This article reviews top LS engine camshaft kits aimed at street enthusiasts seeking reliable daily-drivable performance from LS1 and other Gen III/IV LS engines. Each option focuses on a balance of lope, idle quality, and real-world power without sacrificing drivability. All selections are designed for 1997-2013 GM/Chevy LS platforms and come as complete kits with cams, springs, seals, and related components. Read on to compare profiles, compatibility, and expected behavior on the street.
Summary of selected products (chosen for street-friendly, torque-rich LS setups):
| Product | Brand | Key Features | Compatibility Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Kit | OWNWEEDA | Cam 228/230, 0.585″/0.585″ lift, 112 LSA; includes springs and seals | Fits 1997-2007 LS engines (4.8L–6.2L), LS1/LS6/LS2/LQ4/LQ9 |
| SUSUCAR Sloppy Stage 2 Cam Kit | SUSUCAR | Cam 228/230, 0.585″/0.585″ lift; 112 LSA; full kit | Gen 3/4 LS 4.8L–6.2L including LS1/LS6/LS2/LQ4/LQ9 |
| Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit | Michigan Motorsports | Cam 228/230, 0.585″/0.585″ lift; includes springs, seals, pushrods | Fits Gen 3/4 LS 4.8L–6.2L |
| Lskioer E-1841-P Sloppy Stage 3 Cam | Lskioer | Cam 296° duration, .595″ lift; 3-bolt pattern; custom tuning required | Chevy/GM LS V8 1997–2017 |
| BTSCAR E1840P Sloppy Stage 2 Kit | BTSCAR | Stage 2 kit; includes lifters, seals, timing chain; OEM-number compatibility | 1997–2013 Chevrolet Gen 3/4 LS engines |
E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Kit
The E1840P Stage 2 kit from OWNWEEDA targets LS platforms with a 228/230 cam profile and a 112 LSA, delivering a strong mid-range punch. The kit includes a 0.585″ intake and exhaust lift, along with 1218 beehive springs and seals designed for reliable valvetrain operation. It is positioned for turbocharged 5.3L builds and also works well with naturally aspirated LS engines. The combination aims to balance daily drivability with noticeable power gains in street use.
SUSUCAR Sloppy Stage 2 Cam Kit
This SUSUCAR Stage 2 kit provides a 228/230 duration with a 0.585″ lift and 112 LSA. The package comes as a comprehensive LS cam kit including cam, 16x 1218 beehive springs, 16x pushrods, gaskets, and other essentials. Engine compatibility spans Gen 3/4 LS engines from 4.8L to 6.2L, covering LS1/LS6/LS2/LQ4/LQ9 configurations. The setup aims to deliver a strong streetable idle with improved mid-range torque and a practical power band for daily driving and weekend outings.
Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Stage 2 Kit
The Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit targets street-friendly LS builds with a 228/230 duration and a 0.585″ lift, paired with all necessary components to support the cam install. It’s designed for Gen 3/4 LS engines across 4.8L–6.2L, including LS1/LS6/LS2/LQ4/LQ9. The kit emphasizes a balanced lopey idle with substantial torque gains suitable for city/highway driving and light-performance applications, while staying mindful of budget-oriented builds.
Lskioer E-1841-P Sloppy Stage 3 Cam
The E-1841-P Stage 3 cam from Lskioer features a high lift of .595″ with a tight 296° duration, designed for LS V8 engines from 1997 to 2017. Its 3-bolt cam design requires compatible valve springs and tuning to maximize performance. It’s intended for enthusiasts seeking a more aggressive street cam with higher power output, while acknowledging the need for calibration and potential lope intensity on idle. Fitment spans a wide range of LS models and supports non-AFM configurations.
BTSCAR E1840P Sloppy Stage 2 Kit
The BTSCAR E1840P Sloppy Stage 2 Kit is designed for 1997–2013 Chevrolet Gen 3/4 LS engines, including 4.8L–6.2L variants. It aligns with OEM numbers E-1840P and PAC-1218 and includes a full stage 2 package with lifters, seals, and a timing chain. This kit aims to offer a robust street-friendly cam setup with reliable component compatibility and a straightforward install path for a wide range of LS builds.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting a cam kit for street LS builds, consider the following factors to align performance, drivability, and reliability with your goals.
- Cam profile and lift: Higher lift and longer duration increase power but may affect idle quality and fuel economy. For street use, a balance like 228/230 with 0.585″ lift tends to offer strong torque without harsh idle.
- LS engine compatibility: Confirm engine displacement, generation (Gen III/IV), and head technology (catalytic ports, AFM). Ensure the kit matches your vehicle’s OEM numbers and your intended setup (NA vs. forced induction).
- Valvetrain components: A complete kit with lifters, springs, seals, and pushrods simplifies installation and reduces part mismatches. Be mindful of valve-spring compatibility with your cam’s lift and duration.
- Calibration and tuning: Higher-performance cams often require ECU tuning and fuel system adjustments. Plan for professional or experienced tuning to maximize gains and maintain engine safety.
- Idle behavior and driveability: Stage 2 cams typically deliver a pronounced lope and a broader torque curve, which can affect daily comfort. Consider cam timing (LSA and IVC/IVR) that matches your desired balance of idle and power.
- Reliability and maintenance: Check kit inclusions (gaskets, timing components, seals) and the availability of replacement springs or lifters. A robust kit minimizes future maintenance surprises.
- Installation constraints: Some cams require 3-bolt or 4-bolt patterns. Confirm compatibility with your existing camshaft and lifter trays, and verify clearance for pushrods and valve train
For street applications, the selected options emphasize a strong mid-range and a confident idle without sacrificing daily drivability. When choosing among these, assess your current setup (head work, exhaust, intake, turbo or NA) and intended use—daily driving, weekend dynamic driving, or occasional track days. Consulting with a professional tuner can help tailor the cam timing and fuel strategy for your specific vehicle and local fuel quality.