1981 Chevrolet Camaro Performance Engines

Essential 1981 Chevrolet Camaro Performance Engines

Competition Cams – Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam (Part No.11-600-4)

Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam

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$542.99
HYDRAULIC – Thumpr: High performance street, stock converter ok, best with 2000+ converter and gears. Choppy/thumping idle.

Product Features:
  • HYDRAULIC – Thumpr: High performance street, stock converter ok, best with 2000+ converter and gears. Choppy/thumping idle.
  • 279/296 Advertised Duration, 227/241 Duration @ .050″, .498″/.483″ Lift, 107 Lobe Separation
  • Valve spring upgrade required
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Mr. Gasket – Head Gasket (Part No.1130G)

Head Gasket

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$32.99
Mr. Gasket Steel Shim Cylinder Head Gaskets are for high performance street machines, drag racing and oval track racing. With today’s extreme compression ratios you need stronger more durable gaskets. Mr. Gasket steel shim gaskets are made from .020 inch steel shim stock which is thinner than most composite gaskets increasing engine compression. Stress formed embossments will seal the extreme cylinder pressure.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from .020″ steel shim stock.
  • Thinner than composition head gaskets – increases engine compression.
  • Stress formed embossments seal extreme cylinder pressures.
  • For high performance street, drag race and oval track use.
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Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Buick 231-252 V6 Even Fire (Part No.5487)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Buick 231-252 V6 Even Fire

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$367.99


Product Features:
  • Designed for Optimum Torque and Acceleration
  • Maximum Performance From Idle through Mid-Range
  • Matched To Performer Intake PN[5486]
  • Includes Hydraulic Lifters and Assembly Lube
  • Major Improvement in Throttle Response and Torque
  • Use For Daily Drivers/Trucks/Vans/RVs/4x4s
  • Take The Guesswork Out Of Camshaft Selection
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2918)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

from

$42.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fluoroelastomer compound combines optimum resistance to heat, oils and abrasion for longivity.
  • Optimizes performance under high crankcase vacuum conditions, elevated temperatures and high RPM levels.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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B & M – Holeshot 2400 (Part No.70419)

Holeshot 2400

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$609.99
HoleShot 2400 for GM 1993 to 1996 TH700R4 (30 spline) and 1984 to 1993 4L60E (30 spline) Application: HoleShot 2400 for GM 1993 to 1996 TH700R4 (30 spline) and 1984 to 1993 4L60E (30 spline) A higher than stock stall speed as delivered by the Holeshot converter will provide several advantages and benefits in vehicles with modified engines. Many modifications, particularly big cams, tend to reduce low end power and torque. The high stall converter allows the engine to launch the car at higher rpm where more torque is available. The Holeshot is generally a very good choice for the typical street machine that is looking for better launch capability and more strength. Street rods with modified engines will also benefit from a Holeshot converter. If your vehicle is equipped with a plate type nitrous system, you will need a Nitrous Holeshot!! Stall speed listings are based on engines producing 230lb. ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm. More torque at 2,500 rpm will give you more stall speed, less torque at 2,500 rpm will give you less stall speed than the stall speed ratings indicated. Furnace brazed impeller. New precision steel alloy pump drive tube. New heavy duty needle bearing between stator and impeller (not a thrust washer). Needle bearing between stator and turbine. Furnace brazed turbine. Dual pattern drive lugs on some GM Holeshots. New turbine hub. New springs and rollers in stator.

Product Features:
  • Furnace Brazed Impeller
  • Steel Alloy Pump Drive Tube
  • Heavy Duty Needle Bearing
  • Between Stator and Turbine
  • Furnace Brazed Turbine
  • New Turbine Hub
  • New Springs/Rollers In Stator
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Edelbrock – Torker-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1957-1986 Small-Block Chevy 283-400 V8 (Part No.5002)

Torker-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1957-1986 Small-Block Chevy 283-400 V8

from

$411.99
Edelbrock camshafts are matched to Edelbrock Total Power Package components for proven performance, taking the guesswork out of camshaft selection. They are compatible with OEM or Edelbrock hydraulic roller tappets which reduce friction, virtually eliminate break-in problems, and permit higher valve velocities for increased performance. Designed to work with Torker II manifolds for performance from 2500 to 6500 RPM, these camshafts are ideal for high-performance street, drag or marine applications. Torker-Plus cams have a slightly rough idle and are not suitable for trucks or towing applications. Hydraulic flat tappet lifters are included with each camshaft.

Product Features:
  • Designed for 2500 to 6500 Performance
  • Designed for Hi-Perf Street; Drag or Marine Use
  • Matched to Edelbrock Torker II Intakes
  • Includes Hydraulic Lifters and Assembly Lube
  • Dyno Matched/Street Proven Performance
  • Take The Guesswork Out Of Camshaft Selection
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Edelbrock – Water Pump Big-Block Chevy Short/Standard in Satin Finish (Part No.8850)

Water Pump Big-Block Chevy Short/Standard in Satin Finish

from

$374.99
Product Features:
  • 5/8in. pilot shaft, aluminum, short style water pump
  • Unique O-ring provides a far superior seal than conventional gaskets
  • Extremely durable as well as efficient
  • Provides maximum flow, maximum pressure and equal distribution to both sides of the block within 1-percent
  • Includes heavy-duty roller bearing assemblies built to withstand higher torsional loads, billet steel hubs, and leak-proof seals
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Mr. Gasket – Tstat (Part No.6368)

Tstat

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$31.99
Designed to open at 180 degrees every time, regardless of engine rpm, and it’s high-flow design and brass and copper construction eliminate the damaging effects of cycling when you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic. It includes the rubber gasket and has a pressure relief valve.

Product Features:
  • Opens sooner than stock at 180 degrees
  • High flow design for performance applications
  • Includes rubber o-ring seal/gasket
  • Incorporates pressure relief valve
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Manifold Bolt Set – Chevrolet Small Block – Socket Head 3/8"-16 X 1" Bolts & Washers (Part No.956G)

Intake Manifold Bolt Set - Chevrolet Small Block - Socket Head 3/8"-16 X 1" Bolts & Washers

from

$17.49
These grade 5 hex head bolts are brite zinc plated for protection and appearance. Hardened flat washers provide uniform torque & prevent galling on aluminum manifolds. Includes twelve (12) 3/8 inch-16 x 1 inch bolts & washers

Product Features:
  • Zinc plated to resist corrosion and provide a clean professional appearance
  • Made from Grade 5 steel for strength and durability
  • Flat washers provide uniform clamp load and prevent galling on aluminum intake manifolds
  • Allen (socket) Head
  • Zinc Plated For Protection
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Mr. Gasket – Water Neck (Part No.9141G)

Water Neck

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$58.99
Chrome water neck with a swivel top allows you to place your coolant hose where you want it to be, not just where the neck allows. Precision die cast for better fitment, these water necks are first polished to a high luster, then chrome plated. Features an O-ring style seal to prevent water leaks. Comes with O-ring gasket and mounting bolts.

Product Features:
  • Chrome Plated Aluminum
  • O-ring To Prevent Leaks
  • Swivels For Hard To Fit Applications
  • Comes With Allen Head Bolts
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Intake Gasket (Part No.5817)

Ultra Seal: Intake Gasket

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$42.99
Ultra-Seal intake manifold gaskets are manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. Provides excellent sealing and durability. Incorporates Silicone beading around each intake and water outlet port to provide additional sealing strength on both sides of each gasket. No gasket sealer required. For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use. Includes manifold end seals and distributor gasket.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Silicone beading on both sides of each gasket
  • Complete with manifold end seals and distributor gasket
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
  • Creates Tight Leak proof Seal
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1818)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

from

$27.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Felcoid/Plus gaskets have a fiber sheet core and a latex rubber coating to eliminate potential leakage paths. The core material resists crushing and splitting, while providing excellent blowout resistance.
  • With steel core to provide ultimate excellent blowout resistance.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Edelbrock – Performer RPM AIR-Gap Small Block Chevy Black Intake Manifold (Part No.75013)

Performer RPM AIR-Gap Small Block Chevy Black Intake Manifold

from

$525.99
Edelbrock part #75013 RPM Air-Gap RPM intake manifold is designed for 1955-86 262-400 c.i.d. Chevrolet V8’s. The award-winning RPM Air-Gap intake manifold incorporates the same race-winning technology that’s used on our Victor Series competition intakes.

Product Features:
  • 1500-6500 RPM Range
  • Dual Plane Type-4150 Style Flange
  • 4.2 in. Front Height, 4.72 in. Center Height, 5.25 in. Rear Height
  • Black Powder Coated Finish
  • Non-EGR
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Edelbrock – Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16) (Part No.9730)

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

from

$99.99
Product Features:
  • Use W/ Valve Springs Part #5703, 5794
  • Set of 16
  • 1.50 in. Outside Diameter
  • Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
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Competition Cams – Engine Valve Spring Kit (Part No.911-16)

Engine Valve Spring Kit

from

$759.99
Single Outer Valve Springs from COMP Cams allow you to build the perfect spring assembly for your application. The valve spring creation process is far more involved than most people realize. Selecting the right metal stock and creating the best design is not done by chance. COMP Cams has developed a process that creates the highest quality valve spring available. The result is a product that meets and exceeds the expectations of today’s engine builders and racers.O.D. Dia. 1 I.D. Dia. 2 Damper Seat Load Open Load Coil Bind Rate (Lbs./In.) Titanium Retainer Steel Retainer Cup Seat Shims 1.524 1.110 Y 122 @ 1.900 309 @ 1.400 1.200 373 721, 732 1732, 741 4779* 4757

Product Features:
  • Seat pressure: 122 lbs. @ 1.900″, Open Pressure: 309 lbs. @ 1.400″
  • O.D.: 1.524″, I.D.: 1.110″
  • Single valve springs with damper
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Edelbrock – Replacement Timing Cover Gasket #4243 For SB Chevy, Fits 2-Piece Part #4242 (Part No.4243)

Replacement Timing Cover Gasket #4243 For SB Chevy, Fits 2-Piece Part #4242

from

$41.99
Product Features:
  • Replacement Gasket Set For PN[4242]
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1606)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$27.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Blue Stripe performance cork-rubber gaskets use cork particles evenly distributed throughout a rubber binder resulting in a compressible gasket without leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1640)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$22.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Blue Stripe performance cork-rubber gaskets use cork particles evenly distributed throughout a rubber binder resulting in a compressible gasket without leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Edelbrock – Performer Small-Block Chevy Cylinder Head 64cc Flat Tappet Polished (Part No.609019)

Performer Small-Block Chevy Cylinder Head 64cc Flat Tappet Polished

from

$927.99
The Edelbrock #609019 Performer cylinder head is designed for 302, 327, 350 and 400 cid small-block Chevy engines up to 1986. This cylinder head includes your choice of 64cc (In order to retain stock compression ratio on 1970 and earlier small-blocks) or
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Edelbrock – XX Performer Big-Block Chevy Oval Port Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam Polished (Part No.604919)

XX Performer Big-Block Chevy Oval Port Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam Polished

from

$1084.99
The Edelbrock #604919 Performer Bare High Compression Cylinder Heads are designed for Big-Block Chevy Oval Port V8 applications. These Edelbrock Performer Series Cylinder heads are 50-state street legal and provide outstanding performance from Idle-5,500

Product Features:
  • High Compression
  • 100cc Combustion Chamber Volume
  • 290cc Intake/110cc Exhaust Runner Volume
  • 2.19 in. Intake/1.88 in. Exhaust Valve Diameter
  • 0.562 in. Deck Thickness
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Mr. Gasket – Cylinder Head Dowel Pins (Part No.4377)

Cylinder Head Dowel Pins

from

$17.79
Big Block Chevrolet tubular head dowel, .638/.639 inch o.d. (outer diameter) by 1/2 inch. Packaged two per set. These hard to find dowel pins are precision machined then case hardened for accurate alignment in engine assembly.

Product Features:
  • Precision Machined
  • Case Hardened
  • Give Accurate Alignment
  • 2 Per Set
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Mr. Gasket – Cylinder Head Dowel Pins (Part No.4375)

Cylinder Head Dowel Pins

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$14.99
Dowel pins are precision machined and case hardened for accurate head alignment. Two per set. 5/16 inch x 5/8 inch

Product Features:
  • Precision Machined
  • Case Hardened
  • Give Accurate Alignment
  • 2 Per Set
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Mr. Gasket – Advance And Retard Cam Bushings (Part No.85)

Advance And Retard Cam Bushings

from

$42.49
With Mr. Gasket cam degree bushings you fine tune the camshaft timing of your engine to as little as 1 degree. Even aftermarket timing sets with multiple keyways can’t give the range of adjustment these bushings allow. Retard your camshaft to lower the powerband for more low end torque and midrange horsepower, or advance for more top end power. This kit does even number adjustment 0-8 degrees.

Product Features:
  • Advance the cam for increased torque and horsepower
  • Tune your powerband for more end torque or increase top end horsepower
  • Includes (4) offset bushings and (1) 0 degree bushing
  • Cam sprocket dowel pin hole must be drilled to .406¿ (13/32¿) dia.
  • Cam sprocket dowel pin hole must be drilled to .406┐ (13/32┐) dia.
  • Increase Top-End Horsepower
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Edelbrock – TIMING CHAIN (Part No.7844)

TIMING CHAIN

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$29.99
Product Features:
  • Timing Chain Only
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Competition Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs (Part No.1074)

Ultra Seal: Competition Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs

from

$85.09
Mr. Gasket competition screw-in rocker arm studs are manufactured from heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 steel. Ideal for high performance street and race applications.

Product Features:
  • Black Oxide Coated Grade 8 Steel
  • Kit Contains 16 Studs
  • Easy To Install
  • Heat Treated Steel
  • Prevents Stud Flexing
  • Black Plated Finish
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs (Part No.1076)

Ultra Seal: Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs

from

$65.99
Mr. Gasket screw-in rocker arm studs are manufactured from heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 steel. Ideal for high performance street applications. OE style press in rocker studs can actually pull out of the cylinder head when using high lift camshafts. Includes sixteen studs 3/8-24 x 1.47 inch long top x 7/16-14 bottom.

Product Features:
  • Black Oxide Coated Grade 8 Steel
  • Kit Contains 16 Studs
  • Easy To Install
  • Heat Treated Steel
  • Grade 8 Steel
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Edelbrock – Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy (Part No.9646)

Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy

from

$203.99
Edelbrock part #9646 Pushrods are designed for small-block Chevy V-8 engine applications. These one-piece pushrods are manufactured from high quality 4130 Chromoly steel tubing that has been surface hardened for maximum durability. They have precise forme

Product Features:
  • 7.25 in. Length
  • 0.312 in. Diameter
  • 4130 Chromoly Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
  • Made In The USA
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Competition Cams – Magnum 7.800" Long, .080" Wall, 3/8" Diameter Pushrod Set (Part No.7513-16)

Magnum 7.800" Long, .080" Wall, 3/8" Diameter Pushrod Set

from

$157.99
Magnum Pushrods from COMP Cams offer an affordable solution for your .080″ wall chromemoly pushrod needs. Designed to withstand the stresses of a high performance engine, Magnum Pushrods are head-treated for extended durability and have precision formed, reinforced ends. Magnum Pushrods are black-oxide finished with their part number and length laser etched onto the surface for easy identification.

Product Features:
  • 3/8″ Diameter, 7.800″ Length
  • Magnum Pushrods for Small Block Chevy
  • One-piece .080″ wall chromemoly steel tubing
  • Heat-treated for extended durability and guide plate compatibility
  • Precision formed and reinforced pushrod end
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1981 Chevrolet Camaro Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 Chevrolet Camaro. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 95 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $14.99 to $1,268.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 Chevrolet Camaro running smoothly.

Performance Engines are only as good as their brand. We stock 8 different brands to make sure you have plenty of trusted parts to choose from for your 1981 Chevrolet Camaro. Mr. Gasket, Edelbrock, and FEL-PRO Performance are just some of the brands we stock. Search for brands you know or compare prices and reviews to help you decide!

We know you’ll find the perfect Performance Engines for your 1981 Chevrolet Camaro, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 157 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include Action Plus Water Pumps with 3.7 stars and PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET with 1.0 stars.

So if you’re in the market for aftermarket Performance Engines to keep your 1981 Chevrolet Camaro rolling for years to come, look no further. Shop online and have your products shipped direct to your door, or pick up at the nearest Advance Auto Parts location today!

Performance Engines Brands To Make Your 1981 Chevrolet Camaro Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 Chevrolet Camaro demands trusted brand parts and products to keep it running. Many trusted brands of Performance Engines make up Advance Auto Parts’ inventory, and all are ready to help make your Camaro the best it can be. Be sure to browse some of our top Performance Engines brands and parts.

Popular B & M Performance Engines

We carry B & M parts in our stock across Performance Torque Converters categories, plus more. For a 1981 Chevrolet Camaro, our most popular B & M Performance Engines include:
Tork Master 2400
from $339.99
(1)
Tork Master 2400
Performance Torque Converters
Tork Master 3000
from $499.99
(1)
Tork Master 3000
Performance Torque Converters

Top 1981 Chevrolet Camaro Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

Mr. Gasket products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 Chevrolet Camaro. Popular Mr. Gasket parts include:
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
from $26.99
(20)
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats

FAQs for 1981 Chevrolet Camaro Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 Chevrolet Camaro?

Out of 95 Performance Engines for the 1981 Chevrolet Camaro, the most popular in our inventory are:
Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy
from $195.99
(7)
Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy
Performance Intake Manifolds
Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts
from $39.49
(1)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
from $52.99
(1)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets

What are the top-rated 1981 Chevrolet Camaro Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 Chevrolet Camaro based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Action Plus Water Pumps
from $215.99
(3)
Action Plus Water Pumps
“I bought this item for my 1979 Camaro SBC for Street/Strip application. Water pump weighs 4 LBS less than factory, comes with its own cork gaskets. N”
PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET
from $18.29
(3)
PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET
“This part is incorrectly listed as fitting a 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix. It’s not Advanced’s fault as EVERY shop and site has this part listed for that v”
Action Plus Water Pumps
from $215.99
(2)
Action Plus Water Pumps
“The twisted neck comes to far up on the hub. For a 2 groove pulley it causes the pulley to hit the water pump. You will also need new bolts for the”