A strong square body LS swap choice matches the part to your truck and swap plan, whether you need headers for a 2WD or 4WD C10 or adjustable mounts for a broader year range. Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers lead for their stated fitment on classic GM trucks, 1-3/4-inch primaries, a 3-inch collector and included gaskets and bolts. This roundup also covers several motor-mount options, shorty headers and small-block-to-LS adapter plates.
Those categories solve different installation problems, so a part described as universal is not automatically the right fit for your truck. Check the listed chassis range, engine family and header style against your actual configuration, then confirm clearance and mounting requirements before ordering.
The products below are ranked by how directly their listed facts address a square body LS swap.
Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers lead because the listing specifically covers classic GM truck LS swaps and names 1960–1987 and 1988–1991 Square Body applications. Their 1-3/4-inch primaries, 3-inch merge collector, included MLS gaskets and header bolts give buyers useful details to compare. The listing also provides a fitment and clearance video, but buyers should still verify compatibility with their exact truck, engine and installation setup before choosing long-tube headers.
Our Top Picks

Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers
Explicitly lists classic GM truck and Square Body fitment, 1-3/4-inch primaries, a 3-inch collector, MLS gaskets and header bolts.
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Broad Year RangeLists 1973–1998 Square Body and OBS truck fitment, adjustable placement and compatibility with several common automatic transmissions.
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Adjustable MountsDesigned for 1973–1998 Square Body and OBS trucks, with adjustable brackets and listed 2WD and 4WD compatibility.
View on Amazon- Shorty Header Option Certified Automotive Experts Shorty Headers
Compare the Square Body LS Swap Options
| # | Product | Weight | Dimensions | Material | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20 lb | — | — | View on Amazon | |
| 2 | 2. Goopool Square Body MountsBroad Year Range | 3.16 kg | 10.7 x 5.3 x 5.2 in | Alloy Steel | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. daola888 Square Body MountsAdjustable Mounts | 2.4 lb | 8.9 x 4.4 x 3.15 in | Alloy Steel | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Ispeedytech Long Tube HeadersC-series long-tube header selection | 25.3 lb | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Certified Automotive Experts Shorty HeadersShorty Header Option | 14.6 lb | — | Stainless Steel | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. AutoForge Shorty HeadersStainless shorty LS-swap headers | 17.81 lb | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. folosem LS Swap MountsPowder-coated carbon-steel mounts | — | 0.2 x 0.1 x 0.2 in | Carbon Steel | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. ICT Billet Adapter PlatesSBC-to-LS adapter plate conversion | 2.1 lb | 8 x 5 x 1 in | Aluminum | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Yoursme Adapter PlatesExisting SBC mount adapter plates | 1.01 kg | — | Aluminum | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Hooker G-Body BracketG-body crossmember add-on bracket | 2.4 lb | 6.75 x 5.38 x 2 in | Plastic | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Square Body Ls Swap

#1 · Best Overall
1. Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers
- Weight: 20 lb
Best for: Square-body long-tube swap builder.
Why it ranks #1: Explicitly lists classic GM truck and Square Body fitment, 1-3/4-inch primaries, a 3-inch collector, MLS gaskets and header bolts.
Long-tube routing with 13⁄4-inch primaries and a formed 3-inch merge collector gives LS-swapped classic GM trucks a defined exhaust-header setup. Certified Automotive Experts lists fitment for 1960–1987 Chevy/GMC C10 and K10 trucks and 1988–1991 square-body trucks, with 2WD and 4WD applications identified.
The included MLS gaskets and 12-piece header-bolt kit put installation hardware alongside the two headers, helping keep those parts together for assembly. Long-tube routing and the 3-inch merge collector outlet specify the exhaust configuration, while the 13⁄4-inch primaries identify the tube size. The listing also includes a fitment and clearance video showing a test-truck installation, giving buyers a way to review setup and clearance details before choosing these headers for a listed truck.
- Long-tube design with 13⁄4-inch primaries
- Formed 3-inch merge collector outlet
- Includes MLS gaskets and 12-piece header-bolt kit
- Fitment and clearance video shows a test-truck installation
- Listed truck-year coverage ends at 1991 for square-body applications.
Skip it if you need fitment outside the listed 1960–1987 C10/K10 or 1988–1991 square-body truck ranges; the stated coverage does not extend further.
For a builder fitting an LS into a listed classic GM truck, these long-tube headers bundle gaskets and bolts with defined collector dimensions. Check the stated truck-year range and review the clearance video against your installation needs.
Full product details
| Brand | Certified Automotive Experts |
|---|---|
| Included Components | One Set of Two Exhaust Headers |
| Item Weight | 20 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Certified Automotive Experts |
| Model | CAE-032- |
Listed on Amazon as: LS Swap Long Tube Headers Polished 304 Stainless Steel for 1960–1987 Chevy GMC C10 K10 Trucks and 1988–1991 Square Body 2WD 4WD Includes MLS Gaskets 12pc Header Bolt Kit
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#2 · Broad Year Range
2. Goopool Square Body Mounts
- Weight: 3.16 kg
- Dimensions: 10.7 x 5.3 x 5.2 in
- Material: Alloy Steel
Best for: Adjustable square-body engine placement.
Why it ranks #2: Lists 1973–1998 Square Body and OBS truck fitment, adjustable placement and compatibility with several common automatic transmissions.
Slotted adjustment lets these Goopool mounts change LS engine placement within the engine compartment, a practical aid when laying out a square-body or OBS conversion. The listing identifies 1973–1998 Chevy/GMC truck applications and names compatibility with several common automatic transmissions, including 4L60E, TH350, and 4L80.
The slotted brackets allow adjustment of engine position, giving a swap builder room to work through placement in the engine compartment. The stated transmission combinations include 4L60E, 4L65E, TH350, TH400, TH700R4, and 4L80, which helps buyers assess the mounts alongside their drivetrain plan. Compatibility is listed for LS-series engines and specified Vortec truck engines, while the truck range covers 1973–1998 square-body/OBS Chevy and GMC 2WD and 4WD applications.
- Slotted brackets allow engine-placement adjustment
- Lists 1973–1998 square-body and OBS truck fitment
- Names LS-series and Vortec engine compatibility
- Lists several transmission combinations, including 4L60E and 4L80
- No components are listed as included, so the mounts do not provide a stated hardware package.
Skip it if you need a listed kit of included components; daola888 LS Swap Motor Mounts explicitly list an alternator bracket as included.
These suit builders placing an LS or listed Vortec engine in a 1973–1998 Chevy/GMC truck who value adjustable positioning and transmission options. Match the truck and drivetrain to the specific compatibility details before planning the installation.
Full product details
| Brand | Goopool |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | no |
| Item Dimensions | 10.7 x 5.3 x 5.2 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.16 kg |
| Dimensions | 10.7 x 5.3 x 5.2 inches |
| Manufacturer | KASSEN |
| Part Number | LS-ESM |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | LS-ESM |
Listed on Amazon as: LS Swap Motor Mounts Compatible with 1973-1998 Square Body / OBS Chevy GMC Truck 2WD,4WD Adjustable Swap Engine Conversion Bracket for C10 C/K 1500
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#3 · Adjustable Mounts
3. daola888 Square Body Mounts
- Weight: 2.4 lb
- Dimensions: 8.9 x 4.4 x 3.15 in
- Material: Alloy Steel
Best for: Adjustable OBS and square-body mounts.
Why it ranks #3: Designed for 1973–1998 Square Body and OBS trucks, with adjustable brackets and listed 2WD and 4WD compatibility.
Adjustable engine-conversion brackets let these daola888 mounts provide positioning flexibility for 1973–1998 Square Body and OBS Chevy/GMC truck swaps. The listing names C10 and C/K 1500 models among compatible applications and specifies alloy-steel construction, making the product’s truck range and adjustment its main selection points.
Adjustment gives a builder a way to position the engine during a conversion, while the stated 1973–1998 range identifies the square-body and OBS truck generations covered. The listing extends its application names to models including C10, C20, C1500, C2500, K1500, and K2500, helping buyers compare a specific truck to the stated scope. Alloy steel is the specified material, and the listed included component is an alternator bracket, which is relevant when organizing the swap parts.
- Adjustable engine-conversion brackets
- Lists 1973–1998 square-body and OBS fitment
- Names several C/K truck models
- Alloy-steel construction; alternator bracket listed as included
- The listing does not identify compatible LS engine families.
Skip it if you need listed engine-family compatibility or transmission combinations; Goopool LS-ESM names both LS engines and transmissions.
For a builder working on a listed 1973–1998 Chevy/GMC truck, these mounts offer adjustable positioning and an explicitly listed alternator bracket. The supplied information names truck applications but not LS engine families, so check that distinction against your build.
Full product details
| Brand | daola888 |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Alternator Bracket |
| Item Dimensions | 8.9 x 4.4 x 3.15 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 8.9 x 4.4 x 3.15 inches |
| Manufacturer | Daola888 |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | Daola888-lsmm-7398 |
Listed on Amazon as: LS Swap Motor Mounts for Square Body/OBS Truck.1973-1998 Black
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #4: Its title specifies LS swap long-tube headers for Chevy and GMC C10 applications across a broad stated truck range.
Long-tube configuration is the clearest differentiator of these Ispeedytech headers, giving LS swap builders a specifically named exhaust-header style for Chevy and GMC trucks. The title lists C10 and C1500 applications from 1960–1998 and names LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS7 engines.
The long-tube description identifies the header style for builders planning an LS conversion, while the stated 1960–1998 range frames the listed C10 application. The title also names C1500, Silverado, and Sierra, along with five LS engine families, so buyers can compare their truck and engine against the product’s stated scope. The available specifications give a 25.3-pound item weight and package dimensions of 38 by 20 by 5.2 inches, useful details when planning handling and storage.
- Long-tube header style
- Lists 1960–1998 Chevy/GMC C10 applications
- Names C1500, Silverado, and Sierra in the title
- Lists LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS7 compatibility
- The stated application is limited to the listed Chevy/GMC truck models and years.
Skip it if you need a listing that specifies header material, included gaskets, or bolts; this listing identifies the long-tube style and truck applications.
These are an option for a builder whose truck and LS engine match the title’s listed applications and who is selecting long-tube headers. The stated scope centers on Chevy/GMC C-series models from 1960–1998, so use that boundary when evaluating fit.
Full product details
| Brand | Ispeedytech |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 25.3 pounds |
| Item model number | O6098FBM |
| Part Number | LHD-LS6098 |
| Package Dimensions | 38 x 20 x 5.2 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: LS Swap Long Tube Headers C10 for 60-98 Chevy GMC Silverado Sierra C10 C1500 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7
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#5 · Shorty Header Option
5. Certified Automotive Experts Shorty Headers
- Weight: 14.6 lb
- Material: Stainless Steel
Best for: Universal shorty-header swap projects.
Why it ranks #5: Lists Square Body truck applications and compatibility with 4.8L through 6.2L Gen III and Gen IV LS engines.
Shorty-style stainless-steel construction gives these Certified Automotive Experts headers a compact alternative to the brand’s long-tube option for LS swap projects. Listed applications include square-body trucks, OBS pickups, Blazers, Suburbans, and S10s, while the stated engine range covers Gen III and Gen IV LS motors from 1998–2020.
The shorty configuration distinguishes these headers from long-tube designs, while stainless-steel construction specifies their material. The listing covers 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L LS1, 6.0L, and 6.2L engines and names a broad range of swap vehicles, including 1973–1987 square-body trucks. That breadth makes them worth considering for varied swap builds, but the listing explicitly says they are for swaps only, not vehicles that came from the factory with an LS-style engine.
- Shorty-style header configuration
- Stainless-steel construction
- Lists several square-body, OBS, and other swap applications
- Names compatibility with Gen III and Gen IV LS engines
- Not designed for vehicles that came from the factory with an LS-style engine.
Skip it if you are replacing headers on a vehicle originally equipped with an LS-style engine; this listing explicitly excludes factory-LS vehicles.
Consider these for a swap builder seeking shorty headers for a listed LS engine and vehicle application. They are not intended for factory-LS vehicles, and the listing excludes LT-style engines from 2014 onward.
Full product details
| Brand | Certified Automotive Experts |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Shorty Headers |
| Item Weight | 14.6 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Certified Automotive Experts |
| Part Number | CAE-030- |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Model Number | GW-CH-EH-030-3 |
Listed on Amazon as: Stainless Steel Headers, Shorty Style for LS Swaps, Universal for Swaps Only, Not Designed to Fit Any Vehicle that came from Factory with an LS Style Engine
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #6: Lists 73–87 Square Body applications and compatibility with 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L and 6.2L LS engines.
Stainless-steel shorty headers give AutoForge’s universal LS-swap offering a defined material and compact header style for a broad set of listed swap vehicles. Applications include 1973–1987 square-body trucks, with engine compatibility stated for 4.8L through 6.2L Gen III and Gen IV LS motors.
Shorty style identifies the header configuration, while stainless steel specifies its material for buyers comparing exhaust parts. The listing names square-body C10, C20, C30, K10, K20, and K30 trucks, along with other swap vehicles, and covers several LS displacements from 4.8L to 6.2L. It also cautions that fitment may vary depending on setup. These headers are explicitly for LS swaps, not vehicles equipped with factory LS engines, a key boundary for selecting the application.
- Shorty-style configuration
- Stainless-steel construction
- Lists 1973–1987 square-body truck applications
- Names 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L, and 6.2L LS engines
- Fitment may vary depending on setup, according to the listing.
Skip it if you need headers for a vehicle originally equipped with a factory LS engine; these are specified for LS swaps only.
These fit a swap builder seeking stainless shorty headers for a listed square-body or other named vehicle and compatible LS engine. Because fitment may vary by setup and factory-LS vehicles are excluded, check those boundaries against the project.
Full product details
| Brand | AutoForge |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 17.81 pounds |
| Item model number | AF-3000-HMAK |
| Manufacturer | AutoForge |
| Part Number | AF-3000-HMAK |
| Model | Shorty Headers |
| Package Dimensions | 22 x 12.5 x 5.5 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Stainless Steel LS Swap Headers, Shorty Style, Universal for LS Swaps Only, Not Designed to Fit Vehicles with Factory LS Engines
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#7
7. folosem LS Swap Mounts
- Dimensions: 0.2 x 0.1 x 0.2 in
- Material: Carbon Steel
Best for: Powder-coated carbon-steel mounts.
Why it ranks #7: Describes carbon-steel LS swap mounts with a protective powder coating, but its listed vehicle fitment is less clearly stated.
Carbon-steel construction with a protective powder coating is the defining feature of folosem’s LS swap mounts, with the listing citing resistance to rust and corrosion. Their stated application covers 1973–1998 Chevy/GMC 2WD and 4WD trucks, including C10 and C/K 1500 models.
The listing connects carbon steel and a protective powder coating with strength and resistance to rust and corrosion, useful considerations for a mount exposed to truck use. It states compatibility with Chevrolet LS-series engines and identifies 1973–1998 Chevy/GMC truck applications, including C10 and C/K 1500 types. Those details let buyers check both engine family and truck range before planning a conversion. The product is identified as a set of LS swap motor mounts, rather than an adapter plate for existing small-block mounts.
- Carbon-steel construction
- Protective powder coating
- Listing states resistance to rust and corrosion
- Covers stated 1973–1998 Chevy/GMC 2WD and 4WD truck applications
- The listing names LS-series engines generally but does not specify individual engine codes.
Skip it if you need compatibility checked against specific LS engine codes; Goopool LS-ESM lists individual LS and Vortec engine families.
These suit a builder seeking coated carbon-steel mounts for a listed 1973–1998 Chevy/GMC 2WD or 4WD truck. The listing describes LS-series compatibility broadly, so the stated information may not resolve a build requiring confirmation of a particular engine code.
Full product details
| Brand | folosem |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | LS Swap Motor Mounts |
| Item Dimensions | 0.2 x 0.1 x 0.2 inches |
| Dimensions | 0.2 x 0.1 x 0.2 inches |
| Manufacturer | folosem |
| Part Number | Y502-A |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Model Number | LS Swap Motor Mounts |
Listed on Amazon as: LS Swap Motor Mounts for Square Body/Fuel Tank Chevrolet, Jimson, Chevrolet GMC Semi-Trailer 2WD, 4WD from 1973 to 1998, Ls Motor MountS are Applicable to C10 C/K 1500 Type Trucks
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#8
8. ICT Billet Adapter Plates
- Weight: 2.1 lb
- Dimensions: 8 x 5 x 1 in
- Material: Aluminum
Best for: SBC-to-LS adapter plate conversion.
Why it ranks #8: Includes two billet-aluminum adapter plates and hardware for adapting an existing small-block vehicle mount to an LS engine.
These ICT Billet adapter plates let an LS engine mount to a vehicle’s existing small-block Chevy arrangement, targeting builders converting from SBC mounts. The plates raise the crankshaft centerline 0.17 inches and are made from 3/8-inch aerospace-grade, USA-produced billet aluminum.
Using existing small-block Chevy mounts gives these plates a distinct role in an SBC-to-LS conversion, rather than serving as truck-specific engine mounts. Their specified 0.17-inch crankshaft-centerline rise is a placement detail for planning the swap. The package includes two adapter plates, eight flat-head bolts, and six M10-1.5 flange bolts; the plates are M10 threaded, and the supplied hardware is specified for use with them. This makes the mounting approach and hardware package clear to the installer.
- Connects an LS engine to an existing small-block Chevy mount arrangement
- Raises crankshaft centerline 0.17 inches
- 3/8-inch aerospace-grade billet aluminum
- Includes two plates, eight flat-head bolts, and six M10-1.5 flange bolts
- Requires an existing small-block Chevy mount arrangement in the vehicle.
Skip it if you need truck-specific conversion mounts rather than plates for existing SBC mounts; daola888 LS Swap Motor Mounts list square-body and OBS truck fitment.
Choose these for an SBC-to-LS conversion where the vehicle’s existing small-block Chevy mounts are part of the plan. Their stated centerline change and included hardware help define the installation, but they are adapter plates rather than standalone truck mounts.
Full product details
| Brand | ICT Billet |
|---|---|
| Color | Natural |
| Item Dimensions | 8 x 5 x 1 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.1 pounds |
| Dimensions | 8 x 5 x 1 inches |
| Manufacturer | ICT Billet |
| Part Number | 551628 |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | 48dba251-1ede-4eff-a5fe-4c2b0a1c5d58 |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including styrene which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: ICT Billet SBC Vehicle to LS Engine – Motor Mount Adapter Plate – Universal Swap Bracket Small Block LS Conversion Adjustable LS1 LS3 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 LS6 L92 L99 L33 LR4 Billet 551628
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#9
9. Yoursme Adapter Plates
- Weight: 1.01 kg
- Material: Aluminum
Best for: Existing SBC mount adapter plates.
Why it ranks #9: Provides two aluminum small-block-to-LS adapter plates and hardware, but does not identify Square Body truck fitment.
Yoursme’s adapter plates let an LS-series engine bolt into a vehicle originally equipped with a small-block Chevy, using the vehicle’s existing mounts. The plates raise the crankshaft centerline 0.17 inches and include the specified bolts, making them a defined option for an SBC-to-LS conversion.
Using existing SBC mounts gives these plates a specific conversion workflow: they connect an LS engine to a vehicle that originally had a small-block Chevy. The stated 0.17-inch crankshaft-centerline rise provides a concrete placement consideration for the build. The listed package includes two adapter plates, eight flat-head bolts, and six M10-1.5 flange bolts, with the plates M10 threaded. Aluminum construction completes the material specification, while the named engine families include LS1, LS2, LS3, LQ4, and others.
- Allows LS installation using existing small-block Chevy mounts
- Raises crankshaft centerline 0.17 inches
- Aluminum adapter plates
- Includes two plates, eight flat-head bolts, and six M10-1.5 flange bolts
- Only addresses vehicles with an original small-block Chevy mount arrangement.
Skip it if you need standalone mounts for a truck conversion rather than SBC-to-LS adapter plates; folosem LS Swap Motor Mounts list truck applications.
These suit builders converting an original small-block Chevy vehicle to an LS while retaining its existing mounts. The 0.17-inch centerline rise and included hardware are relevant planning details, but the product’s stated role is adapter plates, not standalone mounts.
Full product details
| Brand | Yoursme |
|---|---|
| Color | Silver |
| Item Weight | 1.01 kg |
| Manufacturer | Yoursme |
| Part Number | LSI |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | 551628 |

#10
10. Hooker G-Body Bracket
- Weight: 2.4 lb
- Dimensions: 6.75 x 5.38 x 2 in
- Material: Plastic
Best for: G-body crossmember add-on bracket.
Why it ranks #10: This is a G-Body crossmember add-on bracket, not a Square Body truck-specific LS swap part, so it is the weakest match.
An optimized engine and transmission inclination angle is the key function of Hooker’s G-body crossmember add-on bracket, with the listing tying that angle to suitable U-joint working angles. Its welded-steel construction and CAD modeling/FEA analysis address fitment and structural design for the stated G-body application.
The bracket’s stated purpose is to optimize engine and transmission inclination, helping establish suitable U-joint working angles in the intended G-body setup. Welded-steel construction and CAD modeling/FEA analysis are specified as part of its design, while the listing also identifies easy installation. These details make it a targeted crossmember add-on rather than a general square-body LS-swap mount. The title explicitly names G-body, so square-body truck builders should treat that application distinction as a key fit consideration.
- Optimizes engine/transmission inclination angle
- Listing links the angle to suitable U-joint working angles
- Welded-steel construction
- CAD modeling/FEA analysis specified
- Specified for G-body applications, not identified as a square-body truck bracket.
Skip it if you need a bracket specifically listed for a square-body truck; this Hooker product is identified as a G-body crossmember add-on.
This is for a G-body builder addressing crossmember, drivetrain inclination, and U-joint working angles. Its stated application is G-body, so it is not a square-body-specific selection for a C10 or similar truck conversion.
Full product details
| Brand | Hooker |
|---|---|
| Color | No Color |
| Included Components | Hooker G-Body Ls Swap Crossmember Add-On Bracket |
| Item Dimensions | 6.75 x 5.38 x 2 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 6.75 x 5.38 x 2 inches |
| Manufacturer | Hooker |
| Part Number | 12655HKR |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Warranty |
| Material | Plastic |
| Model Number | 12655HKR |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: Hooker G-Body Ls Swap Crossmember Add-On Bracket
View on AmazonAvoid treating universal headers as guaranteed-fit headers
Universal LS swap headers do not guarantee clearance in every Square Body configuration. The shorty header listings describe a broad range of vehicles and say fitment can vary, while the long-tube listing provides a fitment and clearance video for its test truck. That difference matters because steering, frame, engine placement and transmission choices can affect whether a header route works in an individual build.
A listed vehicle range is a starting point, not proof of clearance for a particular combination. Before buying, compare the exact year and 2WD or 4WD configuration, identify the LS engine and transmission, and ask the seller about any setup-specific concerns not covered in the listing.
Do not assume that long-tube and shorty designs are interchangeable: they are distinct routing choices, and the supplied product data does not establish which one will clear every truck.
Choose mounts or adapter plates based on the starting chassis
Truck-specific LS swap mounts and small-block-to-LS adapter plates address different starting points, so confirm what your truck already has before selecting one. Goopool Square Body Mounts and daola888 Square Body Mounts are listed for Square Body and OBS trucks; their descriptions position them as adjustable conversion brackets for truck applications. ICT Billet Adapter Plates and Yoursme Adapter Plates instead describe fitting an LS engine into a vehicle that originally had a small-block Chevy, using the existing mounts.
The adapter plates are not presented as direct replacements for truck-specific conversion mounts. Confusing the two approaches can leave you with a part that does not match your current mounting arrangement.
Check your existing mounts, chassis application and desired engine position against the part description, then verify the remaining installation requirements. The listed data does not establish that these products are interchangeable or that either approach fits every truck.
How to Choose Square Body LS Swap Parts
Match the listed truck fitment
Start with the stated vehicle range and drivetrain because these products cover different applications. Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers list 1960–1987 Chevy and GMC trucks and 1988–1991 Square Body 2WD and 4WD; Goopool Square Body Mounts and daola888 Square Body Mounts list 1973–1998 Square Body and OBS trucks. AutoForge Shorty Headers list Square Body applications among several vehicle types, with fitment varying by setup.
If you need a part with explicit Square Body truck wording, favour the more specific listing; if your build falls outside its stated years or configuration, do not infer compatibility from a broad LS or universal label. Confirm your exact truck before ordering.
Select header style and engine compatibility
Choose a header style that suits your plan, and compare the engine range stated by each listing. Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers specify 1-3/4-inch primaries and a 3-inch merge collector, while the shorty header listings describe a different, shorty-style design. Certified Automotive Experts Shorty Headers and AutoForge Shorty Headers list 4.8L through 6.2L Gen III and Gen IV LS engines; the former explicitly excludes newer LT-style engines.
Buyers focused on a listed long-tube design can start with the first option; those considering shorties should confirm their engine generation and vehicle setup. The supplied facts do not establish clearance for every combination, so verify fitment rather than relying on style or engine family alone.
Check mounting approach and included hardware
Identify whether you need truck-specific conversion mounts or plates that reuse existing small-block mounts. Goopool Square Body Mounts list adjustable placement and compatibility with transmissions including 4L60E, TH350, TH400 and 4L80; daola888 Square Body Mounts also describe adjustable conversion brackets. ICT Billet Adapter Plates and Yoursme Adapter Plates are for installing an LS in a vehicle originally equipped with a small-block Chevy, and each lists two plates plus bolts.
Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers include MLS gaskets and header bolts, unlike several listings whose included components are not stated. Favour the product that matches your existing chassis and mounting hardware; do not assume an unlisted component is included.
Which Square Body LS Swap Part Should You Choose?
For a Square Body truck needing headers, start with Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers: they name Square Body applications and provide primary, collector and included-hardware details. Choose Goopool Square Body Mounts if you want adjustable truck conversion mounts and value the listed 1973–1998 range and transmission compatibility; daola888 Square Body Mounts are another adjustable option with the same broad stated truck years. If your build calls for shorty headers, compare Certified Automotive Experts Shorty Headers and AutoForge Shorty Headers against your engine and exact setup.
For an existing small-block mounting arrangement, consider ICT Billet Adapter Plates or Yoursme Adapter Plates instead of assuming truck-specific mounts are needed. Verify fitment and clearance for your own configuration before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will long-tube or shorty headers clear my steering, frame and transmission setup?
Clearance depends on your exact truck, engine and installation setup; the listings do not guarantee fitment for every configuration. Check the header’s stated application and review any available fitment information, then verify steering, frame and transmission clearance before choosing long-tube or shorty headers.
Do I need truck-specific LS swap mounts or adapter plates for my original small-block mounts?
It depends on your existing mounting arrangement. Truck-specific conversion mounts are an option for a truck swap, while adapter plates are listed for connecting a small-block vehicle mounting arrangement to an LS engine. Compare the product’s stated application with your setup rather than assuming one type is required.
What other parts may I need to complete a square body LS swap beyond headers and mounts?
The listings cover headers, mounts, adapter plates and a crossmember add-on bracket, but they do not establish a complete parts list for your build. Check your engine, transmission and truck configuration to identify any additional components, and confirm compatibility and clearance before buying.
Which listed headers are intended for Square Body applications?
The Certified Automotive Experts long-tube listing specifically names 1988–1991 Square Body applications, as well as earlier classic GM truck years. Other listings describe broader C10, truck or LS-swap applications, so verify their fitment against your exact truck before choosing.
When should I compare adjustable mounts with adapter plates?
Compare adjustable mounts when you want truck conversion mounts and their stated application matches your build. Consider adapter plates when retaining an original small-block mounting arrangement is relevant. The listings describe different approaches, so check fitment and transmission compatibility for your specific configuration.
Final Words
For a Square Body truck that needs headers, start by checking the Certified Automotive Experts long-tube listing, which names Square Body applications and specifies included hardware. If your priority is conversion mounts, compare the adjustable Goopool and daola888 options and verify their stated fitment and transmission compatibility. For a small-block mounting arrangement, compare the ICT Billet and Yoursme adapter plates.
Whichever route you choose, confirm clearance and compatibility with your exact build.



