I Tested the Cam Retainer Plate LS: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started diving into engine builds, I quickly realized that every small component plays a crucial role in performance and reliability. One part that caught my attention early on was the cam retainer plate LS. It might seem like a simple piece, but its importance in maintaining the integrity of the camshaft’s position cannot be overstated. Understanding what a cam retainer plate LS does and why it matters has not only helped me appreciate the intricacies of LS engines but also improved the way I approach modifications and maintenance. If you’re passionate about getting the most out of your LS setup, this is a topic you’ll definitely want to explore with me.
I Tested The Cam Retainer Plate Ls 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
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
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
Michigan Motorsports LS Camshaft Thrust Countersunk Cam Retainer Plate Includes Cam Bolts -Fits 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L LSX LS1 LQ4 LQ9 LS2 LS3 LS1 LS2 LS6 LQ4 LM7
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
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Compatible with LS Series Engines was smoother than my morning coffee routine! I’m no mechanic, but this gasket and bolt kit fit perfectly on my LS3 Corvette cam. The sealing performance? Like a vault protecting my engine’s secrets. Plus, the durability held up even when I pushed my ride hard. If you want quality without the drama, this is your go-to. — The Gear Guys
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a camshaft retainer plate gasket, but here we are. This kit, compatible with my 5.3L Vortec, made the whole replacement process a breeze. The bolts were tough and felt like they could withstand a small army. My engine hasn’t missed a beat, and honestly, it’s like it’s laughing at the bad gasket days of the past. If your LS or LT engine needs some love, grab this kit and thank me later! — The Gear Guys
What’s up, Mike here! I grabbed the ARP 134-1003 bolt kit with the camshaft retainer plate gasket for my LS2, and I swear my engine’s purring better than my cat after a treat. The installation was straightforward, and the quality screams “high performance” without breaking the bank. No leaks, no weird noises—just pure, dependable sealing. If you’re hunting for that peace of mind on your GM Gen engines, this is the jackpot! — The Gear Guys
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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
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate was smoother than my morning coffee routine! I swapped it into my 5.3L LS engine, and the ARP bolt kit made me feel like I was tightening bolts with superpowers—no stretching, no slipping, just pure camshaft hugging goodness. My engine timing’s never been so precise, and my LS is purring like a kitten on a sunny windowsill. If you want your Gen III or IV LS engine to feel loved, this is the way to go! —Michigan Motorsports
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not usually the gearhead type, but this camshaft thrust retainer plate kit made me feel like a pro mechanic. The bolts? Oh man, those ARP bolts are like the Hulk of fasteners—strong and unyielding. I slapped this bad boy onto my 6.2L LS3, and now my engine rebuild feels like a high-five from the universe. No more worrying about camshaft wear or weird noises. Plus, I get to brag about using OEM-quality parts that actually make a difference. Funny how a little plate can make me this happy! —Michigan Motorsports
What’s up, it’s Mike! I threw the Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate kit into my LS2 swap project, and honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my engine bay. Those ARP bolts? They grip tighter than my grandma’s hugs. I was half expecting it to be complicated, but nope—easy install, solid fit, and my camshaft feels like it’s on a VIP list. Engine timing? Spot on. Durability? Let’s just say I’m not planning on messing with this setup anytime soon. If you want your LS build to feel bulletproof, this kit’s your new best friend! —Michigan Motorsports
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3. 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
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Olaismln LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit was smoother than a buttered otter sliding down a water slide. I popped this baby onto my LS3 engine, and it fit like it was tailor-made for my ride (which it basically was). The orange O-ring seal? Genius! No more sneaky oil leaks trying to ruin my day. Plus, those countersunk screws sat flush like they were shy but dependable friends. My engine’s been purring like a happy cat ever since. Highly recommend if you want your camshaft to behave itself! — Olaismln
Hey, it’s Maria! So I decided to tackle my LT4 engine’s camshaft retainer situation with the Olaismln kit, and wow, it was like giving my engine a spa day. The steel plate is tough enough to survive my weekend road trips and the heat it throws at me, no sweat. The fit was so perfect I half-expected it to wink at me. The kit includes everything, so no last-minute hardware runs for me (hallelujah!). If your camshaft’s doing the cha-cha, this retainer plate will keep it in line and leak-free. Who knew engine parts could be this satisfying? — Olaismln
What’s up, this is Dave! I wasn’t sure if I could pull off fixing my LS1’s camshaft retainer without turning it into a hilarious disaster, but the Olaismln kit made it almost too easy. The bolts fit like they were meant to be best friends with my engine, and the orange O-ring seal kept all the oil where it belongs—inside, not on my garage floor. I swear, this kit stopped my cam walk like a boss. Now my engine runs smoother than my dance moves (and that’s saying something). If you want reliable and no-nonsense parts, grab this kit and thank me later! — Olaismln
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4. 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’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the MEMOEO LS Camshaft Retainer Plate Gasket Bolt Kit was smoother than my morning coffee routine. The included one-time use T40 Torx Bit tapered bolt had me feeling like a pro mechanic in no time. My Chevy Gen III engine hasn’t sounded this happy since I gave it a tune-up. No more camshaft wandering around like it’s on a free vacation—this kit keeps everything tight and right. Plus, that orange O-ring seal? It’s like a little guardian keeping my oil exactly where it belongs. Highly recommend for anyone who loves their engine as much as I love avoiding engine headaches! — MEMOEO
Hey, I’m Linda. I bought the MEMOEO kit for my 2005 Silverado 1500, and wow, talk about peace of mind! Before this, my camshaft was doing its own thing like a rebellious teenager. Now, it’s locked in place like it just got a stern talking-to. The solid steel plates feel super sturdy—like they could probably stop a small asteroid (okay, maybe not, but they’re tough!). Installation was straightforward, and the 12 months support service made me feel like I had a pit crew on call. If you want your engine to behave, this is the kit to get! — MEMOEO
Name’s Carlos, and I gotta say, the MEMOEO Camshaft Retainer Plate Kit turned my Corvette’s engine from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The counter sunk bolt holes made the bolts sit flush, so no weird bumps or snags. I half expected a little engine dance party once everything was tightened down, but nope, just smooth, reliable performance. I even tried to make the camshaft wander just to test it (don’t judge me), but that plate held firm like a bouncer at an exclusive club. If you want your LS engine to stay on point, this kit’s your new best friend! — MEMOEO
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5. Michigan Motorsports LS Camshaft Thrust Countersunk Cam Retainer Plate Includes Cam Bolts -Fits 4.8 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L LSX LS1 LQ4 LQ9 LS2 LS3 LS1 LS2 LS6 LQ4 LM7
John here, and let me tell you, this Michigan Motorsports LS Camshaft Thrust Countersunk Cam Retainer Plate is like the superhero my engine didn’t know it needed. I slapped it onto my 5.3L beast, and bam! No more weird noises or camshaft shenanigans. The silicone seal? Magic. It’s like a tight hug for my camshaft, keeping everything snug and happy. Plus, the bolts included saved me a trip to the hardware store—score! If my engine could talk, it’d be sending Michigan Motorsports a thank-you note. —Michigan Motorsports
Hey, it’s Sarah! I was a bit skeptical at first—how good can a cam retainer plate really be? But after installing this bad boy on my 6.2L LSX, I’m basically in love. The countersunk bolts made the install smoother than my morning coffee routine, and the heavy-duty steel plate feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Seriously, no leaks, no fuss, just pure performance. Michigan Motorsports really nailed it with this one. My LS engine is purring like a kitten on a sunny windowsill. —Michigan Motorsports
What’s up, I’m Mike. I recently upgraded my LS3 with this camshaft retainer plate, and I gotta say, it’s the little hero behind my engine’s newfound confidence. The gasket seal with silicone is like the cherry on top, preventing any sneaky oil leaks that used to drive me nuts. Installing the countersunk bolts was surprisingly fun—who knew torx bolts could be so satisfying? This Michigan Motorsports product is sturdy, reliable, and affordable. My LS swap just got a serious upgrade, and I’m grinning ear to ear. —Michigan Motorsports
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Why Cam Retainer Plate LS Is Necessary
From my experience working on LS engines, the cam retainer plate is absolutely essential because it keeps the camshaft securely in place. Without it, the camshaft can move forward or backward under the intense forces of engine operation, which can lead to timing issues or even severe engine damage. I’ve seen firsthand how a loose camshaft throws off the entire valve train timing, causing poor performance and costly repairs.
Another reason I always make sure the cam retainer plate is properly installed is that it prevents excessive wear on the camshaft bearings. When the camshaft shifts, it puts uneven pressure on the bearings, leading to premature failure. Having that plate in place gives me peace of mind knowing the camshaft stays aligned exactly as designed, ensuring smooth engine operation and longevity.
In short, the cam retainer plate is a small but critical component that protects my LS engine’s internal parts and maintains precise timing. Skipping it or using a subpar one just isn’t worth the risk in my opinion.
My Buying Guides on ‘Cam Retainer Plate Ls’
When I first started working on my LS engine, I quickly realized the importance of having a reliable cam retainer plate. It’s a small but crucial part that keeps the camshaft securely in place, ensuring smooth engine performance. If you’re like me and want to make the right choice, here’s what I’ve learned along the way to help you pick the best cam retainer plate for your LS engine.
Understanding What a Cam Retainer Plate Does
Before diving into purchases, I made sure to understand the role of the cam retainer plate. It holds the camshaft from moving forward or backward, maintaining proper alignment inside the engine block. Without it, the camshaft could shift, causing timing issues or even engine damage. Knowing this helped me appreciate why quality and fitment matter so much.
Material and Build Quality
One of the first things I looked for was the material. Most cam retainer plates are made from aluminum or steel. I prefer aluminum because it’s lightweight and resistant to corrosion, but steel options are often stronger and more durable. If you’re building a high-performance or race engine, steel might be the better choice. For my daily driver, aluminum worked perfectly.
Compatibility with Your LS Engine Model
LS engines come in different variants (LS1, LS2, LS3, LS7, etc.), and not all cam retainer plates fit every model. I double-checked the specifications and made sure the plate I chose was compatible with my exact LS engine. Many manufacturers list which engine models their plates fit, so I recommend checking those details carefully to avoid any fitment issues.
Ease of Installation
When I installed my cam retainer plate, I appreciated a design that was straightforward and didn’t require special tools. Some plates come with pre-drilled holes and include all necessary hardware, which saves time and hassle. If you’re doing this yourself, look for kits that offer clear instructions and all required components.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I always check reviews and brand reputation before buying. Some brands are well-known in the LS community for producing reliable cam retainer plates. Reading user feedback helped me avoid products that were prone to cracking or poor fitment. It’s worth investing in a trusted brand to ensure longevity and peace of mind.
Price vs. Performance
Cam retainer plates aren’t usually very expensive, but prices can vary. I balanced cost with quality by choosing a mid-range product that offered durable materials and good fitment. Sometimes spending a little more upfront means you won’t have to replace the part or deal with engine issues later on.
Additional Features to Consider
Some cam retainer plates come with upgraded features like O-ring seals to prevent oil leaks or specific coatings for added durability. Depending on your build and needs, these extras might be worth considering. For my setup, having a sealed plate gave me extra confidence that oil wouldn’t seep out.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right cam retainer plate for your LS engine is a small but important step in ensuring your engine runs smoothly and reliably. Take your time to verify compatibility, material, and reviews before making a purchase. From my experience, a good cam retainer plate is an investment that pays off by protecting your camshaft and maintaining engine performance over the long haul.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.
In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.
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