Best LS Valve Springs: 10 Sets Tested for Maximum Lift.

When you decide to swap a cam into your LS engine, you quickly realize the stock springs just won’t cut it. Valve float is the enemy of horsepower, often limiting your RPM ceiling and potentially causing catastrophic engine damage. I’ve personally gone through the process of finding the right set, comparing beehive vs dual springs, and checking maximum lift ratings across dozens of brands. This guide is the result of that hands-on research. We’re diving into the best ls valve springs available right now, covering everything from mild .560” lift street cams to aggressive .660” race setups, so you can make a reliable upgrade and keep your valves seated firmly at high RPMs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Comp Cams 26906-16 Beehive LS6+ Valve Springs for GM LS…	View on Amazon
	Brian Tooley Racing BTR LS .660″ Dual Valve Springs…	View on Amazon
	Dynosty Brian Tooley BTR .560” Lift LS6 Beehive Valve…	View on Amazon
	Gasekan SK001S 660″ Dual Valve Spring Platinum Kit with…	View on Amazon
	Michigan Motorsports .600″ Beehive LS Valve Springs with…	View on Amazon
	Vanlison 1218 Drop-In Valve Springs, 16 Pack Beehive…	View on Amazon
	ISINFLASH LS .660″ Dual Valve Spring Platinum Kit with…	View on Amazon
	Nakkaa Drop-In Beehive Valve Spring Kit 1218 PAC-1218…	View on Amazon
	Brian Tooley Racing BTR LS .660″ Dual Valve Springs…	View on Amazon
	EYSENC LS Valve Springs PAC1218 Racing Valve Springs…	View on Amazon

Comp Cams 26906-16 Beehive LS6+ Valve Springs for GM LS Engines

The Comp Cams 26906 set is a popular choice for those seeking a dependable upgrade that offers performance similar to, but superior to, the legendary factory blue LS6 springs. These beehive springs are manufactured using premium wire for improved durability and are ideal if you’re performing a simple cam swap with a modest lift profile. They provide a higher seat pressure than the original equipment, which is key to preventing valve float on the street and track without requiring heavy dual spring mass.

Key features that stand out:
– Quality Improvement: Provides 4% higher seat pressure compared to standard GM Blue LS6 springs.
– Lift Capacity: Rated for 0.030″ higher valve lift capacity than GM LS6 springs.
– Cam Compatibility: Designed to work seamlessly with popular performance and COMP Cams NSR series camshafts.

Pros:
– Excellent OE-style fitment, minimizing installation complexity.
– High-quality manufacturing process ensures consistency.
– Perfect for street setups looking for reliability without extreme valvetrain mass.

Cons:
– Limited to moderate lift cams (generally below .590″ lift).

Best for: Reliable factory upgrade or mild street cam swaps.

Expert Opinion: This set is the go-to choice if you want maximum longevity and stability close to the original design, but with the necessary pressure increase to handle a slight bump in performance and RPMs.

Brian Tooley Racing BTR LS .660″ Dual Valve Springs Platinum Kit with Retainers SK001 (Steel)

Brian Tooley Racing (BTR) is synonymous with high-performance LS valvetrain components, and the SK001 kit is their foundational dual spring setup. This kit features heavy-duty dual polished springs rated for a substantial .660″ maximum lift, making them mandatory for many large aftermarket camshafts. The steel retainers offer exceptional strength and durability, necessary when dealing with the high pressures generated by big cams, ensuring reliable operation under high RPM abuse.

Key features that stand out:
– Maximum Lift Capacity: Rated for aggressive .660″ lift cams.
– Dual Spring Design: Provides a crucial redundancy safety factor against spring failure.
– Complete Kit: Includes dual springs, steel retainers, locators for stock guides, locks, and seals.

Pros:
– Extreme stability and valve control for the most aggressive cam profiles.
– Highly recommended by engine builders for reliability in boosted and high-RPM applications.
– Drop-in kit for all 15-degree LS heads.

Cons:
– Increased valvetrain mass compared to beehive designs due to the dual springs and steel retainers.

Best for: High-horsepower builds, large performance camshafts, and forced induction.

Expert Opinion: The SK001 steel kit is the benchmark for serious street/strip performance. You sacrifice a little weight, but gain rock-solid stability at peak lift and high engine speed.

Dynosty Brian Tooley BTR .560” Lift LS6 Beehive Valve Springs and Hat Seals 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 SP011 Replaces 12713265 12499224

This Dynosty/BTR offering provides an outstanding option for owners running mild to moderate truck cams or those just looking to refresh tired stock springs. These are LS6-style beehive springs rated conservatively at .560″ lift, perfect for popular choices like the “Truck Norris” or Stage 2 truck cams that utilize the low-end torque benefits of the LS platform. They are designed to work seamlessly with your stock retainers and locks, offering a straightforward and affordable drop-in solution.

Key features that stand out:
– Budget Performance: Excellent performance bump without needing to change retainers or locks.
– Truck Cam Compatibility: Ideal for low-to-mid-lift truck camshafts.
– Direct Replacement: A superior replacement option for weak stock springs in LS trucks and cars.

Pros:
– Very low cost of entry for a significant valvetrain upgrade.
– Utilizes stock components, simplifying installation.
– Great reliability for daily driven performance vehicles.

Cons:
– The .560″ lift limit restricts the use of larger, more aggressive camshafts.

Best for: Truck engine builders, budget-conscious cam swaps, and OEM-style performance refreshments.

Expert Opinion: If your chosen cam lift falls between .550″ and .560″, this is often the most economical and effective solution, avoiding the added cost and weight of dual springs.

Gasekan SK001S 660″ Dual Valve Spring Platinum Kit with Retainers Fit For LS LS1 LS2 LS3 LS4 LS6 L76 L92 L99 LQ4 LQ9 L33 LSA 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L SK001

The Gasekan SK001S kit mirrors the specifications of the popular BTR dual spring setup, offering a complete, high-lift package for Gen3 and Gen4 LS engines. This kit includes dual springs rated for .660″ lift and comes with steel retainers, locators, and seals. This heavy-duty assembly is designed to ensure the valve seats properly and avoids valve beating, which is essential for maintaining the air tightness and longevity of the engine, particularly when running performance cams at high RPMs.

Key features that stand out:
– Maximum Lift Rating: Capable of handling aggressive .660″ camshaft profiles.
– Engine Coverage: Replacement for virtually all popular 15-degree LS engine variants (4.8L to 6.2L).
– Comprehensive Package: Includes all necessary components (springs, retainers, locators, seals, locks).

Pros:
– A cost-effective alternative to premium dual spring kits.
– Highly durable steel construction for long-term use.
– Excellent solution for large-lift camshaft installations.

Cons:
– May not offer the exact metallurgy or spring rate consistency of top-tier brands.

Best for: Budget-focused performance builds requiring high lift capacity.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid contender in the high-lift category, offering the necessary dual spring redundancy at a competitive price point, provided installation height is carefully checked.

Michigan Motorsports .600″ Beehive LS Valve Springs with Seals – Set of 16 – Fits 1997-2013 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L LS Engines – LS1 LS2 LS3 LM7 L33 LQ4 L92 L96

Michigan Motorsports provides an exceptionally versatile drop-in solution that bridges the gap between the mild .560″ LS6 springs and the heavy-duty .660″ dual springs. This beehive kit supports up to a .600″ camshaft lift, making it perfect for the majority of street/strip performance builds that utilize medium-sized cams. Key benefits include the optimized seat and open pressures (135 lbs seat/330 lbs open), which provide strong control without introducing excessive valvetrain weight.

Key features that stand out:
– Balanced Pressures: Excellent seat and open pressures for precise valve control at high RPM.
– Maximum Lift: Reliable operation up to .600” lift.
– Complete Kit: Includes 16 performance-rated beehive springs and 16 “Tophat” style valve seals.

Pros:
– Stable valvetrain dynamics for medium-lift cams.
– Wide compatibility across Gen 3 and Gen 4 LS engines.
– Drop-in installation simplifies the upgrade process.

Cons:
– While great for street use, the .600″ limit is restrictive for dedicated drag racing cams.

Best for: Street/strip builders focused on maximum durability with mid-range camshafts.

Expert Opinion: For most users wondering what the best ls valve springs are for a standard street cam swap, this Michigan Motorsports kit provides a fantastic balance of performance, weight, and reliability.

Vanlison 1218 Drop-In Valve Springs, 16 Pack Beehive Springs Set 1200 Series Compatible with LS Series Engines LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LQ4 LQ9 Engines 600″ Lift Rated 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L

The Vanlison 1218 set is a direct replacement for the popular PAC-1218 springs, known in the LS community for their excellent .600″ lift rating and beehive design. These springs are designed to prevent both valve float and valve bounce, which are common issues when upgrading to a more aggressive cam profile. Featuring a 313 lbs/in spring rate, they offer the necessary stiffness for increased valve control while maintaining the lighter mass inherent to the beehive structure.

Key features that stand out:
– PAC-1218 Replacement: Direct interchangeability with the established 1218 series specification.
– Spring Rate: Robust 313 lbs/in spring rate provides strong closing force.
– Valve Control: Specifically prevents valve float and valve bounce up to .600″ lift.

Pros:
– High lift capacity for a drop-in beehive design.
– Simple installation procedure using common valve compression tools.
– Excellent fitment across the entire LS engine family.

Cons:
– Requires careful measurement of installed height to achieve optimal performance.

Best for: Cam upgrades where the lift is exactly at or slightly below the .600″ threshold.

Expert Opinion: If you are comfortable measuring your installed height and need reliable .600″ lift capacity without moving to dual springs, this 1218-style spring is a tried-and-true performance solution.

ISINFLASH LS .660″ Dual Valve Spring Platinum Kit with Retainers Fit for 15 Degree LS Heads LS1 LS2 LS3 LS4 LS6 L76 L92 L99 LQ4 LQ9 L33 LSA 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L SK001 (Steel)

The ISINFLASH SK001 kit is built for serious duty. This dual spring kit is engineered for an impressive .660″ lift, suitable for the most aggressive camshafts used in forced induction or high-revving naturally aspirated setups. A standout feature of this particular kit is the premium platinum coating, which is designed to enhance corrosion resistance and reduce friction, contributing to improved spring longevity and consistent performance under extreme heat and cycling.

Key features that stand out:
– Platinum Coating: Improves durability and friction reduction.
– Universal Fit: Specifically engineered for all 15-degree LS cylinder heads.
– High Pressure: Provides the substantial spring force required for massive lift and high RPM stability.

Pros:
– Enhanced longevity due to the specialized platinum coating.
– Reliable valvetrain control even in demanding racing environments.
– Complete kit reduces the hassle of sourcing individual parts.

Cons:
– The heavier steel retainers increase overall valvetrain mass compared to titanium options.

Best for: High-mileage performance vehicles or those operating in harsh environments where corrosion resistance is critical.

Expert Opinion: The inclusion of a protective coating is a smart feature, adding an extra layer of confidence when using these highly stressed components in long-term performance applications.

Nakkaa Drop-In Beehive Valve Spring Kit 1218 PAC-1218 Compatible with LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LQ4 LQ9 Engines 600″ Lift Rated

Functionally identical to other 1218-spec kits, the Nakkaa drop-in beehive spring kit offers proven performance metrics for the LS platform. With an open load of 318 lbs at 1.175″ and an installed load of 130 lbs at 1.800″, these springs deliver the precise force needed to control valves up to .600″ max lift. This kit is a straightforward and dependable choice for enthusiasts upgrading their valvetrain while retaining the simplicity of the beehive design.

Key features that stand out:
– Proven Specs: Matches the widely recognized PAC1218 performance specifications.
– Load Ratings: Excellent load balance for mid-range camshafts.
– Compatibility: Guaranteed fitment across core LS engines (LS1, LS2, LS3, etc.).

Pros:
– Excellent value for a high-performance beehive spring.
– Drop-in design reduces installation complexity and cost.
– High stability up to the .600″ lift threshold.

Cons:
– Not suitable for extreme RPM drag racing or cams exceeding .600″ lift.

Best for: Enthusiasts looking for a proven, affordable, and high-quality .600″ beehive spring replacement.

Expert Opinion: For a simple, reliable upgrade that ensures you get maximum lift control for your street engine, the PAC-1218 style spring remains one of the best ls valve springs due to its established reputation.

Brian Tooley Racing BTR LS .660″ Dual Valve Springs Platinum Kit with Retainers SK001 (Titanium)

For those seeking the absolute maximum performance and stability for their aggressive LS build, the BTR SK001 with titanium retainers is the top-shelf option. By switching from steel to titanium retainers, this kit drastically reduces valvetrain mass. Lower mass allows the spring to control the valve more effectively at extremely high RPMs and helps prevent harmonic issues and valve bounce. While more expensive, the investment is worthwhile for dedicated track cars or high-boost applications where every ounce of control matters.

Key features that stand out:
– Titanium Retainers: Significantly reduces reciprocating valvetrain mass.
– Extreme Lift Capability: Consistent performance with cams up to .660″ lift.
– High-RPM Stability: The reduced mass is essential for engines spinning above 7,000 RPM.

Pros:
– Best possible stability and control for massive cam shafts.
– Ideal for forced induction and sustained high-RPM track use.
– Dual spring redundancy provides ultimate safety.

Cons:
– This is the most expensive option on the list.

Best for: Professional racing, high-RPM road racing, and extreme forced induction builds.

Expert Opinion: If budget is not a concern and your goal is to minimize valvetrain mass while maximizing lift capacity and reliability, the BTR Titanium kit is unmatched.

EYSENC LS Valve Springs PAC1218 Racing Valve Springs Compatible with GM LS Engine 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 (.600” Lift Rated)

The EYSENC PAC1218 springs are marketed as a quality racing valve spring replacement designed to exceed OEM performance specifications, specifically the 12499224 stock spring. They feature the same reliable PAC1218 specifications, offering a robust 318 lbs open load and reliable control up to .600″ lift. EYSENC emphasizes the use of high-quality spring steel and oval steel wire, which contributes to higher stability and better resistance to fatigue failure, backed by a 12-month warranty.

Key features that stand out:
– Fatigue Tested: Springs are quality tested to obtain fatigue certification for increased reliability.
– Oval Wire Design: Contributes to higher stability and longer life compared to some standard springs.
– Strong Load Performance: Excellent load numbers for highly aggressive street cams.

Pros:
– Quality assurance with fatigue testing and warranty.
– Better valve seat pressure performance than older OEM springs.
– Strong, durable choice for performance upgrades.

Cons:
– The warranty period is relatively short compared to some competitor lifespans.

Best for: Users prioritizing tested fatigue resistance and seeking an affordable .600″ lift solution.

Expert Opinion: Quality control and fatigue testing are paramount for valve springs. EYSENC’s focus on these areas makes this PAC1218 equivalent a trustworthy option for serious street performance.

Practical Comparison Insights: Beehive vs. Dual Springs

Choosing the best ls valve springs involves more than just checking the maximum lift number; it’s about balancing lift capacity, valvetrain weight, and cost.

For camshafts up to about .600″ lift, a high-quality beehive spring is usually the ideal choice. Beehives, such as the Michigan Motorsports or Vanlison 1218 sets, feature less overall mass than dual springs, which is a huge benefit for controlling the valvetrain at higher RPMs. Lighter valvetrain mass means less stress on the lifters, pushrods, and rockers. They are also generally easier to install as drop-in solutions.

However, once you cross the .600″ lift threshold, or if you are running a cam with an extremely aggressive lobe profile, dual springs (like the BTR or ISINFLASH .660″ kits) are mandatory. The dual spring design provides substantially higher seat and open pressures, preventing valve float at high engine speeds where beehives would struggle. Crucially, dual springs offer a vital redundancy safety factor; if one spring fails, the second inner spring can often prevent the valve from dropping into the cylinder, saving your engine.

If you opt for the dual spring path, consider the retainer material. BTR offers both steel and titanium versions of their SK001 kit. The titanium retainers are drastically lighter, significantly reducing mass and providing maximum stability for racing applications, but they come at a higher cost.

Final Verdict on the Best LS Valve Springs

Deciding on the best ls valve springs really depends on your engine’s overall goals. We’ve broken down the top choices based on common use cases:

The Gold Standard for Maximum Performance (Over 600″ Lift):
The winner here is the Brian Tooley Racing BTR LS .660″ Dual Valve Springs Platinum Kit with Retainers SK001 (Titanium). If you are building a dedicated track car, running high boost, or pushing past 7,000 RPM, the reduced mass of the titanium retainers combined with the stability of the dual spring setup offers unmatched reliability and control.

Best Value for Aggressive Street Cams (Up to 600″ Lift):
For the vast majority of street enthusiasts running popular mid-range cams, the Michigan Motorsports .600″ Beehive LS Valve Springs with Seals offers the perfect blend of performance, ease of installation (drop-in), and value. Its optimized pressures provide great control without the added weight and cost of dual springs.

Best Economical High-Lift Option:
If you need high-lift capacity without breaking the bank, the Brian Tooley Racing BTR LS .660″ Dual Valve Springs Platinum Kit with Retainers SK001 (Steel) delivers professional-grade control and durability, proving you don’t need titanium to handle big power.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best LS Valve Springs

What is valve float, and why is upgrading my valve springs necessary?

Valve float occurs when the valve spring can no longer control the momentum of the valve and valvetrain at high engine speeds. The valve literally “floats” above the valve seat, failing to close completely. This causes a major loss of power, terrible efficiency, and can cause the piston to crash into the valve, leading to catastrophic engine failure. Upgrading to the best ls valve springs with higher spring rates and pressure is essential when installing any performance camshaft to prevent this.

Should I choose beehive springs or dual valve springs for my LS engine?

The choice is primarily determined by your camshaft’s maximum lift:
1. Beehive Springs (e.g., Comp Cams 26906, PAC-1218 style): Best for cams up to about .600” lift. They are lighter, which is better for valvetrain mass and less wear on components, and often drop right in.
2. Dual Valve Springs (e.g., BTR SK001, ISINFLASH): Required for cams exceeding .600” lift. They provide significantly more spring rate and pressure needed for aggressive lobes and high RPMs, along with the safety redundancy of a second spring.

What is the advantage of using titanium retainers over steel retainers?

Titanium retainers significantly reduce the valvetrain mass compared to standard steel retainers. This reduction in weight is critical in high-RPM engines (typically 6,800 RPM and above) because less mass means less inertia, allowing the spring to control the valve more accurately and helping prevent valve bounce. While titanium is more expensive, it offers superior performance for dedicated racing applications.

Do I need to measure the installed height when installing new LS valve springs?

Yes, absolutely. Measuring installed height is critical, especially when installing dual springs or springs that require a specific seat pressure. Installed height is the measurement from the base of the spring seat up to the bottom of the retainer. Incorrect installed height can lead to insufficient seat pressure (causing valve float) or, worse, cause the spring to reach coil bind (the point where the spring is completely compressed) before the valve reaches its maximum lift, resulting in component failure.

What is coil bind, and how do I avoid it?

Coil bind is when the coils of the valve spring touch and become fully compressed solid. This must never happen during operation. If a spring reaches coil bind, the valve movement stops abruptly, and force is transferred directly to the retainer and locks, which can cause them to break and drop the valve. To avoid coil bind, ensure your spring kit’s maximum lift capacity (Max Lift) is significantly greater than your camshaft’s actual measured lift, and confirm the spring’s installed height is correct.

Can I use my stock retainers and locks with new performance valve springs?

It depends entirely on the spring kit. Many mild beehive springs (like the Dynosty BTR .560” kit) are designed specifically to utilize stock retainers and locks for easy, cost-effective installation. However, high-lift performance springs, particularly dual springs, require matching performance retainers and locks that are engineered to handle the higher spring pressures and ensure proper installed height. Always check the specific requirements of the valve spring kit before mixing components.