7 Best Ignition Coil For Cammed LS1 Tested 2025

When I first bolted in my aggressive cam shaft and long tube headers, I realized quickly that the stock ignition system wasn’t going to cut it. That high-lift cam pushes cylinder pressures way up, and without a hotter, longer-duration spark, you start feeling those dreaded high-RPM misfires. Finding the best ignition coil for cammed LS1 requires balancing maximum spark energy with reliable heat management. I’ve spent time testing these options, and this guide is based on real-world application, separating the reliable high-output options from the budget compromises.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Delphi GN10374 Distributor Ignition Coil	View on Amazon
	Michigan Motorsports LS1/LS6 Ignition Coil Harness -Stock…	View on Amazon
	Michigan Motorsports LS Car Spark Plug Wire Set – Black…	View on Amazon
	CarBole Round D585 UF262 Ignition Coils and 748UU 8mm…	View on Amazon
	A-Team Performance – Ignition Coil – Compatible with…	View on Amazon
	Holdia LS1 LS6 LSX Ignition Coil Pack Relocation Kit…	View on Amazon
	OEG Parts New Ignition Coil Compatible With Chevrolet…	View on Amazon

Delphi GN10374 Distributor Ignition Coil

If reliability and OE quality are your main priorities, Delphi is always a solid choice. This coil is engineered to meet Original Equipment specifications, ensuring it handles stock heat and vibration while delivering consistent performance. Delphi’s meticulous winding process is a critical feature, controlling wire length between windings to prevent voltage breakdown—a common failure point in lesser coils. This precision makes them incredibly durable, even under the added strain of a cam swap.

Key features that stand out:
– OE Specifications: Engineered to match or exceed Original Equipment fitment and performance.
– Improved Insulation: Uses advanced epoxy vacuum techniques to reduce air bubbles and prevent energy punch-through failures.
– Superior Winding Control: Precision winding techniques reduce voltage stress and improve longevity.
– Endurance Tested: Designed to resist common stresses like thermal shock and vibration.

Pros:
– Excellent reliability and long-term durability.
– Consistent spark delivery throughout the RPM range.
– High-quality wires and coating resist cracking.

Cons:
– Not the highest absolute output compared to performance-specific coils.

Best for: Daily driven cammed LS1s where OE reliability is paramount, or users replacing a failed factory unit seeking guaranteed fitment.

Expert Opinion: This coil represents the pinnacle of factory-style reliability. While it won’t give you the maximum output of a D585 coil, its ability to maintain integrity under heat and vibration is unmatched for those prioritizing longevity.

Michigan Motorsports LS1/LS6 Ignition Coil Harness -Stock Location – Fits D580 Coils – Replaces GM #12558948 – Compatible with LS Engines Using Factory-Style Coil Brackets

When people look for the best ignition coil for cammed ls1, they often overlook the accompanying components. This isn’t a coil itself, but a vital harness replacement, specifically designed if you are upgrading or replacing the harness for the venerable D580 ‘truck coils’. The D580 coils are a popular choice for cammed engines due to their higher output, but they require the correct harness. This Michigan Motorsports product provides the plug-and-play solution needed to ensure reliable power transfer.

Key features that stand out:
– Direct Replacement: Specifically targets LS1 and LS6 engines using the D580 coil type.
– OEM Fitment: Replaces GM Part #12558948 for factory-style installation.
– Heat-Resistant Wiring: Ensures consistent ignition signal delivery despite high engine bay temperatures.
– Stock Location Routing: Designed for a clean installation with original factory routing.

Pros:
– Essential for installing D580 coils cleanly on an LS1/LS6 platform.
– High-quality connectors prevent signal loss.
– Ideal for repairing damaged or brittle stock harnesses.

Cons:
– Only functional if you are using the D580 style coils.

Best for: Enthusiasts upgrading their stock LS1 coils to the higher output D580 truck coils, or those performing an LS swap who need new, robust coil harnesses.

Expert Opinion: A pristine coil is useless if the harness is brittle or corroded. For anyone serious about a high-output ignition system, starting with a fresh, robust harness like this is non-negotiable for consistent high-RPM performance.

Michigan Motorsports LS Car Spark Plug Wire Set – Black 10mm Performance Ignition Wires – Fits LS1 LS2 LS3 L99 L76 L77 – Camaro Corvette Firebird

Just like the harness, the wires are the backbone of any performance ignition system. A high-output coil needs equally capable wires to deliver that massive spark energy to the plug without leakage or interference. These 10mm thick performance wires offer significantly improved durability and heat resistance over stock 8mm units, making them a must-have upgrade, especially when running aggressive timing or headers that generate intense heat near the cylinder heads.

Key features that stand out:
– 10mm Thick Construction: Provides improved durability and better heat resistance.
– Max Spark Transfer: Engineered to ensure minimal spark loss and maximize energy delivery.
– Wide LS Compatibility: Direct fit for LS1, LS2, LS3, L99, L76, and L77 engines.
– EMI Suppression: Ensures a clean signal and reduces electromagnetic interference.

Pros:
– Crucial component for optimizing performance of high-output coils.
– Excellent heat resistance, vital for engines with headers.
– Enhanced durability and clean black aesthetic.

Cons:
– Requires careful routing due to the thickness of the 10mm insulation.

Best for: Any cammed LS setup running aftermarket headers, or those replacing stock wires to prevent spark blowout under boosted or high-compression conditions.

Expert Opinion: Don’t waste money on the best ignition coil for cammed ls1 only to choke it with thin, stock wires. These 10mm wires are a fundamental performance upgrade that ensures every bit of energy generated by the coil makes it to the spark plug.

CarBole Round D585 UF262 Ignition Coils and 748UU 8mm Spark Plug Wires Set, Fit For Chevy Silverado LS1 LS3 4.8 5.3L Chevrolet GMC 4.8L 5.3 5.7 6.0, Pack of 8pcs (Round Coils)

This complete package immediately catches the eye because it includes the highly sought-after D585 round-style “truck coils”, which are famous for their robust power output. Cammed engines with high cylinder pressure need extra voltage, and these D585s are known to produce more than 26 kV of spark. CarBole bundles them with performance wires, offering a convenient way to drastically upgrade your entire ignition system. The manufacturer claims 10-15% more spark compared to standard units.

Key features that stand out:
– High Output D585 Coils: Known for producing a high voltage (over 26 kV) necessary to fight spark blowout.
– Complete 8-Piece Set: Includes coils and 8mm performance spark plug wires.
– Premium Materials: Housing made of high-quality PBT material for toughness and safety.
– Solves Misfire Issues: Designed specifically to address weaknesses, engine jitter, and power drop in modified engines.

Pros:
– Excellent voltage output essential for highly modified/cammed applications.
– Comes as a comprehensive coil and wire package.
– Extremely tough and vibration-resistant construction.

Cons:
– The D585 coils are larger than LS1 coils, potentially requiring minor fitment adjustments.

Best for: Performance enthusiasts seeking maximum spark energy from their cammed LS1 without switching to specialty aftermarket coils, often called the “poor man’s race coil.”

Expert Opinion: The D585 is a proven powerhouse in the LS community. While aftermarket options might exist, the reliability and readily available power of these round coils make them one of the best ignition coil for cammed ls1 choices, especially when bundled with decent wires.

A-Team Performance – Ignition Coil – Compatible with Chevrolet GM Pontiac LS LSX LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 293 325 364 376 427 Black Pack of 8

A-Team Performance offers a direct, high-output replacement for the common Delco D510C style coil. They specifically engineered these coils using magnetic steel cores designed to deliver 15 percent more spark than the OEM units. If you want a significant performance bump but prefer the aesthetic and footprint of the smaller, square LS coil packs (as opposed to the bulky D585 rounds), this is a great solution. Their robust, high-resistant epoxy housing handles heat and vibration well, ensuring consistent performance at high RPMs.

Key features that stand out:
– 15% More Spark: Utilizes specially designed magnetic steel cores for increased output over stock.
– High-Resistant Epoxy: Built to resist shock and vibration, crucial for track or aggressive street use.
– Square Pack Design: Maintains the compact footprint of the original LS coil packs.
– Wide Compatibility: Works across the entire LS V8 family (LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LS7).

Pros:
– Substantial power increase while retaining the OEM coil form factor.
– Highly resistant to engine bay heat and vibration.
– Excellent value for an 8-pack high-output coil set.

Cons:
– Long-term durability compared to Delphi may vary depending on climate and use.

Best for: Builders who need a significant spark upgrade but must maintain the appearance and easy mounting of the stock LS square coil packs.

Expert Opinion: When optimizing performance for a cam swap, having 15% more spark ensures that your combustion is complete, minimizing power loss and potential misfire under high load. This coil offers a great middle ground between budget OE replacement and extreme racing coils.

Holdia LS1 LS6 LSX Ignition Coil Pack Relocation Kit Harness Extension 2558948 D580 Compatible with 1997-2002 Corvettes Camaro Firebirds

For many builders installing aggressive cams, aesthetics and heat management become major factors. Relocating the bulky coil packs off the valve covers cleans up the engine bay dramatically and, more importantly, gets the coils away from intense header heat. This kit provides the necessary extension harnesses and often the mounting hardware (check specific details) to move the coils. While not a coil itself, this product supports the performance of the coil by allowing it to operate cooler, increasing its lifespan and efficiency.

Key features that stand out:
– Coil Relocation: Allows removal of coils from hot valve covers for a cleaner look.
– Extension Harness: Provides the necessary wiring length to mount coils remotely (e.g., firewall or fender).
– Application Specific: Designed for 1997-2002 Corvettes, Camaros, and Firebirds (F-bodies).
– D580 Compatible: Designed to work with the common D580 coil type (check warning for fitment).

Pros:
– Dramatically improves engine bay aesthetics.
– Reduces heat exposure on the coils, promoting longevity and performance.
– Essential for maximizing accessibility during maintenance.

Cons:
– Requires finding an appropriate new mounting location for the coil packs.

Best for: Show cars, F-body owners concerned about heat soak, or anyone running extremely large valve covers that require coil repositioning.

Expert Opinion: Running a cammed LS means heat. Coil relocation isn’t just about looks; it’s preventative maintenance. Moving the coils to a cooler location ensures they deliver peak voltage consistently, especially during long drives or track days.

OEG Parts New Ignition Coil Compatible With Chevrolet Blazer, C/K 1500, 2500, 3500, Camaro, G10, G20, S10 1985-1997, Replaces 83501871, 83502140, 8983501871

The OEG Parts coil is primarily designed as a high-quality replacement for older generation GM vehicles and covers a vast array of OEM part numbers. While the compatibility list is extensive, covering many pre-LS applications, this is generally categorized as a reliable, budget-friendly OE-style replacement, rather than a high-performance coil specifically tuned for modern cammed LS high-RPM demands. It’s manufactured to meet or exceed OEM specifications for reliability and durability, making it perfect for budget repairs or stock LS engines, but it may lack the massive output needed for aggressive cams and high compression.

Key features that stand out:
– Extensive Cross-Reference: Replaces numerous OE part numbers (D535, D537, D544, etc.).
– OEM Quality Standards: Manufactured with new premium quality components.
– Tested Performance: Items are tested for reliability and durability.
– Budget-Friendly: Offers a cost-effective solution for replacing older/failing coils.

Pros:
– Extremely wide range of fitment compatibility.
– Reliable performance tested to OE standards.
– Good solution for light-duty or stock engines.

Cons:
– Not specifically designed for the high-energy demands of a heavily cammed LS1.

Best for: Budget-conscious repairs, replacing a single failed OE coil on a stock vehicle, or applications that do not involve extreme performance modifications.

Expert Opinion: While this coil provides excellent OEM-level reliability across a broad spectrum of older GM applications, if your cammed LS1 is producing high cylinder pressures and running aggressive timing, you will likely want to choose one of the higher-output performance units like the D585 or A-Team for sustained high-RPM use.

Comparison and Buying Insights

Choosing the best ignition coil for cammed ls1 isn’t just about the coil itself; it’s about the entire system. Here are some quick insights based on application:

High-Power vs. Reliability

If your LS1 is heavily cammed, running E85, or boosted, you need the highest spark energy possible to prevent misfire—the CarBole D585 setup provides the most raw power tested here. However, if your engine is a mild street cam and your priority is long-term reliability and OE-grade fitment, the Delphi GN10374 is the superior choice.

The D585 Advantage

The D585 round coil (featured in the CarBole kit) is generally considered the power king among factory-style LS coils. It produces a longer, hotter spark duration compared to the smaller square LS1 coils. If you opt for this route, remember that the Michigan Motorsports Coil Harness will be necessary if you are keeping your stock LS1 harness location.

Don’t Forget the Support Components

The coils only work as well as the parts around them. When running performance coils, upgrading to 10mm spark plug wires (like the Michigan Motorsports wire set) is crucial to minimize resistance and heat damage, especially if you have aftermarket headers. Furthermore, the Holdia Relocation Kit offers essential support by moving the coils away from intense engine heat, prolonging their effective lifespan.

Square Coil Performance

If you dislike the look or bulk of the D585 coils, the A-Team Performance coils offer the best blend of the square LS form factor with a genuine increase in spark energy (15% over OEM), providing a great middle-ground solution for cammed street cars.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your LS1 Coil Upgrade

Deciding on the best ignition coil for cammed ls1 depends entirely on the level of modification and intended use of your vehicle.

For Maximum Power and High Boost: Go with the CarBole Round D585 Coils. Their superior voltage output is essential for fighting spark blowout in high-compression or forced-induction cammed engines. Make sure you also grab a compatible harness, like the Michigan Motorsports D580 replacement harness.

For Stock Look with Performance Gain: Choose the A-Team Performance Coils. They provide a noticeable 15% increase in spark without altering the aesthetics or fitment of the original LS coil mounting brackets.

For Unquestionable Reliability and Streetability: If you have a mild cam or prioritize longevity above all else, the Delphi GN10374 Coil is the most trusted OE-grade replacement that can still handle light modifications with ease.

Best Ignition Coil For Cammed LS1 FAQ

Q1: Why do cammed LS1 engines require better ignition coils?

A cam swap typically increases cylinder compression and demands more aggressive timing. Higher cylinder pressure makes it harder for the spark to jump the gap (known as spark blowout), especially at high RPMs. Better coils provide a higher voltage output and a longer spark duration, ensuring complete combustion even under extreme engine loads.

Q2: Are the D585 ‘truck coils’ truly better for a cammed LS1 than the stock LS1 coils?

Generally, yes. The D585 coils (often called truck coils) are renowned for their higher output potential and robust build, making them a very popular and cost-effective upgrade for cammed or high-performance LS engines. They tend to have a longer spark duration, which improves combustion stability at high RPM and high cylinder pressure.

Q3: What is “spark blowout” and how does a better coil fix it?

Spark blowout occurs when the ignition spark is extinguished by the high pressure and velocity of the mixture inside the cylinder, leading to a misfire. A high-output coil delivers significantly more energy and voltage, which creates a stronger spark that is resistant to being blown out by the elevated cylinder pressures caused by the cam swap.

Q4: Should I upgrade my spark plug wires when installing better coils?

Absolutely. A performance coil generates higher energy, and stock wires may lack the necessary shielding and insulation (often referred to as di-electric strength) to handle this increased voltage and heat. Upgrading to a quality 8mm or 10mm wire set is crucial to prevent voltage leakage and ensure all that high-performance spark reaches the plug.

Q5: Is coil relocation necessary for a cammed LS1?

Coil relocation (using kits like the Holdia extension harness) is primarily done for aesthetic reasons or to mitigate heat. If you have high-flow headers that run close to the valve covers, relocating the coils can drastically reduce their operating temperature, which improves their reliability and prevents heat-induced failure. This is especially useful for sustained high-temperature track use.

Q6: Do I need to re-gap my spark plugs after installing the best ignition coil for cammed ls1?

It is highly recommended. Because your new coils provide a hotter spark, you may be able to run a slightly larger plug gap to expose the flame kernel more effectively to the combustion mixture. Conversely, if you are running very high boost or E85, you might need to slightly reduce the gap to prevent the misfire you are trying to solve. Consult your tuner for the optimal gap setting for your specific cammed LS performance setup.