Best LS Heads for 6.0 Engines Featuring 5 Quality Options

I’ve spent countless hours wrenching on LS engines, and one question always pops up: what are the best cylinder heads for a 6.0L? This isn’t a simple answer, as the “best” depends heavily on your budget and performance goals. This guide will walk you through five solid options, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, so you can make an informed decision for your next build or rebuild. We’ll cover everything from bare heads ready for customization to remanufactured units offering a cost-effective solution.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	EngineQuest GM LS Cylinder Head #5364, 821, 823 | Bare…	View on Amazon
	BTR Brian Tooley Racing MLS LS3 Cylinder Head Gasket Pair…	View on Amazon
	MWBJ Racing BTR LS3 Multi-Layer MLS Head Gaskets (Pair)…	View on Amazon
	GM LS3 L92 6.0L 6.2L Cylinder Head REMANUFACTURED 823…	View on Amazon
	GM LS3 L92 6.0L 6.2L Cylinder Heads REMANUFACTURED 823…	View on Amazon

EngineQuest GM LS Cylinder Head #5364, 821, 823 | Bare

EngineQuest offers a solid foundation for your 6.0L build with these bare cylinder heads. They’re a direct replacement for many GM LS engines, making installation relatively straightforward. The improved water flow and thicker deck are definite pluses, contributing to better cooling and durability. These heads are a great option if you plan on extensive porting and polishing work to really tailor them to your specific needs.

• High-quality aluminum construction
• Direct replacement for various GM LS engines (6.0L/6.2L)
• Optimized water flow and thicker deck
• 65cc chamber volume, 258cc intake, 87cc exhaust
• Lightweight design (22 lbs per head)
• 1-Year Parts & Labor Warranty

Pros:
– Affordable
– Durable construction
– Good platform for modifications

Cons:
– Bare heads require additional work before installation
– May not offer significant performance gains out of the box

User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive reviews praise the quality and fitment. Some users point out the need for machining or porting for optimal performance.

BTR Brian Tooley Racing MLS LS3 Cylinder Head Gasket Pair

These aren’t cylinder heads themselves, but rather high-performance head gaskets – a crucial component often overlooked. BTR’s MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) gaskets are designed for serious builds, offering superior sealing at high boost or nitrous applications. If you’re pushing your 6.0L to its limits, these gaskets are a must-have for preventing leaks and maintaining consistent compression.

• Complete head gasket set (pair)
• Fits various 6.0L & 6.2L LS rectangle-port engines
• Multi-layer steel construction for high-strength sealing
• Proven performance in high-horsepower applications
• Suitable for stock rebuilds or high-performance builds

Pros:
– Superior sealing under pressure
– Durable construction
– Excellent for high-performance builds

Cons:
– More expensive than standard gaskets
– Not needed for stock or mildly modified engines

User Feedback Summary: Users consistently report excellent sealing and reliability, especially under high-performance conditions.

MWBJ Racing BTR LS3 Multi-Layer MLS Head Gaskets (Pair)

Another excellent option for high-performance head gaskets, these MWBJ Racing BTR gaskets offer a similar level of quality to the Brian Tooley Racing gaskets above at a potentially more competitive price point. The multi-layer steel construction ensures a strong seal, crucial for boosted or high-compression setups.

• Fits 1999-2013 LS-based 6.0L and 6.2L engines
• Includes two BTR-10046 gaskets
• Multi-layer steel (MLS) construction
• 100″ bore, .051″ compressed thickness
• Matches OEM quality and durability

Pros:
– Cost-effective compared to some competitors
– Strong sealing for high-performance applications
– Good reputation

Cons:
– Still a premium option compared to standard gaskets

User Feedback Summary: Positive feedback emphasizes the quality and sealing capabilities, making them a popular choice for performance builds.

GM LS3 L92 6.0L 6.2L Cylinder Head REMANUFACTURED 823

Remanufactured heads provide a cost-effective alternative to buying brand new. These GM heads have undergone a complete rebuild process, including thorough cleaning, valve job, new seals, and pressure testing. They offer a reliable solution if you’re on a budget but still need dependable performance. Always check the specific details of the remanufacturing process before purchasing.

• Completely disassembled and cleaned
• Pressure tested for integrity
• New valve seats and stem seals as needed
• Valve job performed to specifications
• Meets AERA specifications

Pros:
– More affordable than new heads
– Good quality and reliability
– Convenient option

Cons:
– Not as customizable as bare heads
– Warranty may vary

User Feedback Summary: Reviews generally highlight the cost savings and good performance of these remanufactured heads. As always with remanufactured parts, variability in quality can exist depending on the supplier.

GM LS3 L92 6.0L 6.2L Cylinder Heads REMANUFACTURED 823

Similar to the previous remanufactured heads, this option presents another opportunity for cost-effective repair or upgrade. The key here is to thoroughly research the seller and ensure they meet your standards for quality and refurbishment.

• Completely disassembled and cleaned
• Pressure tested for integrity
• New valve seats and stem seals as needed
• Valve job performed to specifications
• Meets AERA specifications

Pros:
– Cost-effective
– Good option for a budget-friendly rebuild

Cons:
– Quality can vary depending on the seller
– Limited customization options

User Feedback Summary: Check reviews carefully for the specific seller you are considering. Look for consistent mentions of quality control and customer service.

Practical Buying Advice

Choosing the right LS heads for your 6.0L comes down to your budget and goals. If you’re aiming for a high-performance build, bare heads allow for extensive customization, but require more work. Remanufactured heads offer a good balance of cost and performance, while high-quality head gaskets are a crucial element for any serious build regardless of the head choice. Always double-check compatibility with your specific engine before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the benefits of upgrading LS heads on a 6.0L engine?
A: Upgraded heads can significantly improve airflow, leading to increased horsepower and torque. Larger valves, optimized porting, and improved combustion chamber design all contribute to these gains.

Q: What’s the difference between bare and remanufactured heads?
A: Bare heads are completely unmachined and require significant work before installation. Remanufactured heads have been completely rebuilt and are ready to install.

Q: How important are head gaskets in a performance build?
A: Head gaskets are critical, especially in high-performance applications. MLS gaskets are preferred for their ability to withstand high pressure and temperatures.

Q: Can I install these heads myself?
A: While possible, installing cylinder heads requires mechanical skill and experience. Consider professional installation if you’re not comfortable with the task.

Q: What should I look for when buying remanufactured heads?
A: Look for reputable sellers with clear details about the remanufacturing process, including what parts are replaced and the quality control measures taken. A warranty is also a good indicator of confidence in the product.

Q: How much horsepower gain can I expect with upgraded heads?
A: The horsepower gain depends on many factors, including the specific heads, other engine modifications, and tuning. Expect gains ranging from moderate to substantial, depending on the setup.