SKU: BTRTK001NB
MPN: TK001NB
The Brian Tooley Racing Rocker Arm Trunnion Upgrade addresses one of the most common failure points in GM LS valvetrains. Factory LS rocker arms use loose needle bearings at the trunnion pivot point, and these bearings can scatter under high spring pressures or aggressive cam profiles, causing catastrophic engine damage. This kit converts your stock rockers to a captured needle bearing design that contains all 33 bearings within the trunnion assembly. It fits the full range of GM LS applications including LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LQ4, LM7, and LM4 engines from 4.8L through 6.2L displacement.
The TK001NB kit uses 8620 carburized steel needle roller bearings in a captured style that prevents individual bearing escape. Each kit includes rocker arm trunnions, 33 total needle bearings, retaining clips, and assembly washers. The captured bearing design maintains proper lubrication paths while eliminating the loose bearing failure mode that plagues stock assemblies. Note that this is the NB (No Bolts) version, so rocker arm bolts must be sourced separately if your originals show wear or damage. This design choice allows builders to select bolt grade and length for their specific cylinder head configuration. The kit works with factory rocker arms, so you do not need to purchase new rockers unless yours show damage. Pair this upgrade with quality valve springs matched to your camshaft specifications.
This trunnion upgrade is essential for any LS engine running increased valve spring pressure, whether from a performance camshaft or forced induction setup. Stock trunnions regularly fail at spring pressures above 130 pounds on the seat, and aggressive cam profiles with fast ramp rates accelerate that wear. Builders working on truck engines, naturally aspirated street machines, or supercharged applications all benefit from this captured bearing conversion. Browse our complete engines and components selection for camshafts, timing sets, and supporting valvetrain hardware to complete your LS build.
The TK001NB fits all Gen III and Gen IV GM LS engines including LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LQ4, LM7, and LM4. This covers displacement from 4.8L through 6.2L. The kit works with factory rocker arms across all these platforms.
The NB designation means No Bolts. Brian Tooley Racing offers this version so builders can select the appropriate bolt grade and length for their specific cylinder head application. If your original bolts show no wear, they can be reused.
Factory LS trunnions use loose needle bearings that can escape the rocker arm under high valve spring pressure or aggressive cam profiles. Once a bearing escapes, it can cause scoring, oil starvation, and catastrophic valvetrain damage. The captured bearing design eliminates this failure mode.
No. This kit converts your existing factory rocker arms to the captured bearing design. You only need new rocker arms if yours show visible damage, scoring, or excessive wear at the bearing surfaces.
Upgrade when running valve spring seat pressures above 130 pounds, installing a performance camshaft, adding forced induction, or building any engine intended for sustained high-speed operation. Many builders install this kit preventatively on any performance LS build.
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