Best Engine Main Bolts & Studs of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2025

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Engine main bolts and studs are crucial components in any engine build. They are responsible for securing the engine block to the crankshaft, which is essential for the engine's proper operation. Main bolts and studs come in different sizes and materials, but they all serve the same purpose: to keep the engine together under extreme conditions. High-performance engines require stronger and more durable bolts and studs to withstand the increased power and torque. When building or rebuilding an engine, it is essential to choose the right main bolts and studs to ensure reliability and longevity.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Michigan Motorsports LS Engine Bolt Kit Cover #TOP 1
Michigan Motorsports LS Engine Bolt Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ARP Main Cap Stud Kit Cover #TOP 2
ARP Main Cap Stud Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Speedmaster PCE287.1002 Main Stud Kit Cover #TOP 3
Speedmaster PCE287.1002 Main Stud Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Engine Main Bolts & Studs

#TOP 1

Michigan Motorsports LS Engine Bolt Kit

MM-LSMainBolts
Black
One Size
Michigan Motorsports LS Engine Bolt Kit Cover
LS Main Bolt and Stud Kit fits 1997-2013 LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS2 LS3 LQ4 LM7 LC9 LR4 L96 L76

The Michigan LS Bolt Kit is an essential replacement for your LS engine's main cap fasteners. Designed to fit a wide range of LS-based V8 engines from 1997 to 2013, this kit includes everything you need: ten main cap bolts, ten main cap studs, and ten side cap bolts. This comprehensive set ensures a secure and reliable fit, enhancing the stability of your engine. By using quality stock replacements, you can trust that your engine will perform optimally, giving you peace of mind during operation. Upgrade your engine's components with this convenient and effective solution.

What We Like
Quality stock replacements
Comprehensive fastener set
Fits multiple LS engine models
Enhances engine stability

ARP Main Cap Stud Kit

ARP
234-5501
ARP Main Cap Stud Kit Cover
ARP 2345501 Main Cap Stud Kit

ARP Main Stud Kit is crafted from high-strength 8740 chrome moly steel, boasting a 200,000 PSI rating, much stronger than Grade 8 hardware. The rolled J-form threads are exceptionally durable, providing 1000% more strength than regular threads. Opting for main studs over bolts ensures precise torque readings and simplifies engine assembly, making your engine-building experience smoother and more accurate.

What We Like
High-strength 8740 steel
200,000 PSI rating
Rolled J-form threads
#TOP 3

Speedmaster PCE287.1002 Main Stud Kit

Speedmaster
PCE287.1002
Speedmaster PCE287.1002 Main Stud Kit Cover
Speedmaster PCE287.1002 Main Stud Kit

Speedmaster Main Stud Kit is designed for Small Block Chevy engines with 4-Bolt configuration. Constructed from high tensile strength chromoly steel, these studs can withstand up to 190,000 PSI. The kit includes 12-Point Nuts and Washers for easy installation. These premium-grade studs are heat-treated, ensuring strength and consistent torque readings. Perfect for engine builders seeking reliable and durable fastening solutions.

What We Like
Premium-grade chromoly steel
Can withstand 190,000 PSI
Includes 12-Point Nuts
#TOP 4

ARP 134-5603 Stud Kit

ARP
134-5603
ARP 134-5603 Stud Kit Cover
ARP 134-5603 Main Stud Kit

The ARP Stud Kit is a high-quality engine main stud and bolt kit that is proudly made in the USA. With compact package dimensions of 1.57 inches in height, 7.62 inches in length, and 4.44 inches in width, it is easy to store and handle. This kit is designed to provide superior strength and reliability for your engine, ensuring that all components stay securely in place during operation. By using this stud kit, you can enhance the performance and durability of your engine, giving you peace of mind while driving.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Easy to install
Improves engine reliability
Proudly made in the USA
#TOP 5

Xotic Performance Main Stud Kit MS334

MS334
One Size
Xotic Performance Main Stud Kit MS334 Cover
Chevy Gen III/LS Series Small Block Main Stud Kit - Xotic Performance™ MS334

The Xotic Main Stud Kit is designed for Chevrolet Gen III/LS engines, ensuring a perfect fit for models from 1997 to the present. Its ultra-strong construction provides exceptional tensile strength, allowing you to handle high clamping forces far beyond standard head bolts. The easy installation process features broached ends and a detailed manual, making it user-friendly for both professionals and DIYers. Additionally, improved cap alignment helps reduce wear and enhances the durability of your engine block, ensuring reliable performance even under extreme conditions.

What We Like
Direct fit for multiple models
High tensile strength
Easy installation process
Improved cap alignment
#TOP 6

IE Parts Group LS Engine Bolt Kit

IE PARTS GROUP
See Listing
IE Parts Group LS Engine Bolt Kit Cover
LS Replacement Main Cap Bolt kit Compatible with 2000-15 GM LS1 LS2 LS6 LS7 LS9 Engines 12560273 12560272 12556127

The IE Parts LS Bolt Kit is designed to enhance the performance of your GM LS engine. It includes ten inner main bolts, ensuring a secure fit by replacing the original OEM part number 12560272. Additionally, it comes with ten outer main bolts for the windage tray, which helps maintain optimal oil control. You will also find ten side bolts for the main cap, effectively replacing OEM part 12556127. This comprehensive set is compatible with a variety of Chevy and Pontiac models from 1997 to 2015, making it a convenient choice for your engine rebuild or upgrade.

What We Like
High-quality replacements
Compatible with multiple models
Secure fit for main components
Complete bolt set included
#TOP 7

ARP High Performance Main Bolt 1345202

ARP
134-5202
Black
ARP High Performance Main Bolt 1345202 Cover
ARP 1345202 High Performance Series Main Bolt

ARP Main Bolt 1345202 is a high-performance main stud/bolt kit made in the USA. The package dimensions are 5.842 H x 22.098 L x 10.668 W (centimeters). This product falls under the category of Engine Main Bolts & Studs. The ARP Main Bolt 1345202 ensures durability and reliability for your engine, offering top-notch quality as it is made in the USA. The precise dimensions make it easy to install, providing a perfect fit for your engine.

What We Like
High Performance
Made in USA
Durable
#TOP 8

Speedmaster PCE287.1024 Stud Kit

Speedmaster
PCE287.1024
Speedmaster PCE287.1024 Stud Kit Cover
Speedmaster PCE287.1024 Main Stud Kit

The Speedmaster Stud Kit is designed for various GM LS engines, including LS1, LS2, LS6, LS7, and LSX models. Made from high-quality 8740 chromoly steel, these studs can withstand an impressive 190,000 PSI, ensuring durability and reliability in high-performance applications. Each kit includes precision-engineered 12-point nuts and washers, providing a secure fit and consistent torque readings. The heat-treated, parallel-ground washers enhance strength, making installation easier and more efficient for users. This stud kit is perfect for those looking to boost their engine's performance with dependable components.

What We Like
High tensile strength
Includes 12-point nuts
Precision-engineered washers
Compatible with multiple LS models
#TOP 9

Xotic Performance Main Stud Kit

MP876
Black
Xotic Performance Main Stud Kit Cover
Main Stud Replacement Kit for 5.9L 24V Dodge Cummins 1998.5-2006 - Xotic Performance™ MP876

The Xotic Main Stud Kit is a direct fit replacement for 5.9L 24V Dodge Cummins engines from 1998.5 to 2006. These studs are made from ultra-strong XOTIC 7200 material, providing superior tensile strength compared to standard options, ensuring your engine can handle high clamping forces. Installation is straightforward, thanks to broached stud ends and the included manual with diagrams. This kit also improves main cap alignment, reducing wear on block threads and preventing movement during clamping, thus enhancing the overall reliability of your engine under high pressure turbo systems.

What We Like
High tensile strength
Easy installation
Improved cap alignment
Complete installation kit
#TOP 10

ARP H22A H23A Main Stud Kit

ARP
208-5401
ARP H22A H23A Main Stud Kit Cover
ARP 2085401 Main Stud Kit

The ARP Main Stud Kit is designed specifically for Honda H22A and H23A engines, ensuring a precise fit. Weighing only 2.7 pounds, this kit is lightweight yet robust, making installation easier for you. The vehicle-specific fit type means you can trust that these studs will perform well in your engine, providing essential support for critical components. With the quality and reputation of the ARP brand, you can have confidence in the durability and reliability of this main stud kit, enhancing your engine's performance and longevity.

What We Like
Vehicle-specific fit
Lightweight design
Durable construction
Enhanced engine performance
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why use studs instead of bolts?

Studs are preferred over bolts because they provide more accurate torque values. Unlike bolts, studs don't twist during tightening, resulting in more even and accurate clamping forces. By remaining stationary during nut tightening, studs stretch in one axis alone, ensuring consistent torque loading.

2. Are studs stronger than bolts?

Studs are generally considered to be stronger than bolts. Their design reduces the likelihood of twisting during torquing, leading to more consistent torque loading. This consistent loading provides better clamping forces and overall strength compared to bolts.

3. What causes a main bolt to break?

Main bolts can break due to various reasons. These include insufficient preload/tension during installation, loss of preload during service, excessive cyclic loading beyond the bolt's strength, or the bolt being of inferior quality.

4. What is the advantage of a stud?

Studs offer several advantages over bolts. They result in less wear to the block's threads, leading to longer thread hole life. Studs also provide more accurate torque because they don't twist during tightening. This makes them highly reliable and effective for achieving precise torque values.

5. Are bolts as strong as welds?

Welded joints are generally stronger than bolted joints due to the absence of perforations needed for bolts. The manufacturing process plays a significant role in joint strength, with bolted joints offering simplicity while welded joints provide higher strength.

Editor's Notes

During our engine main bolts & stud research, we found 24 engine main bolts & stud products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,408 customer reviews through our big data system to write the engine main bolts & studs list. We found that most customers choose engine main bolts & studs with an average price of $102.18.

The engine main bolts & studs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of engine main bolts & studs, including Michigan Motorsports, ARP, Speedmaster, Xotic Performance, IE PARTS GROUP. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 359 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.