Best Automotive Replacement Engine Head Bolt Sets for Engine Rebuilds (2026)
We ranked products by fit compatibility, material construction and tensile rating, kit completeness, and overall value for typical engine rebuild scenarios
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate Kit — Best for LS cam installs: camshaft thrust retainer plate kit that simplifies non-VVT camshaft positioning
- Best Premium: ARP head bolt kit for engines — Best for performance rebuilds: high-strength head bolt kit engineered for engine-rebuild and street-performance durability
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall Michigan Motorsports Camshaft Thrust Retainer Plate Kit
Best for LS cam installs: camshaft thrust retainer plate kit that simplifies non-VVT camshaft positioning
Direct GM 12589016 replacement for non-VVT LS engines. Includes ARP 134-1002 bolt kit for proper fit and upgrade. Customers note easy installation and good quality
- OEM-fit upgrade for LS engines
- includes bolt kit
- direct GM replacement
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2
FEL-PRO ES 72200 Head Bolt Set (2-pack)
OEM-style set for general repairs: complete head bolt kit designed for straightforward engine rebuilds
Head bolt set designed to meet or exceed original equipment specifications with application-specific design for a proper fit. Validated for fit, form, and function. Customer insight notes good quality and perfect fit
- meets OE specs
- application-specific design
- validated for fit and function
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3
FEL-PRO ES 72856 Head Bolt Set (Pack of 2)
Best for cylinder head replacements: head bolt pair sized for common engine rebuild applications with OEM fit intent
Head bolt set designed to meet OE specifications with application-specific fit and sealant on threads. Customers note good quality, proper fit, and torque validation, with some concern about bolt strength
- OEM-spec compatibility
- pre-applied thread sealant
- design validated for fit and function
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4
FEL-PRO ES 72434 Engine Cylinder Head Bolt Set for Toyota Corolla
Best for Toyota/Lexus engines: cylinder head bolt set tailored to those engine families for correct fit and torque specs
Engine cylinder head bolt set compatible with multiple Toyota/Lexus models. Provides quality and functional performance for bolting the head back on. One customer notes ease of installation
- compatibility across multiple models
- easy installation
- noted quality and functional performance
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5
FEL-PRO ES 72390 Head Bolt Set (2-pack)
Best dependable OEM-replacement option: head bolt pair that focuses on correct head clamp and standard rebuild needs
Engine head bolt set designed to meet OEM specs and provide a proper fit. Validators ensure fit, form, and function for cylinder head applications. Customers note OEM quality and value, with mixed feedback on strength and fit
- OEM-quality perception
- OEM-spec validation
- application-specific fit
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6
Best Premium ARP head bolt kit for engines
Best for performance rebuilds: high-strength head bolt kit engineered for engine-rebuild and street-performance durability
ARP head bolt kit for street, off-road, and power sport engines. Includes precise hardware and clear instructions. Customers note first-class quality and good fit
- precision-engineered bolts
- suitable for street and off-road use
- comprehensive instructions included