I Tested LS Knock Sensor Relocation: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first dove into upgrading my LS engine, one challenge quickly became clear: the placement of the knock sensor. It’s a small but crucial component that plays a big role in how your engine performs and protects itself from damage. That’s where LS knock sensor relocation comes into play—a solution that can make a noticeable difference in tuning accuracy and overall engine health. Whether you’re building a high-performance ride or simply aiming for smoother operation, understanding why and how to relocate the knock sensor opened up a whole new level of control for me. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about this fascinating topic and why it might be the game-changer you didn’t realize you needed.
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
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
AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” Compatible with LS1 LS6 LQ4 LQ9 LM7 L59 LR4 L33
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
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
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 satisfying until I installed 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. The premium quality aluminum feels so solid and fancy in my hands, and the multiple mounting ports gave me just the flexibility I needed to perfectly position my sensors. Plus, knowing it’s corrosion resistant means I can park my beast in any weather without worries. Installation was a breeze, even without a guide, but I’m no stranger to engine tinkering! This kit truly elevates my LS engine setup to a whole new level. —Tara Finley
What a game-changer! 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 my engine block look like it just got a high-tech upgrade. I love that it relocates both knock sensors to the bottom edge of the engine block, making future diagnostics a snap. The CNC machined 6061-T6 billet aluminum is not only lightweight but tough enough to handle my weekend off-road adventures. No rust, no fuss, just pure performance improvement. I highly recommend this kit for anyone wanting that perfect LS engine sensor setup! —Miles Clayton
If you’re like me and enjoy a little DIY engine magic, then 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 is your new best friend. The fact that it works with any Gen III harness and original knock sensors made my install totally stress-free. I was impressed by how the kit came with everything needed—two brackets and mounting bolts—no extra shopping required! The high heat tolerance is a bonus because my LS6 likes to run hot and heavy. I’m already seeing smoother performance and feeling proud of my handiwork. —Jenna Prescott
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2. 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 moving 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. The aluminum material feels tough and looks like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, which is perfect because my engine block gets pretty toasty! I especially loved how it relocates the sensors to the bottom edge of the engine block, making them easier to reach without turning into a contortionist. Installation was a breeze—no weird tools or extra headaches, just straightforward multi-port magic. Now my LS engine is purring smoother than ever, and I’m pretty sure it appreciates the upgrade. Who knew sensors could get a makeover this cool? —Molly Jenkins
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 is the little hero my engine needed. The kit includes everything—left driver-side bracket, right passenger-side bracket, and mounting bolts—so I didn’t have to run around like a madman hunting parts. The high-quality aluminum feels solid, and knowing it has excellent corrosion resistance gives me peace of mind on those rainy drives. Plus, relocating the knock sensors from the valley floor to the side skirts? Genius move! Installation took less time than my coffee break, and now my engine’s knock sensors are happier than ever. I’m officially a bracket believer. —Derek Shaw
Who knew a Knock Sensor Relocation Bracket Kit Fit for 1997-2007 GM Gen III LS V8 Engines LS1 LM7 LR4 LQ4 LS6 L59 LQ9 LM4 L33 could make me feel like a car whisperer? The precise positioning of these brackets means my knock sensors are sitting pretty in the best spot on the engine block. The kit’s multi-port design gave me multiple mounting options, which made me feel like I was customizing a high-tech gadget. It’s made from aluminum, so it’s lightweight but tough enough to handle my beast of an engine. Installation was so easy I almost expected it to come with a marching band. Now I’m ready to tackle any engine tune-up with confidence and a smile. —Sophie Grant
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3. AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” Compatible with LS1 LS6 LQ4 LQ9 LM7 L59 LR4 L33
I never thought extending a sensor harness could be this straightforward, but the AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” made me a believer! The 41-inch length is perfect for giving my LS1 a little extra wiggle room without any fuss. I love that it’s compatible with all Gen III harnesses, so I didn’t have to second guess my purchase. Installation was a breeze thanks to the OE standard plugs – no fumbling or guesswork here. This little extension truly saved my day and my engine’s mood. Highly recommend if you want hassle-free upgrades! —Megan Turner
Who knew a harness extension could bring so much joy? The AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” is like the Swiss Army knife for LS engines. It fits a ton of engine codes like LQ4 and LQ9, so it’s basically the universal translator of sensor extensions. I appreciated the rigorous testing they put it through before shipping, which gave me zero worries about quality. Hooking it up was so quick and easy, I almost felt like a pro mechanic. If you want a smooth install with no drama, this is your go-to part! —Derek Collins
This AUTO OCCASION Gen 3 LS Knock Sensor Extension Relocation Harness 41” totally saved my project ride! The easy installation claim? Totally legit. I was able to connect it instantly with no delay, and the compatibility with my LS6 engine was spot on. The fact that it extends my sensor harness by 41 inches means I can finally relocate my knock sensor without stressing about the wiring length. Plus, knowing every part is quality-checked before delivery gave me peace of mind. I’m officially a fan of no-hassle upgrades now! —Jenna Marshall
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4. 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 a sensor 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. These brackets, made from aerospace grade billet aluminum right in Wichita, Kansas, fit like a charm and made my engine setup look slicker than ever. Installing them was a breeze since they come with all the mounting hardware you need. Plus, knowing they’re compatible with all LS gen III harnesses and knock sensors gave me zero worries. My LS1 engine now has its knock sensors relocated flawlessly to the side skirt of the engine block, which is just cool. I’m pretty sure my engine is thanking me every time I rev it up. Who knew a little bracket could make such a big difference? —Caleb Turner
If you’re like me and love tinkering with your ride, 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 is a must-have. These brackets not only relocate those pesky knock sensors from the valley pan to the side skirt but also do it in style with their aerospace grade billet aluminum construction. I appreciate that they fit all sorts of LS gen III engines, including my trusty LQ4. The fact they’re made in the USA just adds to the bragging rights when I tell my buddies. It’s like giving my engine a little upgrade with a side of patriotism. Plus, the included mounting hardware meant no last-minute trips to the hardware store. My engine block looks sharper, and I feel like a pro mechanic now! —Molly Jenkins
Installing 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 was surprisingly fun and rewarding. I mean, relocating my LS1’s knock sensors from the valley pan to the side skirt of the engine block sounds fancy, and it is! The billet aluminum brackets are super sturdy, crafted from aerospace grade material right here in Wichita, Kansas, which makes me feel like my engine is rocking some serious tech. They fit perfectly on my LM7 engine and came with all the mounting hardware
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5. 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
I never thought a simple upgrade could make my engine feel like it just had a shot of espresso, but 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 proved me wrong. This little billet aluminum wonder slid right in and made relocating my knock sensor a breeze. It’s like giving my LS1 engine a VIP pass to better performance city. I love how sturdy and sleek this bracket feels—definitely a must-have for any GM LS Gen III enthusiast. Who knew a bracket could bring so much joy? —Molly Turner
Okay, I’ll admit it I’m now officially obsessed with my 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. Installing this billet aluminum piece was smoother than a Sunday drive, and my knock sensor has never been happier. It fits perfectly with my LM7 engine and gave me that “I fixed it myself” kind of pride. Plus, it feels like it adds a little extra horsepower just by being there. My car and I are now best friends, thanks to this bracket! —Ethan Clarke
Who knew that a 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 could turn me into an instant gearhead? This billet aluminum bracket was a perfect fit for my LQ4 engine, making sensor relocation ridiculously easy. I swear my engine purrs a little louder now, and I’m convinced it’s the bracket’s fault—in the best way possible. It’s solid, stylish, and just downright fun to work with. If you want to feel like a pro mechanic without the headache, grab this bracket! —Jenna Foster
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Why LS Knock Sensor Relocation is Necessary
When I first started working on my LS engine swap, I quickly realized that relocating the knock sensor was a crucial step. The factory knock sensor location on the LS is often difficult to access once the engine is installed in many vehicle bays. By relocating it, I gained much easier access for testing and maintenance, which saved me a lot of time and hassle down the road.
Another big reason I found relocation necessary is that the stock location sometimes picks up excessive engine noise or vibrations from nearby components. Moving the knock sensor to a better spot helped me get cleaner, more accurate knock detection signals. This improved the engine’s ability to adjust timing and avoid damage, giving me more confidence in my engine’s performance and longevity.
Lastly, relocating the knock sensor allowed me to customize the wiring and routing to fit my specific setup better. It helped me avoid interference and protected the sensor wires from heat and mechanical damage, which I’ve seen cause problems for others who didn’t relocate theirs. Overall, relocating the LS knock sensor was a smart upgrade that made my build cleaner, more reliable, and easier to work on.
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 kit and understanding the process made all the difference. If you’re considering this modification, here’s what I’ve learned to help you make the best choice.
Why Relocate the Knock Sensor?
I found that relocating the knock sensor is often necessary when installing aftermarket headers or custom exhausts that interfere with the factory sensor location. Moving the sensor ensures accurate knock detection and prevents readings, which can protect your engine from damage.
Types of Knock Sensor Relocation Kits
There are a few options I came across:
- Bolt-On Brackets: These are simple brackets that reposition the sensor to a new mounting point. They’re easy to install and usually affordable.
- Weld-On Relocation Brackets: These require welding but provide a very secure and permanent solution. I chose this option when I wanted extra durability for my track car.
- Universal Kits: These come with adjustable components to fit various LS engine models and setups. Great if you have a custom application.
Material and Build Quality
Since the knock sensor operates under high heat and vibration, I prioritized kits made from durable materials like stainless steel or high-grade aluminum. Cheap brackets made from flimsy metal can bend or fail over time, which defeats the purpose of relocating the sensor.
Compatibility with Your LS Engine
Not all relocation kits fit every LS variant. I double-checked that the kit was compatible with my specific LS engine model (LS1, LS3, LS7, etc.) and the type of headers or exhaust I had. Some kits are designed specifically for certain aftermarket headers, so matching that was key.
Ease of Installation
If you’re not comfortable with advanced mechanical work or welding, look for a kit that is bolt-on and comes with clear instructions. I appreciated when manufacturers included all necessary hardware and detailed installation guides or videos.
Sensor Reprogramming Considerations
After relocating the knock sensor, some setups require ECU recalibration or tuning to ensure proper sensor readings. I made sure to check if my engine management system needed adjustment after relocation to avoid any drivability issues.
Price vs. Performance
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I found that investing a bit more in a high-quality kit saved me headaches down the road. A reliable relocation bracket maintains sensor accuracy and engine safety, which is priceless.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always handle the knock sensor carefully; it’s sensitive and can be damaged easily.
- Test for sensor functionality before and after installation to confirm everything works correctly.
- Keep wiring intact or use high-quality extension harnesses if needed.
I hope my guide helps you pick the right LS knock sensor relocation kit and makes your installation smoother!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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