardown painful. I’d use it when replacing seized or stripped fasteners during rebuilds, or when installing camshaft upgrades.

The point is prevention, reduce stripped torx risk with the plate upgrade and use ARP bolt clamping strength. Just confirm the engine is truly non-VVT before buying.

Application	Small block Ford
Strength Rating	200,000 PSI
Socket Size	5/8 inch
Thread/Length	3/8-16 with 1.460 in long under-head length

What We Found

The ARP Pro Series camshaft gear bolt kit is specified for small block Ford applications. ARP lists it at 200,000 PSI, which is positioned well above Grade 8 hardware. The listing specifies a 5/8 inch socket size, a 3/8-16 thread diameter, and a 1.460 inch long under-head length.

ARP also notes reduced socket head size for easier installation and removal, which matters when you service timing components more often. An oversized bolt head flange is intended to improve cam button retention, helping keep cam gear motion controlled under load.

Overall, it looks well-specified for Ford builders who need durable gear bolts with consistent clamping geometry.

Who It’s For

I’d recommend this for small block Ford owners doing cam gear service, cam swaps, or timing-related rebuilds. It fits street builds that prioritize stable timing, and it also fits performance owners who expect to service components periodically. The benefit is reduced bolt head profile for access in tighter engine bays.

To avoid surprises, verify that your specific small block Ford variant uses the listed bolt dimensions and that the cam button retention requirement matches your engine’s design.

Part Number	2341001
Strength Rating	200,000 PSI
Socket Size	1/2 inch
Thread/Length	5/16-18 with .750 under head length

What We Found

The ARP 2341001 Pro Series cam bolt kit targets supported Chevrolet small and big block applications. ARP rates these bolts at 200,000 PSI, which it frames as stronger than Grade 8 hardware. The kit uses a 1/2 inch socket size, a 5/16-18 thread diameter, and a .750 under head length.

ARP also emphasizes reduced socket head size for easier installation and removal. An oversized bolt head flange is intended to improve cam button retention, which can matter for stable cam motion under load.

The listing info focuses on strength and geometry, so it’s wise to match the exact application coverage and length requirements.

Who It’s For

I would shortlist this for owners running cam changes on supported Chevy small or big block builds who want reliable cam bolt clamping. It fits spirited street setups and racing configurations where service access and repeated adjustments are part of the routine.

The geometry is intended to help with cam button retention. Just confirm the kit’s application coverage and under-head length requirements before you buy.

Part Number	3001001
Strength Rating	200,000 PSI
Socket Size	7/16 inch
Thread/Length	5/16-18 with .750 under head length

What We Found

The ARP 3001001 Pro Series cam bolt kit is built around the goal of stopping cam timing worries. The listing gives a 200,000 PSI strength rating. It specifies a 7/16 inch socket size, 5/16-18 diameter/thread size, and a .750 under head length.

ARP also calls out reduced socket head size for easier installation and removal, which can help speed teardown and rebuild work. The oversized bolt head flange is intended to improve cam button retention, supporting stable cam operation through repeated valve-train loads.

The product details emphasize strength and dimensions, but they do not provide detailed engine application coverage. So buyers need to match the kit to the engine’s cam bolt specification and required length.

Who It’s For

This kit is for builders who need Pro Series cam bolts for supported engines that match the 5/16-18 thread and .750 under-head length. It fits performance builds that run higher RPM, where timing consistency and fatigue resistance matter.

It’s also a straightforward replacement during rebuilds or cam swaps when factory bolt condition is questionable. Since the listing lacks explicit application coverage, verifying compatibility by thread and under-head length is essential before installation.

Part Number	154-1001
Strength Rating	170,000 PSI
Socket Size	5/8 inch
Thread/Length	3/8-16 with 1.460 under head length

What We Found

The ARP 154-1001 high performance cam bolt kit is aimed at camshaft timing reliability. ARP lists a 170,000 PSI strength rating, positioning it as stronger than Grade 8 hardware. The listing includes a 5/8 inch socket size, a 3/8-16 thread diameter, and a 1.460 under head length.

ARP also highlights reduced socket head size for easier installation and removal. An oversized bolt head flange is meant to improve cam button retention, which can help stabilize cam motion and reduce unwanted movement.

The product details do not spell out application model specifics, so buyers need to confirm the required cam and timing gear arrangement for the engine being serviced.

Who It’s For

This fits rebuilders and performance owners who want stronger cam bolts for engines that accept the 154-1001 specification. It works well for street use and track driving where dependable valve timing matters during spirited runs.

I’d treat it as a good option when refreshing worn cam hardware or swapping away from factory bolts. The strength rating and geometry are the main draw, as long as you verify compatibility by thread and under-head length.

Part Number	156-1005
Thread	6 mm x 1.00
Length	1.575 in
Hex Head	8 mm

What We Found

The ARP 156-1005 cam tower bolt kit is described as Ford Coyote compatible. It uses a chromoly, black oxide finish and targets cam tower hardware service. The listing provides a 6 mm x 1.00 thread spec and a 1.575 inch length, with an 8 mm hex head.

Unlike LS cam sprocket bolt kits, this one focuses on tower clamping and stability at the valve cover interface. However, the details shown mostly cover dimensions and hardware description, not a clear torque or preload performance figure.

Still, the defined thread pitch and length make it useful as a precise replacement when the correct tower bolt spec is needed.

Who It’s For

This is for mechanics and Coyote owners doing cam tower service, like rebuilds, reseals, or addressing tower-related loosening. I’d see it as a good pick when you want measured replacement parts with a known thread pitch and clamp height.

Typical scenarios include refreshing a valve cover gasket set or rebuilding valve-train components after high mileage. Value is strongest when these tower bolts are the only missing or damaged hardware, and the 6 mm x 1.00 spec matches your engine.

Part Number	256-1003
Thread	7 mm x 1.00
Length	1.700 in
Set Size	12 bolts

What We Found

The ARP Camshaft Phaser Bolt Pro Series kit, part number 256-1003, is aimed at phaser bolt service. It uses a chromoly, black oxide finish and specifies a 7 mm x 1.00 thread with a 1.700 inch length.

The head is described as a 10 mm 12-point design for positive engagement during torque. The listing provides package dimensions and weight, but it does not include the PSI rating shown in some other Pro Series cam bolt listings.

It also states the set contains 12 bolts, which can help if you are replacing more than one phaser or building a full replacement strategy. For phaser service, having the set reduces the odds of mixing bolt conditions.

Who It’s For

I would choose this for Coyote or other compatible platforms that need cam phaser bolt replacement during timing system service. It fits installers refreshing timing components, correcting timing noise, or replacing worn phasers after mileage or upgrades. The 12-bolt set supports a comprehensive approach instead of piece-meal swapping.

Before ordering, confirm your application compatibility and how many phaser bolts you actually need.

What to Look For Before Buying

When I shop for ARP cam bolts, I start by matching the exact cam and gear setup, including whether I need bolt-only hardware or retainer or thrust parts too.

Check Match Your Engine Cam Setup Exactly

Different LS cam styles can use different bolt patterns and retainer requirements. Verify whether your build uses a 1-bolt or 3-bolt cam gear design. Also check VVT versus non-VVT needs, especially for thrust and retainer kits. Before you order, confirm under-head length and thread pitch so you match clamping height.

Value Choose Complete Kits When Rebuilding

Bolt-only upgrades can work when your existing retainer plates are correct and in good shape. For full cam refreshes, complete hardware kits reduce downtime and avoid mixing fastener quality. Kits that include both cam bolts and retainer plate bolts make the install more predictable.

Compare the included quantity against what your engine requires.

Rating Use Strength Ratings as a Quick Proxy

If you see explicit PSI ratings like 170,000 or 200,000 PSI, that is a good durability signal. Strength numbers do not replace torque specs, but higher ratings often align with better fatigue resistance goals. When PSI data is missing, I look for clear material statements and complete kit coverage.

I also prefer listings that explain preload or timing register benefits.

Verify Confirm Finish and Installation-Friendliness

Chromoly with black oxide can help in typical engine-bay conditions. Reduced socket head geometry and oversized flanges can make service faster and help with cam button retention. Confirm the socket size and head type so you already have the right tools.

Then follow ARP torque procedures and use compatible thread preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do ARP cam bolts require retainer plate bolts replacement too?

Not always, but full cam installations often benefit from replacing both cam bolts and retainer plate bolts. Kits like the ARP 134-1003 plus 134-1002 bundle help avoid mixed hardware. Check your cam/retainer stack and confirm the retainer plate design matches your setup.

If bolts look worn or stripped, replace everything your configuration calls for.

Are ARP cam bolts interchangeable across LS VVT and non-VVT engines?

No. VVT and non-VVT LS engines can require different thrust retainer plate and bolt designs. A non-VVT thrust retainer plate solution, like the one referenced for GM #12589016, may not fit VVT configurations. Confirm your engine marking and verify the kit notes before ordering.

What does a 1-bolt to 3-bolt LS conversion kit change?

A 1-bolt to 3-bolt conversion changes the cam gear mounting style so a 3-bolt camshaft can run on an engine originally configured for a 1-bolt cam. The Michigan Motorsports kit includes a hardened 3-bolt cam gear and ARP 12-point cam bolts.

This helps prevent mismatch issues that can lead to timing instability. Compatibility often depends on the 58X reluctor engine family.

How should cam bolt torque be handled with ARP hardware?

Cam bolts still rely on correct tightening sequence and the right torque specification for your part. ARP hardware typically requires ARP-recommended thread preparation and torque targets that vary by application. Do not assume OEM values apply to every ARP kit.

Using the correct procedure supports consistent preload and timing register accuracy.

Why do cam bolts sometimes strip during disassembly?

Weak factory hardware can strip during disassembly, especially when access is tight or service is repeated. For non-VVT LS platforms, Michigan Motorsports’ thrust retainer plate solution is designed to eliminate a weak countersunk torx design that can strip or seize.

Upgrading to ARP hardware can also improve clamping strength and serviceability. The best prevention is replacing problematic hardware before it fails.

🎯 Final Verdict

The ARP LS Cam and Retainer Plate Bolt Kit (134-1003 plus 134-1002) is my top pick for a complete LS cam install, because it includes both cam and retainer bolts in one hardware set. The heat-treated 8740 chromoly construction and full coverage reduce mismatch risk.

If you are doing a 58X reluctor 1-bolt to 3-bolt conversion, the Michigan Motorsports conversion kit is the better fit since it supplies the hardened 3-bolt cam gear plus ARP 12-point bolts. For best results, match your exact bolt pattern and follow ARP torque procedures.