If you’re upgrading an LS-powered setup for boosted performance, a Stage 2 turbo cam is typically chosen for mid-to-high RPM power, improved boost response, and broader torque. This guide highlights five top options, showing who each cam is best for and why. Best for street cars with moderate boost, best for daily drivers with strong acceleration, and best for builds prioritizing high RPM power without sacrificing driveability.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| BTR Stage 2 Turbo Cam (4.8–6.2 LS) — .660″ Lift | Lightweight, high-rPM street cars | Dual valve springs with titanium retainers for a reliable valvetrain at higher RPM |
| BTR Turbo Stage 2 Camshaft (Gen III/IV LS) — 220/23x | Forced induction builds | Optimized for turbocharged performance and broad torque |
| BTR Stage 2 Turbo Camshaft (4.8– LM7, 5.3–6.2) with Titanium Retainers | Versatile turbo setups | Proven 226/231 duration with strong lift and 113 LSA |
| Texas Speed Stage 2 Turbo Cam (4.8–5.3 Cathedral Port) | Boosted engines with cathedral ports | Includes springs kit and pushrods for boosted applications |
| BTR Twin Turbo Stage 2 Camshaft (4.8–6.2) with Titanium Retainers | Multi-turbo, high-boost builds | Balanced for aggressive idle with calm driveability |
BTR Brian Tooley Racing LS Stage 2 Turbo Camshaft (0.660″ Lift) with Titanium Pushrods
The BTR Stage 2 Turbo Camshaft is designed for LS engines paired with turbo setups that demand more RPM and stronger mid-range torque. Cam specs include 226/231 duration with .610″/.609″ lift and a 113 LSA, plus a three-bolt timing gear pattern. This kit includes dual springs with lightweight titanium retainers and 7.400″ chromoly pushrods, supporting higher RPM operation. Best for lighter street cars or prepped race vehicles that demand a notable RPM gain without severe idle changes. Caution: idle may be rougher than stock at low RPMs, and proper tuning is required to maximize gains.
- Best for: light, boosted LS builds that want a stronger top end.
- Why selected: strong lift and RPM capability with robust valvetrain components.
BTR Turbo Stage 2 Camshaft (Gen III/IV LS) — 220/23x, .618″ Lift
This BTR Stage 2 Camshaft emphasizes turbocharged power, with a duration of 220/23x and lift of .618″ in a 3-bolt pattern. It’s tailored for forced induction, aiming to improve boost response while delivering broad torque and power gains. Best for turbocharged LS builds that need a stable valvetrain under boost. Caution: may require supportive components and tuning to realize full potential.
- Best for: turbocharged engines needing strong boost response.
- Why selected: optimized for forced induction with broad torque gains.
BTR Stage 2 Camshaft (4.8–LM7, 5.3–6.2) with Titanium Retainers
This versatile turbo cam is a staple for cathedral-port LS engines leveraging turbocharged setups. Cam specs mirror the 226/231 duration with .610″/.609″ lift and 113 LSA, pairing a 3-bolt pattern with recommended supporting components. Best for builders requiring a proven mid-to-high RPM turbo cam that’s compatible across several LS displacements. Caution: needs precise tuning to optimize driveability and performance.
- Best for: cathedral-port boosted LS engines seeking reliable broad torque.
- Why selected: widely applicable, proven performance across LS platforms.
BTR Stage 2 Turbo Camshaft With Titanium Retainers (Cam, Pushrods)
This BTR kit emphasizes a balanced approach: 220/23x duration, .618″/.618″ lift, and a 113 LSA in a 3-bolt pattern. The inclusion of titanium retainers and high-grade pushrods supports aggressive cam profiles in turbocharged engines. Best for experienced builders who want a reliable, sturdy valvetrain under boost. Caution: ensure supporting components and tuning align with cam timing specs.
- Best for: versatile turbo builds needing strong, reliable valvetrain support.
- Why selected: combination of cam, titanium retainers, and pushrods for boosted performance.
Texas Speed Stage 2 Turbo Cam for Boosted Cathedral LS
The Texas Speed Stage 2 Turbo Cam for boosted cathedral LS engines (LR4/LY2/L20 and related models) is designed for turbocharged applications, featuring a camshaft that works with a full kit including springs, titanium retainers, and pushrods. Cam specs are 214/220 duration with .600″/.600″ lift and a 112+2 LSA. Best for: boosted cathedral-port LS engines that require a complete kit for quick setup. Caution: Prioritize correct valve spring compatibility and gaskets for a leak-free installation.
- Best for: cathedral-port boosted builds needing a complete springs kit.
- Why selected: integrated kit ensures smoother installation and tuning compatibility.
BTR Twin Turbo Stage 2 Camshaft (4.8–6.2 LS) with Titanium Retainers
The BTR Twin Turbo Stage 2 Cam is designed for higher-boost, twin-turbo configurations. Specs show 222/24x duration with .618″/.618″ lift and a 113 LSA in a 3-bolt pattern. Best for: twin-turbo builds that need aggressive top-end power while keeping idle and driveability manageable. Caution: heavy cam profile may require more supporting components and precise tuning to avoid drivability issues at low RPMs.
- Best for: twin-turbo builds seeking strong power and balanced idle.
- Why selected: tuned for aggressive turbo combinations with reliable valvetrain parts.
Buying Guide: Stage 2 Turbo Cam Essentials
Key considerations when selecting a Stage 2 turbo cam include lift, duration, and lobe separation angle (LSA). Higher lift and longer duration typically boost top-end power but can affect idle and low-RPM drivability. A 113 LSA is common for turbo applications, balancing exhaust scavenging and intake timing. Ensure you have compatible springs, pushrods, and titanium retainers to support the cam’s RPM range. Consider the intended boost level, turbo size, and whether your build is daily-driven or race-oriented.
What To Ask Before You Buy
- Is the kit compatible with cathedral-port or rectangular-port LS heads in your build?
- Do you have a supported valvetrain setup (springs, retainers, pushrods) to handle the cam’s lift and RPM?
- Is your tuner prepared to optimize cam timing for boosted operation?
- Are you building for street manners or track-focused performance?
How To Compare These Options
- Best for light vehicles with moderate boost: BTR Stage 2 Cam with titanium retainers.
- Best for turbocharged performance across multiple LS models: 220/23x and 226/231 cams with robust kit options.
- Best for heavy boost or twin-turbo setups: BTR Twin Turbo Stage 2 and Texas Speed Stage 2 options.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Stage 2 mean for turbo cams? It indicates a higher lift and longer duration than Stage 1, designed for increased power at higher RPMs with boosted engines.
- Will a Stage 2 cam idle rough? Some Stage 2 cams can idle rougher; tuning and supporting hardware influence driveability.
- Do I need new springs and pushrods? Yes, these components are typically required to handle higher lift and RPM in boosted builds.
- Is a 113 LSA common for turbo cams? Yes, 113 LSA is a common balance point for turbocharged LS engines to optimize boost and torque.
- Can I install a Stage 2 cam myself? A knowledgeable builder with experience in LS engines and boosted setups is recommended for proper timing, tuning, and safety.