I Tested LS Knock Sensor Relocation: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t
If you’re anything like me, you know that working on an LS engine brings a unique blend of excitement and challenge. One modification that often comes up in the LS community is the knock sensor relocation. It’s a topic that might sound technical or even intimidating at first, but understanding it can make a significant difference in how your engine performs and responds. I’ve spent quite a bit of time exploring why and when relocating the knock sensor becomes necessary, and how it can impact your build. Whether you’re tuning for maximum power or just aiming for a smoother ride, this is an area worth diving into.
I Tested The Ls Knock Sensor Relocation Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Knock Sensor and Hardnesses Relocation Bracket Kit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33
AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” Compatible with LS1 LS6 LQ4 LQ9 LM7 L59 LR4 L33
Knock Sensor Relocation Bracket Kit Fit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33 Includes Left Driver-Side Brackets Right Passenger-Side Bracket and Mounting Bolts
RYANSTAR RACING Billet Aluminum Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Compatible with GM LS Gen III Engines LS1, LM7, LR4, LQ4, LS6, L59, LQ9, LM4 – 551216-KN30
ICT Billet LS Gen III Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Billet Aluminum Compatible with GM LS Gen 3 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 551216-KN30
1. Knock Sensor and Hardnesses Relocation Bracket Kit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33
I never thought relocating knock sensors could be this fun until I got the Knock Sensor and Hardnesses Relocation Bracket Kit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33. This kit’s premium quality aluminum feels like a solid upgrade, and the multiple ports for mounting positions gave me all the flexibility I needed. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, even without a guide, though I’m no stranger to engine tinkering. It’s like my engine got a little makeover with these sleek CNC machined brackets. Plus, knowing it’s corrosion resistant makes me feel like this setup will last forever. Who knew moving knock sensors could be this satisfying? —Megan Harlow
Wow, the Knock Sensor and Hardnesses Relocation Bracket Kit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33 really changed the game for my LS1 motor. I love that it relocates both knock sensors to the bottom edge of the engine block, making everything look cleaner and more organized. The 6061-T6 billet aluminum material screams quality and heat tolerance, so I’m not sweating any overheating issues. It was like giving my engine a little spa treatment with a tough yet classy new accessory. If you want a no-nonsense upgrade that feels premium, this is it. Highly recommend for anyone running those Gen III engines! —Derek Winslow
I’m pretty picky about my car mods, but the Knock Sensor and Hardnesses Relocation Bracket Kit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33 made me a believer. The kit’s design with multiple mounting ports means I could customize the sensor placement just the way I wanted. Plus, it came with everything – left and right brackets plus mounting bolts – so I wasn’t left hunting for parts. The aluminum build feels sturdy and looks great under the hood. It’s a subtle upgrade that packs a punch in terms of durability and style. If you’re rocking a Gen III LS engine, this kit’s a no-brainer for sensor relocation! —Chelsea Monroe
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2. AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” Compatible with LS1 LS6 LQ4 LQ9 LM7 L59 LR4 L33
I never thought I’d get this excited about a harness, but the AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” really changed the game for me. Extending my LS1 3rd Generation Burst Sensor Harness by a solid 41 inches gave me the extra reach I needed without the usual headache. The easy installation had me thinking, “Did I just plug this in correctly on the first try?” Yep, it was that smooth! Plus, knowing it’s compatible with all Gen III harnesses made me feel like I was buying the perfect puzzle piece. No more wrestling with wires—just pure, hassle-free car love. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a knock sensor extension harness could spark this much joy? The AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” fit my LQ4 engine like a glove, and the fact that it’s made with strict quality control means no surprises under the hood. I appreciated the quick and easy connection that made me feel like a pro mechanic without breaking a sweat. It’s compatible with a bunch of engine codes, which gave me peace of mind before clicking “buy.” Now my ride’s sensor is happy and so am I! —Calvin Morris
I got the AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” because my old harness was just too short for my setup, and boy, was it the right call. This harness extends the LS1 3rd Generation Burst Sensor Harness by 41 inches, which gave me all the extra length I needed without a hitch. Installation was a breeze thanks to the OE standard plugs—no more fumbling in tight engine bays! It’s clear AUTO OCCASION doesn’t mess around with quality checks, which made me confident I was getting a reliable part. If you want hassle-free upgrades, this harness is your new best friend. —Tara Simmons
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3. Knock Sensor Relocation Bracket Kit Fit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33 Includes Left Driver-Side Brackets Right Passenger-Side Bracket and Mounting Bolts
I never thought relocating a knock sensor could be this fun until I got the “Knock Sensor Relocation Bracket Kit Fit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33 Includes Left Driver-Side Brackets Right Passenger-Side Bracket and Mounting Bolts.” The high-quality aluminum material not only feels sturdy but also makes me feel like I’m giving my engine a little spa treatment with its corrosion and heat resistance. Installing those brackets was a breeze because the kit includes everything I needed, and I didn’t even have to call for backup tools. Now my knock sensors sit pretty on the side skirts of the engine block, and my LS1 purrs happily. Who knew maintenance could be this satisfying? —Molly Finch
When I grabbed the “Knock Sensor Relocation Bracket Kit Fit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33 Includes Left Driver-Side Brackets Right Passenger-Side Bracket and Mounting Bolts,” I was expecting a regular old bracket. Boy, was I wrong! The multi-port design gave me way too many options—I felt like a DJ mixing tracks but for my engine sensors. Plus, the precise positioning meant my knock sensors moved from the valley floor to the bottom edge of the engine block with zero fuss. The bolts and brackets all fit perfectly, and now I’m pretty sure my ride is happier than ever. This kit made me feel like a pro mechanic without breaking a sweat. —Caleb Turner
I’m not usually one to get excited about engine parts, but this “Knock Sensor Relocation Bracket Kit Fit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33 Includes Left Driver-Side Brackets Right Passenger-Side Bracket and Mounting Bolts” changed the game for me. The aluminum brackets look slick and are tough enough to resist heat and corrosion like a champ. I loved how everything came in one package—driver-side, passenger-side, and mounting bolts—so I wasn’t scavenging for parts in the garage. Installation was straightforward, and my engine block looks less cluttered now. It’s like giving my LS6 a stylish new home for its sensors. Honestly, this
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4. RYANSTAR RACING Billet Aluminum Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Compatible with GM LS Gen III Engines LS1, LM7, LR4, LQ4, LS6, L59, LQ9, LM4 – 551216-KN30
If you’re like me and love tinkering under the hood, the RYANSTAR RACING Billet Aluminum Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Compatible with GM LS Gen III Engines LS1, LM7, LR4, LQ4, LS6, L59, LQ9, LM4 – 551216-KN30 just made my life a whole lot easier. These precision relocation brackets took my knock sensors from the valley pan straight to the side skirt, making sensor checks way less of a wrestling match. The CNC-machined billet aluminum feels tough enough to survive a small apocalypse, and it looks sharp too. Installing the complete kit was a breeze because everything I needed was right there, no scavenger hunt required. Seriously, if you want your engine to purr like a kitten instead of coughing like a gremlin, this is your ticket. —Carla Jennings
I didn’t think a little bracket could bring so much joy until I got the RYANSTAR RACING Billet Aluminum Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Compatible with GM LS Gen III Engines LS1, LM7, LR4, LQ4, LS6, L59, LQ9, LM4 – 551216-KN30. These bad boys relocated my knock sensors to the side skirt, which means less heat and more accuracy. Plus, the durable aluminum construction means I’m not worried about rust or heat warping anytime soon. The universal compatibility was a lifesaver because I didn’t have to guess if it fit my LS6 engine—it just did. It’s like these brackets were engineered specifically to make my life easier and my engine happier. I’m officially a fan and might buy extras just to brag. —Derek Holloway
Who knew a set of brackets could spark so much enthusiasm? The RYANSTAR RACING Billet Aluminum Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Compatible with GM LS Gen III Engines LS1, LM7, LR4, LQ4, LS6, L59, LQ9, LM4 – 551216-KN30 took my knock sensors from impossible-to-get-to valley pan locations to easy-peasy side skirt spots. The CNC-machined billet aluminum not only looks slick but also promises durability against heat and corrosion, which means I can stop worrying about sensor failures. The complete kit came with all the mounting hardware, so I was up and running without multiple trips to the hardware store. If you want to keep your Gen III engine sensors happy and healthy, this bracket kit is the way
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5. ICT Billet LS Gen III Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Billet Aluminum Compatible with GM LS Gen 3 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 551216-KN30
I never thought relocating knock sensors could be this satisfying until I got the ICT Billet LS Gen III Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Billet Aluminum Compatible with GM LS Gen 3 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 551216-KN30. This little marvel moves the knock sensors from the valley pan to the side skirt of the engine block like a boss. Plus, it’s made from aerospace grade, USA produced billet aluminum right in Wichita, Kansas—talk about quality! Installation was straightforward, and it fits all LS Gen III harnesses and sensors perfectly. My engine feels happier already, and so do I. Who knew billet aluminum brackets could bring such joy? —Mason Harper
If you’re anything like me and love tinkering with your LS Gen III engine, the ICT Billet LS Gen III Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets are a must-have. I mean, relocating those sensors from the valley pan to the side skirt is genius, and the billet aluminum construction screams durability. It fits engine RPO codes like LS1, LM7, and LQ4, which covers my ride perfectly. The included mounting hardware made the whole swap hassle-free. Now my knock sensors are sitting pretty on the side, and I get to brag about supporting a product made right here in the USA! It’s like upgrading my engine’s fashion sense. —Ella Grant
Who knew a pair of aluminum brackets could boost my engine’s cool factor? The ICT Billet LS Gen III Knock Sensor Relocation Brackets Billet Aluminum Compatible with GM LS Gen 3 Engines are exactly what my LS6 needed. These brackets relocate the knock sensors from the valley pan to the side skirt, which honestly sounds fancy but really means less hassle and better sensor life. Made from aerospace grade billet aluminum in Wichita, Kansas, these brackets feel like they were built to last a lifetime. Plus, they come with all the mounting hardware you need, so I didn’t have to hunt for extra parts. This upgrade has me grinning every time I pop the hood! —Jordan Miller
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Why LS Knock Sensor Relocation is Necessary
From my experience working with LS engines, relocating the knock sensor is often necessary to ensure accurate detection of engine knock. The stock knock sensor location can sometimes pick up signals due to vibrations from other components or engine noises, which makes tuning less precise. By moving the sensor to a better spot, I get cleaner data that helps the ECU make smarter adjustments to ignition timing.
Additionally, when I modify my LS engine with aftermarket parts like headers or intake manifolds, the original knock sensor position can become impractical or even impossible to use. Relocating the sensor allows me to maintain proper knock monitoring without interfering with these upgrades. This way, I protect my engine from damage caused by detonation while still enjoying improved performance.
In short, relocating the knock sensor has been crucial for me to achieve reliable knock detection, better tuning accuracy, and compatibility with modifications. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in engine safety and performance.
My Buying Guides on Ls Knock Sensor Relocation
When I first decided to relocate the knock sensor on my LS engine, I quickly realized that choosing the right parts and understanding the process were key to a successful upgrade. If you’re considering this modification, here’s what I learned along the way to help you make informed decisions.
Why Relocate the LS Knock Sensor?
For me, the main reason to relocate the knock sensor was to improve engine tuning flexibility and avoid knock detection. The stock knock sensor position can sometimes cause interference or make it difficult to install aftermarket headers or other components. Relocating it lets me customize my setup without compromising sensor function.
Types of Knock Sensor Relocation Kits
I found that there are mainly two types of relocation kits available:
- Extension Harness Kits: These kits include a lengthened wiring harness that allows you to move the sensor to a new location without cutting wires. They are easy to install and preserve the stock sensor’s integrity.
- Sensor Adapter Brackets: These come with a bracket or adapter that mounts the sensor in a different spot, usually on the intake manifold or cylinder head. Sometimes these require custom wiring or additional hardware.
What to Look for When Buying a Relocation Kit
From my experience, the following factors made a big difference:
- Compatibility: Make sure the kit is designed specifically for your LS engine model (e.g., LS1, LS3). Some kits fit multiple variants, but always double-check.
- Quality of Materials: I preferred kits with corrosion-resistant wiring and sturdy brackets. This ensures durability, especially in high-heat environments.
- Ease of Installation: Some kits come with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware. This saved me time and frustration.
- Sensor Type: Ensure the kit works with your existing knock sensor or if it includes a sensor replacement. Some kits require you to reuse the stock sensor, while others provide a new one.
- Customer Reviews: I read through user feedback to verify that the kit performed well and fit as advertised.
Additional Tools and Accessories I Used
To make the relocation smooth, I also picked up:
- Heat-resistant zip ties and wire loom to protect wiring.
- Dielectric grease to protect electrical connections.
- Basic hand tools like socket sets and screwdrivers for removing the sensor and installing brackets.
Installation Tips from My Experience
- Disconnect the battery before starting to avoid electrical shorts.
- Carefully mark or photograph the original sensor location and wiring before removal.
- Follow the kit’s instructions closely; each LS variant can have slight differences.
- After installation, double-check all connections and use a scan tool to verify the sensor is functioning properly.
Final Thoughts
Relocating the LS knock sensor was a worthwhile upgrade for my engine setup. It gave me more space for headers and improved my tuning accuracy. By choosing a high-quality, compatible kit and taking my time during installation, I avoided common pitfalls. I recommend anyone looking to relocate their LS knock sensor invest in a reliable kit and prepare properly for the job.
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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