Best LS Valve Covers: 7 Top Options Compared

When I started my last LS swap project, the first thing I noticed was how much the stock stamped steel covers cramped the style of the engine bay. Upgrading to a set of the best ls valve covers isn’t just about looks; it’s often necessary for clearance, especially when running aggressive cam profiles. I’ve spent time testing different materials and designs, and this guide breaks down seven top options that deliver on performance and appearance for your LS engine.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Htostar Racing Tall For LS LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7…	View on Amazon
	TBAPFS Cast Aluminum Engines Valve Cover with Coil Mounts…	View on Amazon
	Aluminum Valve Cover For Predator 212 6.5HP Hemi Engine…	View on Amazon
	BTR LS Black Valve Cover Set With Coil Mounts	View on Amazon
	LS Cast Black Aluminum Valve Covers Coil Mount Kit…	View on Amazon
	LS Cast Aluminum Tall Valve Covers w/Coil Mounts for LS1/…	View on Amazon
	TBAPFS Cast Aluminum Valve Covers with Coil Mounts…	View on Amazon

Htostar Racing Tall For LS LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 Cast Aluminum Valve Covers w/Coil Mounts (Black)

These Htostar covers are an outstanding blend of form and function. Designed specifically to clean up the engine bay, they feature integrated, angled coil mounts that eliminate the need for the unattractive OE-style coil brackets. Built from robust cast aluminum and finished with a durable powder coating, these covers also offer a crucial additional 0.54” internal clearance over stock height, making them ideal for performance builds running taller valvetrain components.

Key features that stand out:
– Beautify Appearance: Angled coil mounts deliver a smooth, clean look.
– Heightened Valve Covers: Adds 0.54” internal clearance for taller valvetrain parts.
– Durable Construction: High-quality cast aluminum with a protective powder-coated finish.
– Complete Kit: Includes OE-style baffle, offset coil bracket, billet oil fill cap, gaskets, and hardware.

Pros:
– Excellent internal clearance for high-lift rocker arms.
– Integrated coil mounts drastically improve engine aesthetics.
– High-quality finish resists corrosion well.
– Includes all necessary installation hardware.

Cons:
– These tall covers might pose minor fitment challenges in extremely tight engine bays.

Best for:
Performance builders needing maximum valvetrain clearance without sacrificing coil-on-cover aesthetics.

Expert Opinion: This set is a benchmark for aftermarket best ls valve covers. The baffling system is effective, and the additional height is invaluable for serious performance applications.

TBAPFS Cast Aluminum Engines Valve Cover with Coil Mounts Compatible with GM LS LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 5.3 6.0 – Black

The TBAPFS covers offer a strong yet lightweight solution designed to give your engine a clean, unique aesthetic. Their fabricated aluminum construction is both durable and appealing, making them a popular choice for street rods and show cars. Like the Htostar covers, these use angled coil mounts to maintain the high-tech look of a coil-on-cover setup while hiding the messy factory brackets. They are compatible across a wide range of common LS engines.

Key features that stand out:
– Fabricated Aluminum: Strong, lightweight construction with a racing aesthetic.
– Unique Design: Angled coil mounts eliminate unsightly OE brackets.
– Wide Application: Fits virtually all standard LS engines (LS1 through LS7).
– Easy Installation: Comes complete with baffles, ventilation system, gaskets, and mounting hardware.

Pros:
– Lighter weight than some other cast options.
– Excellent compatibility across the LS family.
– Installation is fast and straightforward.
– Good value proposition for a full aluminum coil-on-cover solution.

Cons:
– While tall, they may offer slightly less clearance than the “Tall” specific versions.

Best for:
Enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, clean-looking coil-on-cover solution for standard LS engine dimensions.

Expert Opinion: The smooth finish and attention to detail in the baffling system make these a solid upgrade. They offer a great balance between quality construction and competitive pricing.

Aluminum Valve Cover For Predator 212 6.5HP Hemi Engine Harbor Freight Loncin Motor 210FA 212cc Engine Replace number: 60363

Note: While the majority of this article focuses on best ls valve covers, this product is specifically designed for the smaller Predator 212 and similar engines. Crafted from high-quality aluminum billet, this cover provides superior durability for small engines often used in go-karts or mini-bikes. The anodized coating protects against corrosion, and its precision design shields internal components from dust and water. It ensures optimal sealing with a specialized gasket and tapered thread design.

Key features that stand out:
– Superior Durability: Crafted from high-quality aluminum billet.
– Enhanced Protection: Shields valves and rocker arms from external elements.
– Optimal Sealing: Tapered thread design and specialized gasket prevent leaks.
– Complete Installation Kit: Includes pulse fittings, gasket, plug, and bolts.

Pros:
– Extreme strength and resistance to vibration (due to billet construction).
– Anodized coating ensures long lifespan.
– Perfect fitment for its intended small engine applications.

Cons:
– This product is not compatible with LS series V8 engines.

Best for:
Customizing or upgrading Predator 212 Hemi engines requiring maximum strength and sealing.

Expert Opinion: For its specific application, the billet aluminum construction is top-tier, offering much better longevity and sealing capability than stock covers on those small engines.

BTR LS Black Valve Cover Set With Coil Mounts

BTR (Brian Tooley Racing) is a name trusted in the LS performance community, and their valve cover set reflects that commitment to simplicity and quality. These black aluminum covers are designed specifically for LS engines and integrate the coil mounts directly onto the cover. This simple but effective design is a straightforward way to clean up the engine aesthetics while maintaining stock-like coil positioning and wire routing.

Key features that stand out:
– LS Engine Specific: Guaranteed fitment for a wide range of LS applications.
– Integrated Coil Mounts: Simple, clean coil-on-cover design.
– Trusted Brand: Manufactured by one of the leading LS aftermarket suppliers.
– Stealthy Appearance: Solid black finish for a subtle, aggressive look.

Pros:
– Backed by the reputation of BTR for quality.
– Extremely easy to install; often a direct swap.
– Excellent choice for engine builders who prefer minimal complexity.

Cons:
– Might not offer the extreme internal clearance of the “Tall” versions.

Best for:
LS enthusiasts who prioritize brand trust and need a reliable, high-quality, coil-on-cover solution without unnecessary fuss.

Expert Opinion: BTR keeps it simple here. You get what you pay for—a dependable, well-machined cover that solves the aesthetic issue of factory coil brackets efficiently.

LS Cast Black Aluminum Valve Covers Coil Mount Kit Replacement for Chevy Small Block SB V8 Gen III IV 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 6.7L # 8082-3BK, 8082-3, JM8082-3, JM8082-3BK

This cast aluminum kit is aimed at maximum compatibility and ease of installation across the popular GM Gen III/IV V8 family. Compatible with engines ranging from 4.8L up to 7.0L, these covers are designed to accept both Delco 510C and D580 style ignition coils, offering flexibility. The package is comprehensive, including low-profile oil fill caps and gaskets, ensuring you have everything needed for a clean install.

Key features that stand out:
– Broad Compatibility: Fits most common LS engine displacements (4.8L to 7.0L).
– Flexible Coil Provisions: Designed to accommodate multiple popular coil styles (Delco 510C and D580).
– Comprehensive Kit: Includes mounting hardware, spacers, gaskets, and caps.
– Warranty: Comes with a one-year manufacturing guarantee.

Pros:
– Very broad application range makes sourcing easy.
– Includes essential low-profile caps.
– Generous one-year guarantee for peace of mind.
– Effectively cleans up the valve cover area.

Cons:
– The included oil fill caps are functional but lack some aesthetic flair found in billet caps.

Best for:
Builders who need cross-platform compatibility for various LS Gen III/IV engine swaps and want flexible coil mounting options.

Expert Opinion: This set is a workhorse solution. Its ability to accept both older and newer coil styles makes it highly adaptable, and the robust cast construction ensures it can handle engine bay heat cycles reliably.

LS Cast Aluminum Tall Valve Covers w/Coil Mounts for LS1/ LS2/ LS3/ LS6/ LS7 or Similar Soils with 72mm Bolt Spacing – Black

If clearance is your primary concern, these “Tall” cast aluminum valve covers are purpose-built for you. They incorporate an additional 0.54 inches of internal height compared to factory covers, preventing contact between the valve cover and aggressive valvetrain components. They maintain the modern coil-on-cover look with integrated angled mounts and feature a resilient powder coating for long-term durability against corrosion.

Key features that stand out:
– Maximum Clearance: Adds 0.54″ height over factory covers for large rocker arms/springs.
– Angled Coil Mounts: Delivers a smooth, clean appearance.
– Long Life: High-quality cast aluminum construction with anti-corrosion powder coating.
– Includes Offset Bracket: Package provides an offset coil bracket for alternators positioned high up.

Pros:
– Essential clearance for radical camshaft and valvetrain setups.
– Highly durable construction and finish.
– Comes with the hard-to-find offset coil bracket.
– Integrated OE-style baffle system works well.

Cons:
– The tall profile may interfere with certain hood clearance or accessory placements on some older vehicles.

Best for:
Serious racing and high-performance applications where aggressive rocker arms or large valve springs mandate extra internal space.

Expert Opinion: When building a hot rod LS engine, valve spring and rocker clearance is non-negotiable. These are among the best ls valve covers because they proactively solve that common fitment headache while still offering superior aesthetics.

TBAPFS Cast Aluminum Valve Covers with Coil Mounts Compatible with LS Chevy Small Block SB V8 293 325 376 427 – Black

These TBAPFS cast aluminum covers are designed with both power and stability in mind. They feature a tall internal height to ensure proper valvetrain clearance without the need for additional brackets. The coil cover uses integrated cut-outs specifically for neatly routing the wiring harness and spark plug wires, contributing to a professional install. The classic, finned top adds a vintage touch to the modern LS design, marrying style with function.

Key features that stand out:
– Tall Internal Height: Ensures added valvetrain clearance.
– Efficient Wire Routing: Cut-outs in the coil cover manage wiring neatly.
– Classic Look: Finned top design adds aesthetic appeal.
– Excellent Sealing: High sealing performance gasket and silicone sealant included to prevent oil leaks.

Pros:
– Attractive finned design provides a unique look.
– Tall interior height simplifies high-performance builds.
– Dedicated routing for wiring harnesses ensures a clean appearance.
– Comprehensive package including high-performance gaskets.

Cons:
– The finned design requires more effort to keep clean than smooth covers.

Best for:
Builders who want a vintage aesthetic (finned look) combined with modern coil-on-cover functionality and guaranteed valvetrain clearance.

Expert Opinion: The inclusion of wire routing features is often overlooked but extremely helpful for achieving a tidy engine bay. These covers offer great sealing performance right out of the box, which is critical for long-term LS reliability.

Comparison Insights and Buying Advice

Choosing the right set of best ls valve covers comes down to two main factors: clearance and aesthetic preference.

If you have higher-lift rocker arms or dual springs, look specifically for “Tall” versions, such as the Htostar Racing Tall or the LS Cast Aluminum Tall Valve Covers. These provide that necessary 0.54” extra internal clearance to prevent costly contact. Standard height covers, while visually clean, might not offer enough internal space for aggressive cam setups.

For those prioritizing a clean aesthetic, integrated coil mounts are essential. All the reviewed LS-specific best ls valve covers featured integrated mounts, which eliminate the ugly factory coil brackets and streamline the look.

Consider the material and finish: Cast aluminum provides excellent rigidity and baffling, which is crucial for proper ventilation and oil separation. The powder-coated black finish seen on all these options is highly resistant to heat and chemicals, making cleanup easier than on bare aluminum or chrome. Always confirm the specific Delco coil compatibility (D580 vs. 510C) before purchase, especially if you are mixing components.

Final Verdict

Making the jump from stock stamped steel covers to aftermarket cast aluminum is a massive visual and functional upgrade.

For the Best All-Around Performer: The Htostar Racing Tall Valve Covers win for their perfect marriage of aesthetic refinement (angled mounts) and critical functional clearance (0.54″ taller). They are a complete package ideal for any performance build.

For the Budget-Conscious Enthusiast: The BTR LS Black Valve Cover Set offers unparalleled brand trust and quality without unnecessary features, providing a simple, durable coil-on-cover solution.

For Classic Looks with Modern Function: The TBAPFS Cast Aluminum Finned Covers are the clear choice if you want to capture a vintage hot rod feel while still benefiting from integrated coil mounts and tall internal height.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best LS Valve Covers

Do I need tall valve covers for my standard LS engine?

If your LS engine is stock or only has mild modifications (like a basic intake or exhaust), standard height covers are usually sufficient. However, if you have installed a high-performance camshaft requiring oversized valve springs or roller rocker arms, you will definitely need tall valve covers to ensure proper clearance and prevent internal components from damaging the cover.

Are aluminum valve covers better than stock plastic or steel?

Yes, cast aluminum valve covers are significantly better. They offer superior durability and heat dissipation compared to plastic or stamped steel. Aluminum also allows for better integrated baffling systems which are crucial for effective PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) operation and reducing oil consumption.

Will these valve covers work with coil relocation kits?

Most aftermarket best ls valve covers are designed to use integrated coil mounts to clean up the engine bay. If you purchase a cover with integrated mounts, you won’t need a relocation kit. If you specifically prefer a completely clean valve cover look, you would need to buy a coil relocation kit separately, along with a smooth, coil-less valve cover style.

What is the significance of the integrated coil mounts?

Integrated coil mounts allow the ignition coils to be bolted directly to the valve cover, eliminating the large, often unattractive, factory brackets. This provides a much cleaner, organized engine appearance and simplifies the routing of spark plug wires, making the coil-on-cover setup much more aesthetically pleasing.

What should I look for in the gasket material?

The best valve covers will include high-quality, durable silicone or Viton gaskets. These materials offer excellent resistance to oil, heat, and chemicals, ensuring a long-lasting, leak-free seal. Avoid thin rubber or cork gaskets often found in low-quality kits.

Does the baffle system matter when choosing valve covers?

Absolutely. The baffle system is critical for separating oil vapor from crankcase gases before the gas is reintroduced to the intake manifold (via the PCV system). A poorly designed baffle can lead to oil ingestion, excessive smoke, and performance degradation. All the high-quality best ls valve covers feature OE-style baffled ventilation systems for optimal engine health.