When it comes to engine maintenance, every detail matters. One often overlooked component is the crank bolt. If you're dealing with a GM LS engine, the LS ARP Crank Bolt is a critical part to consider. This blog will walk you through the importance of using the right crank bolt and why you should upgrade to a high-quality option.

Why the Right Crank Bolt Matters

Choosing the right crank bolt for your engine is crucial. The crank bolt secures the crankshaft pulley, which drives multiple accessories like the alternator, water pump, and power steering pump. If the crank bolt fails, it can lead to severe engine damage. The LS ARP Crank Bolt is designed to provide superior strength and reliability, ensuring your engine runs smoothly.

The crankshaft sees immense kinetic energy. Both twisting and lateral loads are exerted on this area, and to an even greater degree on belt-driven supercharged cars. This makes the crank bolt one of the most critical fasteners in your engine. Using a bolt that can handle these stresses is essential for maintaining engine integrity.

Features of the LS ARP Crank Bolt

The LS ARP Crank Bolt stands out for several reasons:

1. Extra Length: This bolt is longer than the stock version, offering 32mm of engagement compared to the OEM's 22mm. This extra length ensures better thread engagement, even if the first few millimeters are damaged. It travels further into the threaded crank snout, giving your damaged crankshaft new life.

2. Superior Strength: Made from Grade 12.9 material, the bolt has a tensile strength of 197,000 PSI. This makes it incredibly durable and capable of withstanding the stresses placed on the crankshaft.

3. Reusable: Unlike OEM fasteners, which are one-time-use and must be replaced after each use, the LS ARP Crank Bolt can be reused. This makes it a cost-effective choice for regular engine maintenance.

4. Complete Kit: The bolt comes with a washer plate and Moly Assembly Lube. The washer plate is a full 1/4" thick, providing superior clamp load to the balancer. The included Moly Assembly Lube ensures proper installation and torque, reducing the risk of galling.

Installation Tips

Proper installation of the LS ARP Crank Bolt is key to its performance. Here are some tips to ensure you do it right:

1. Clean the Threads: Make sure the crank snout threads are clean. Any debris can affect the bolt's engagement and lead to improper installation. Use a thread chaser to clean out any material in the threads.

2. Use the Right Tools: Never use the crank bolt to install the pulley. Use the appropriate tool to avoid damaging the threads. The crank bolt should only be used to secure the pulley, not to draw it down.

3. Apply Lubrication: Use the provided Moly Assembly Lube on the bolt to ensure proper torque and prevent galling. The lube helps achieve the correct torque specification and reduces friction during installation.

4. Torque Specifications: Follow the manufacturer's torque specifications carefully. Over-tightening or under-tightening can lead to bolt failure or insufficient clamp load.

Benefits of Upgrading

Upgrading to the LS ARP Crank Bolt offers several benefits:

1. Increased Reliability: The enhanced thread engagement and superior strength reduce the risk of bolt failure. This is especially important in high-performance applications where the engine experiences increased stress.

2. Cost Savings: The bolt's reusability means you don't have to replace it every time you perform maintenance. This can save you money in the long run, especially if you frequently work on your engine.

3. Better Performance: The extra clamp load provided by the longer bolt improves the overall performance of your engine, especially in high-stress situations like racing or heavy-duty applications. The increased thread engagement ensures a more secure connection, reducing the risk of the pulley coming loose.

4. Enhanced Durability: The high-strength material and superior design of the LS ARP Crank Bolt ensure it can withstand the rigors of high-performance use. This enhances the overall durability of your engine.

To Sum Up,

Choosing the right crank bolt is essential for maintaining your engine's performance and reliability. The Massive Speed System’s LS ARP Crank Bolt offers superior strength, increased thread engagement, and reusability, making it an excellent choice for any GM LS engine. Upgrade to the LS ARP Crank Bolt and Ecoboost timing tool today and experience the difference in your engine's performance and longevity.

By investing in a high-quality crank bolt, you can ensure that your engine runs smoothly and reliably, even under the most demanding conditions. Don’t compromise on this critical component—opt for the LS ARP Crank Bolt and enjoy peace of mind knowing your engine is equipped with the best.