Find the right cam and lifter kit for your GM LS-powered truck or SUV. This guide targets buyers seeking kits that include cams, lifters, trays, and gaskets for 1999–2013 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L, and 6.2L engines. Each pick is evaluated for low-end torque, mid-range power, drivability, and install practicality. Best for enthusiasts chasing stronger sound and improved performance without overhauling the entire valvetrain.
Summary table of selected products
| Product | Brand | Best For | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TSP Chopacabra Cam Kit (Truck) | Dynosty | Strong low-end torque, aggressive sound | Cam, Beehive Springs, Seals, Pushrods | Best for harsh sound and torque in trucks |
| Chopacabra Truck Install Kit | Michigan Motorsports | Complete install with lifters & trays | Camshaft, Delphi Lifters, Lifter Trays, MLS Gaskets | Good all-in-one option |
| BTR Norris Cam Kit | Dynosty | Versatile LS engine range | Camshaft, Springs, Lifters, Trays, Head Gaskets | Broad compatibility |
| Sloppy Stage 2 Kit (E1840P) | WANGSHENG | Stage 2 performance | Cam, Lifters, Trays, Pushrods, Gaskets | High lift, strong duration |
| Truck Norris Kit (Delphi Lifters) | Dynosty | Durable LS truck builds | Cam, Lifters, Trays, Pushrods | Long-term valvetrain stability |
Texas Speed TSP Chopacabra Cam Kit with Springs Seals Pushrods
Best for: LS truck engines that demand a snarling sound and strong low-end torque. This kit includes a CHOPacabra cam with 214/222 duration, .550/.550 lift, 108 LSA, and 106 ICL, plus .560 lift beehive springs, valve seals, and OE replacement pushrods. It’s designed to work with LS6 valve springs and a factory torque converter.
Why chosen: The CHOPacabra profile emphasizes immediate throttle response and a pronounced exhaust note, making it a solid choice for street and strip performance in trucks. The included springs and seals support reliable valve control for higher lift.
Best for whom: Builders seeking a ready-to-install truck cam with reliable supporting hardware, without sourcing springs separately.
Caution: Cam compatibility with factory torque converters and LS6 valve springs may require confirmatory checks during installation to avoid valvetrain interference.
Texas Speed Chopacabra Truck Camshaft Install Kit
Best for: Builds needing a complete install solution with lifters and trays, paired with a robust cam profile for LS engines in trucks.
Why chosen: It combines a proven Chopacabra cam profile with Delphi LS7 lifters and OEM-style trays, promoting quieter valvetrain operation and reliable lifter alignment across RPM ranges.
Best for whom: Enthusiasts performing a full rebuild or cam swap and wanting an all-in-one kit with trusted lifters and trays.
Caution: This kit’s performance depends on proper lifter seating and gasket compatibility; ensure correct gasket sets for your engine family.
Dynosty BTR Truck Norris Cam Kit with Pushrods
Best for: LS 4.8L, 5.3L, and 5.7L trucks seeking a balanced, sturdy upgrade with trusted components like Delphi lifters and BTR springs.
Why chosen: The kit integrates a Cam Kit with pushrods, Delphi lifters, and trays, addressing critical drivetrain components in one package for a reliable build.
Best for whom: Builders who value OEM-style lifters and include gaskets as part of the package for a straightforward swap.
Caution: Ensure engine compatibility across your specific model year; some configurations may require additional gasket or timing cover components not listed here.
Texas Speed & Performance Chopacabra Install Kit for Gen III/IV LS
Best for: Gen III/IV LS trucks with 6.0L or 6.2L displacement, seeking a CHOPacabra cam and supporting LS7 lifters with trays.
Why chosen: This package emphasizes the CHOPacabra profile with a complete Delta of components including lifters and guide trays, designed for durability in heavy-duty LS builds.
Best for whom: Performance-minded owners who want a robust, all-in-one kit that aligns with 6.0/6.2 engines and LS3-based profiles.
Caution: Check 3-bolt mounting compatibility and ensure you have the correct timing cover and gaskets for your engine year.
E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Kit
Best for: Chevy/GMC LS Gen 3/4 4.8L, 5.3L Vortec engines requiring a complete Stage 2 upgrade with lifters and trays.
Why chosen: The kit provides a cam with substantial lift and duration, alongside LS7 lifters with trays, multiple beehive springs, pushrods, and gaskets for a full installation.
Best for whom: Builders targeting noticeable performance gains in mid-range without extensive aftermarket headwork.
Caution: Stage 2 profiles may increase valve train stress; confirm compatibility with your current valve springs and torque converter requirements.
Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifter Kit (IgniSpark)
Best for: 1997–2007 GM Chevy LS1/LS2/LS6 engines requiring a comprehensive Stage 2 cam and lifter package with gaskets and pushrods.
Why chosen: This kit mirrors the Sloppy Stage 2 approach with a complete set of lifters, trays, gaskets, and pushrods, aiming for a cohesive performance upgrade across multiple LS family engines.
Best for whom: Builders who prefer a single-source Stage 2 kit that covers essential gasketing and lifter hardware for LS1/LS2/LS6 builds.
Caution: Data shows a strong lift and duration; verify suitable valve spring compatibility and avoid excessive idle roughness on some applications.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Your LS Cam And Lifter Kit
- Engine compatibility: Confirm your exact engine displacement (4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L, etc.) and generation (Gen III/IV) before choosing a kit.
- Cam profile and lift: Higher duration and lift increase power but may affect idle quality and valve train wear; balance your goals with drivability.
- Lifters and trays: Including Delphi or LS7 lifters and proper trays reduces valvetrain wear and ensures lifter alignment at all RPMs.
- Springs and gaskets: Be sure the kit’s springs handle your cam lift and that MLS or OEM head gaskets fit your engine family.
- Install considerations: Some kits include timing covers, gaskets, and timing hardware; others require sourcing these separately. Plan for a proper torque sequence and gaskets set.
- Noise and drivability: Be mindful that more aggressive cams can alter idle smoothness and fuel economy. Choose a spec that matches your daily driver needs.
- Budget vs value: A complete kit with lifters, trays, and gaskets often saves time and reduces mismatch risks compared to buying components separately.
FAQ
- What is the CHOPacabra cam profile best for? It emphasizes strong low-end torque and a pronounced exhaust note, suitable for LS trucks seeking aggressive performance.
- Do these kits include all necessary gaskets? Some do; verify the included gasket sets to avoid missing pieces during install.
- Will a higher lift cam affect valve train durability? Yes, higher lift can increase wear if supporting hardware is not upgraded accordingly; use the recommended lifters and springs.
- Can I install a cam kit in a daily-driven vehicle? Yes, but expect changes in idle quality and potentially a need for tuning for optimal driveability.
- Are Delphi lifters compatible with all LS engines? Delphi lifters are commonly used for LS engines, but always confirm compatibility with your specific cam and engine model.
- Is a lifter tray necessary with a new cam? Lifter trays help maintain correct lifter alignment and reduce wear, especially on higher-lift profiles.