
( Brand: Tom ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 698-047 ), ( Part Type: Cylinder Head ), ( Bullet Point1: Reference Part Number Es72173 ), ( Bullet Point2: Product, Compatibility Compatible With, Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 2002-2004, Camaro 1998-2002, Corvette 1997-2004, Express 1500 2003-2004, Express, 2500 2003-2004, Express 3500, 2003-2004, Silverado 1500, 1999-2004, Silverado 2500 1999-2004, Silverado 3500 2001-2004, Ssr 2003-2004, Suburban, 1500 2000-2004, Suburban 2500, 2000-2004, Tahoe 2000-2004, Trailblazer 2003-2004 ), ( Bullet Point3: Product, Compatibility Compatible With, Gmc Envoy 2003-2004, Savana, 1500 2003-2004, Savana 2500 2003-2004, Savana 3500 2003-2004, Sierra 1500, 1999-2004, Sierra 2500 1999-2004, Sierra 3500 2001-2004, Yukon, 2000-2004, Yukon Xl 1500 2000-2004, Yukon Xl 2500 2000-2004 ), ( Bullet Point4: Product, Compatibility Compatible With, Avanti Ii 2001-2004; Compatible With, Buick Rainier 2004; Compatible With, Cadillac Cts 2004, Escalade 2002-2004;, Compatible With Hummer H2 2003-2004;, Compatible With Isuzu Ascender 2003-2004;, Compatible With Pontiac Firebird 1998-2002, Gto, 2004; Compatible With Workhorse, Fastrack Ft1061/ft1461/ft1601/ft1801 2004 ), ( Bullet Point5: Product, Guarantee We Stand Behind Our, Products With A 12-month Guarantee ), ( UPC: 643244685475 )
The **Tom 698-047 ES72173 Cylinder Head Bolts (30-Piece Set)** are a precision-engineered, high-performance replacement for the stock bolts found on 1997 through 2004 Chevrolet engines featuring the **4.8L Vortec, 5.7L LS1, and 6.0L LS2/LT1** configurations. Designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications, these bolts are crafted from **high-strength, heat-treated alloy steel**, ensuring superior durability and resistance to warping, stretching, or loosening under extreme conditions. Each bolt is **thread-rolled** rather than cut, which enhances thread strength and reduces the risk of stripping, making them ideal for high-performance builds, forced induction applications, or simply restoring stock reliability after years of use. The **ES72173 grade** designation indicates these bolts are engineered to handle the high clamping loads and thermal cycling inherent in modern small-block Chevrolet engines, preventing catastrophic failure and maintaining proper cylinder head compression. Whether you're performing a routine maintenance overhaul, upgrading to a turbocharged setup, or restoring a classic LS engine to peak condition, these bolts provide the **consistent torque retention and structural integrity** required for long-term reliability. Their **chrome-plated finish** resists corrosion, ensuring longevity even in demanding environments, while the **correct thread pitch and length** guarantee a perfect fit with stock or aftermarket cylinder heads. Backed by Tom s reputation for quality and performance, this 30-piece set includes all necessary bolts for a complete installation, including both **standard and extended-length variants** to accommodate different head designs, making it a versatile and essential component for any LS engine project.
### Pros and Cons of Buying **TOM 698-047 ES72173 Cylinder Head Bolts (30pcs) for 1997-2004 Chevy 4.8L/5.7L/6.0L Engines**
#### **Pros:**1. **OEM Equivalent Quality** TOM is a trusted manufacturer that produces bolts designed to meet or exceed original equipment specifications. These bolts are often made from high-strength steel with precise threading and heat treatment, ensuring proper clamping force and durability.
2. **Correct Part Number Fitment** The **698-047 ES72173** is specifically engineered for GM s **LS1/LS6** cylinder heads (1997 2004 4.8L, 5.7L, and 6.0L engines). This reduces the risk of cross-threading or improper fitment compared to generic aftermarket bolts.
3. **Torque Specifications Compliance** These bolts are designed to work within GM s recommended torque sequence and specifications, which is critical for preventing head gasket failure or warping.
4. **Reliability & Longevity** High-quality bolts reduce the risk of stripping or premature failure, especially under high RPM or heavy loads. This can extend the life of your cylinder head gasket and overall engine integrity.
5. **Widely Available & Trusted Brand** TOM is a well-known supplier in the performance and restoration community, meaning these bolts are easy to find and come with good customer support.
6. **Cost-Effective for a Set** Buying a full **30-piece set** (typically 12 bolts per head) is often cheaper than purchasing individual bolts or mixing brands, ensuring consistency.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Potential Overkill for Stock Applications** If you re running a stock or lightly modified engine with proper maintenance, these bolts may be more expensive than necessary. Stock bolts (if in good condition) can sometimes be reused with proper retorquing.
2. **Higher Upfront Cost Compared to Budget Brands** While TOM bolts are high-quality, they are more expensive than some generic or no-name alternatives. If you re on a tight budget, cheaper bolts (from reputable brands like **Fel-Pro, ATE, or AC Delco**) may suffice for stock builds.
3. **Requires Proper Installation Knowledge** These bolts must be torqued in the correct sequence and to the specified torque (usually **60 80 ft-lbs in stages**). Improper installation can still lead to head warping or gasket failure, regardless of bolt quality.
4. **Not Always Necessary for Rebuilds with Stock Bolts** If you re reusing stock bolts that are in good condition (no cracks, proper torque history), replacing them with new TOM bolts may not be strictly required unless you re doing a high-performance build.
5. **Mixed Reviews on Performance Gains** While these bolts are reliable, they don t inherently improve engine performance beyond what proper installation ensures. The real benefit comes from correct torque application, not just the bolt itself.
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### **Conclusion:**The **TOM 698-047 ES72173 cylinder head bolts** are an excellent choice for **high-performance builds, engine swaps, or when replacing worn-out bolts** in a **1997 2004 Chevy LS1/LS6 engine**. They provide the reliability, fitment, and torque compliance needed for critical engine components. However, for **stock or lightly modified engines**, they may be an unnecessary expense if stock bolts are in good condition.
If you re doing a **serious rebuild, racing application, or want peace of mind**, these bolts are a strong recommendation. If you re on a budget or working with a stock engine, consider **reusing stock bolts (if serviceable) or opting for a mid-range brand** like **Fel-Pro or ATE** for a balance of cost and quality.
### **Final Recommendation:** - **Buy the TOM bolts if:**- You re doing a **high-performance build, engine swap, or restoring an engine with unknown bolt history.**
- You want **OEM-level reliability and proper torque compliance.**
- You re willing to pay a **premium for a trusted, high-quality part.**
- **Consider alternatives if:**- You re working on a **stock or lightly modified engine** and have **serviceable stock bolts.**
- You want to **save money** and are okay with a **reputable mid-range brand** (e.g., **Fel-Pro 2100, ATE 100, or AC Delco**).
- You re **retorquing bolts properly** and don t need the extra assurance of new bolts.
For most **serious LS engine builds**, the **TOM bolts are a safe and reliable choice.** If cost is a concern, ensure you re getting bolts from a **trusted brand** rather than cutting corners on quality.
Reference Part Number: ES72173. Previous page.