If you’re looking for a cam for your car with a stock converter, there are a few factors you need to consider before making your purchase. First, you should examine your vehicle’s existing setup and determine whether or not a cam upgrade is feasible. Next, you need to think about what specific qualities you want in your cam, including power output, torque, and RPM range. With these factors in mind, you can begin looking for the right cam for your needs.
When shopping for a cam, it’s important to consider your budget, as well as the overall quality and reputation of the product. Additionally, you should take your driving habits into account, as a cam that’s too aggressive can be detrimental to your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Finally, it is essential to ensure that the cam you choose is compatible with your car’s existing stock converter, as this can greatly affect how well the cam performs.
Are you looking to give your vehicle a boost? Do you want to maximize performance and efficiency on the road? Are you curious about the benefits of upgrading to a cam with a stock converter? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of upgrading your vehicular cam and share some tips and tricks for selecting the perfect product. So, whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or a curious novice, read on to learn more!
10 Best Cam For 5.3 With Stock Converter
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This product is designed for enhancing the performance of Vortec truck engines with 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L displacements.
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The product is ideal for enhancing the performance and power of LS engines ranging from 4.8L to 6.2L.
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3
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It is ideal for improving the engine performance of Silverado and Sierra Vortec models with 4.8, 5.3, 6.0, and 6.2 engines.
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4
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The product is ideal for improving the performance of LS engines in various vehicles with compatible engine sizes.
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5
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This product is designed for high-performance engine upgrades on 4.8, 5.3, 5.7, and 6.0 LS engines.
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6
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This product is ideal for improving the performance of Vortec truck engines 4.8, 5.3, and 6.0.
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7
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The product is ideal for improving the performance of LS engines with a cathedral-shaped combustion chamber.
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8
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This engine camshaft is ideal for use with GM Chevrolet LS engines from 1997-2007, ranging from 5.3L to 6.2L V8.
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9
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The product is ideal for enhancing the performance of Chevrolet GM Gen III/IV 5.3 Vortec LS engines.
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10
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This product is ideal for improving engine performance and increasing horsepower in compatible vehicles.
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1. Vortec Cam Kit: Rev Up Your Truck
Upgrade your truck's performance with the Brian Tooley Racing BTR Truck Stage 2 Camshaft Kit 4.8 5.3 6.0 Camshaft and Beehive Springs and Michigan Motorsports Valve Seals. This kit includes a Stage 2 Truck Cam, Beehive Springs and Michigan Motorsports Valve Seals designed to enhance the truck's power output. The Vortec Truck cams are equipped with a 3 bolt cam gear and are engineered with low lift, allowing for the use of GM LS2, LS3 and LS6 springs and pushrods, which makes these the most affordable truck cams available in the market.
The Stage II cam is designed to produce more noticeable idle and average torque production than the Stage I cam, although it sacrifices some low end torque and fuel mileage. This cam is recommended to be used with a stock 4L60E converter in a 4.8/5.3 truck. With specifications of 212/218 .553/.553 111, this is the largest cam available that can be used with stock converter in a 4.8/5.3 truck. Upgrade your truck's performance with the Brian Tooley Racing BTR Truck Stage 2 Camshaft Kit and experience the difference it can make to your vehicle's performance.
- Enhances the truck's power output
- Designed with low lift for the use of GM LS2, LS3 and LS6 springs and pushrods
- Most affordable truck cams available in the market
- Produces a more noticeable idle and average torque production than the Stage I cam
- – Sacrifices some low end torque and fuel mileage
2. Tsp Chopacabra Cam Kit: Ls Power Upgrade
Upgrade your truck's performance with the TSP CHOPacabra Truck Cam! With specs of 214/222 .550/.550 108 LSA 106 ICL, this cam kit includes .560 Lift Beehive Springs, Seals, Pushrods, and a Cam Install Kit with a GM Crank Bolt for easy installation. This cam is designed to work with LS6 valve springs and a factory torque converter, making it a great option for engines such as 4.8, 5.3, 5.7, and 6.0 (Equipped with cathedral port heads).
The CHOPacabra cam provides a mean, snarling sound and performance that will leave your opponent second-guessing what they just witnessed. It boasts a power increase of over 65+hp and 25+ft lbs of torque at the crank under dyno testing. Despite its impressive power boost, this cam maintains great drivability with an amazing chop!
This TSP cam requires no upgraded rear gear or aftermarket stall converter, making it factory converter friendly. Its operating RPM range is between 1200-6500, making it a versatile option for your truck's performance needs.
- Easy installation with a Cam Install Kit included
- Great option for engines such as 4.8, 5.3, 5.7, and 6.0 (Equipped with cathedral port heads)
- Provides a mean, snarling sound and significant power increase
- Maintains great drivability with an amazing chop
- Factory converter friendly with no required upgraded rear gear or aftermarket stall converter
- Versatile operating RPM range between 1200-6500
3. Btr Truck Stage 3 Kit – Vortec Powerboost.
Upgrade your truck's performance with the Brian Tooley Vortec Racing Truck Cam Kit featuring the Stage 3 Truck Cam, Beehive Springs, Set of VS LS Hat Seals, and 7.400 Chromoly Pushrods. Designed for 4.8 5.3 6.0 6.2 Silverado, Sierra, Yukon, Tahoe, Suburban, and Escalade, this kit is a must-have for truck enthusiasts who want an all-around performance boost.
The Stage III Camshaft Specs of the Stage 3 V2 camshaft are 218/224 with .553/.553 lift and 110+0 lobe separation angle. The camshaft requires a 3 bolt timing gear. Despite sacrificing some low-end torque, the camshaft provides more power higher in the RPM range and a unique BTR idle note.
The Stage 3 grind is still a tow-friendly camshaft, but it is not ideal for everyday hauling. To achieve the best overall performance, it is highly recommended to install a 2800-3000 converter although it will still work with the stock converter in some trucks.
- Improves truck's overall performance with an all-around performance boost
- Distinct BTR idle note adds a unique character to the truck
- Compatible with various truck models
- – Not ideal for everyday hauling
4. Tsp Cathedral Cam Kit With Monster Power.
The Texas Speed TSP BFD Chop Monster 6.0L Cathedral Cam is a powerful camshaft designed for LS engines like LS2, LQ4, LQ9, L76, L77, LY6, L96, LFA, and LZ1. It includes a .660" Dual Spring Kit with Integrated One-Piece Seat & Seal, Titanium Retainers, PAC Springs, 7.400" Chromoly Pushrods, and Crank Bolt & Gaskets for Water Pump, Timing Cover, & Front Seal. This camshaft is engineered to produce the most savage chop possible while delivering big power throughout the curve. It is recommended to use a 3600+ stall with dual .660" valve springs or better to achieve the best performance. Designed to spec with Chop King – Zac Mertens, the BFD is the nastiest sounding cam you can stuff into your LS engine.
The BFD is an excellent choice for those who want to achieve a 10/10 chop for their LS engines. It is also available for L83. The camshaft is perfect for those who want to get the most out of their 5.3, 5.7, 6.0, 6.2, LS7, or Big Inch Stroker LS engines. It is powerful enough to produce 545whp/475wtq through a 4l80e, and it still manages to get 20mpg on the highway. The BFD is the perfect upgrade for those who want to achieve a savage and powerful sound while increasing their engine's performance.
- Produces the most savage chop possible
- Delivers big power throughout the curve
- Includes a .660" Dual Spring Kit with Integrated One-Piece Seat & Seal, Titanium Retainers, PAC Springs, 7.400" Chromoly Pushrods, and Crank Bolt & Gaskets for Water Pump, Timing Cover, & Front Seal
- Designed to spec with Chop King – Zac Mertens
- Perfect for LS engines like LS2, LQ4, LQ9, L76, L77, LY6, L96, LFA, and LZ1
- Powerful enough to produce 545whp/475wtq through a 4l80e
- Improves engine performance
5. Ls 228r Cam Kit & Gasket Set
The Texas Speed TSP 228R 228/228 .600"/.600" 112 LSA Camshaft is an ideal choice for customers who want a camshaft that is streetable and provides a power gain of approximately 5-7 horsepower over the 224R camshaft. The camshaft comes with a TSP .660" Dual Spring Kit that includes PAC Racing Polished Springs, Titanium Retainers, Hardened Spring Seats, and New Valve Stem Seals, as well as a Michigan Motorsports Gasket Set that includes Crank Bolt, Water Pump Gaskets, Timing Cover Gasket, and Front Seal Gasket.
The 112 LSA brings the camshaft's powerband lower in the RPM band, creating a slightly rougher idle. Dyno testing has shown that the 228R camshaft can produce solid power gains of 45-50rwhp. However, due to its size, we recommend a larger than stock stall converter in automatic cars, and tuning will be required in both automatic and manual applications.
- Provides a power gain of approximately 5-7 horsepower over the 224R camshaft
- Comes with a TSP .660" Dual Spring Kit and Michigan Motorsports Gasket Set
- 112 LSA brings the camshaft's powerband lower in the RPM band, creating a slightly rougher idle
- Dyno testing has shown that the 228R camshaft can produce solid power gains of 45-50rwhp
- – Requires a larger than stock stall converter in automatic cars
- – Tuning will be required in both automatic and manual applications
6. Btr Truck Cam Kit: Power-Packed Performance Boost Essential.
The Brian Tooley Low Lift BTR Stage 4 Truck Cam V2, 224/230 .553"/.553" 109 is designed for 99-13 GM truck applications. The cam kit includes a truck cam, beehives springs, Michigan Motorsports seals and gasket kit, and 7.400" chromoly pushrods. The Stage 4 grind is popular not only in the truck world but also in the street car market. It is designed for consumers seeking maximum peak power and is not recommended for everyday towing purposes. The camshaft's grind moves the powerband upstream, making it less ideal for bottom end torque. However, it produces a distinct note that enthusiasts love, with the 'lope' that many look for when idling at a stoplight. The kit options include a camshaft only, camshaft with springs and Michigan Motorsports seals, camshaft with springs, Michigan Motorsports seals, and gasket kit, and camshaft with springs, Michigan Motorsports seals, gaskets, and pushrods.
The Brian Tooley Low Lift BTR Stage 4 Truck Cam V2 is an ideal option for those looking to boost their engine's performance. The kit provides everything needed to install the camshaft, making it convenient for the consumer. The camshaft's grind produces a unique note that many enthusiasts love, giving their vehicle a distinct sound. The chromoly pushrods included in the kit are durable and strong enough to handle the camshaft's power. The beehive springs included in some kit options provide additional support for the valve train, ensuring that the engine performs at its best.
Overall, the Brian Tooley Low Lift BTR Stage 4 Truck Cam V2 is a great addition to any GM truck or street car. It provides maximum peak power and a unique note that many enthusiasts love. The kit options make it easy to choose the right package for your needs.
- Produces a distinct note that many enthusiasts love
- Provides maximum peak power
- Includes everything needed to install the camshaft
- Kit options provide convenience and eliminate guesswork
- Chromoly pushrods are durable and strong enough to handle the camshaft's power
- Beehive springs provide additional support for the valve train, ensuring optimal performance
- – Not recommended for everyday towing purposes
- – Moves the powerband upstream, making it less ideal for bottom end torque
7. Tsp Ls Chop Monster Cam Kit.
Upgrade your LS engine with the Texas Speed TSP BFD Chop Monster 5.3L Cathedral Cam. This cam is designed to deliver the most savage chop possible while delivering big power throughout the curve. It is compatible with LS 5.3, 5.7, 6.0, 6.2, and 7.0 engines, as well as LS7 and Big Inch Stroker LS. It is also available for L83.
The TSP BFD Chop Monster Cam comes with a .660" Dual Spring Kit with Integrated One-Piece Seat & Seal, Titanium Retainers, PAC Springs, 7.400" Chromoly Pushrods, and Michigan Motorsports Crank Bolt & Gaskets for Water Pump, Timing Cover, & Front Seal. The cam is designed to spec with Chop King – Zac Mertens, ensuring the nastiest sounding cam you can stuff into your LS engine.
For optimal performance, a 3600+ stall is recommended, and dual .660" valve springs or better are required. The BFD cam is engineered to give your naturally aspirated LS engine a significant power boost, making it perfect for those looking for an upgrade.
Upgrade your LS engine's sound and performance with the Texas Speed TSP BFD Chop Monster Cam.
- Delivers the most savage chop possible while delivering big power throughout the curve
- Compatible with LS 5.3, 5.7, 6.0, 6.2, and 7.0 engines, as well as LS7 and Big Inch Stroker LS
- Designed to spec with Chop King – Zac Mertens for optimal performance
- Comes with a .660" Dual Spring Kit with Integrated One-Piece Seat & Seal, Titanium Retainers, PAC Springs, 7.400" Chromoly Pushrods, and Michigan Motorsports Crank Bolt & Gaskets for Water Pump, Timing Cover, & Front Seal
- – A 3600+ stall is recommended for optimal performance
- – Dual .660" valve springs or better are required
8. Sloppy Cam: High-Performance Ls Engine Upgrade
Upgrade your GM Chevy LS engine with this high-performance hydraulic roller lift camshaft, compatible with LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 LSx Sloppy Stage 2 from 1997-2007. Please note that this camshaft is not compatible with Active Fuel Management (AFM) engines and stock valve springs cannot be used. We recommend using PAC1218 valve springs for the best results.
The Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft is a direct replacement for the E-1840-P part number, manufactured to OEM standards to provide the same performance and durability as the original part. No tuning is required, making it easy to replace your old camshaft with this new one.
The Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft has a valve lift of .585" for both intake and exhaust valves, and has an RPM range of 2200 to 5400. It has a lobe separation angle of 112° and an intake centerline of 108°. The advertised intake duration is 283° and the advertised exhaust duration is 286°. The intake duration @.050" is 228° and the exhaust duration @.050" is 230°.
Before purchasing, please ensure that the Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft is compatible with your car's model. Our professional technical team is available 24/7 to assist you with any questions or doubts you may have.
- Direct replacement for E-1840-P part number
- Manufactured to OEM standards
- No tuning required
- High-performance hydraulic roller lift camshaft with a valve lift of .585" for both intake and exhaust valves
- RPM range of 2200 to 5400
- Professional technical team available 24/7 for assistance
- – Not compatible with Active Fuel Management (AFM) engines
- – Stock valve springs cannot be used
9. Ls Cam Kit By Texas Speed – Chop Monster
Experience the most savage chop humanly possible with the TSP B.F.D. 'Chop Monster' 5.3L Cam. With its 228/232 cam specs, .629"/.600" lift, 108 LSA, and 105 ICL, this cam is designed for 2000-6500 RPM range and can produce 50-55+ HP with proper tuning. However, to fully utilize its potential, it requires a 3200+ aftermarket stall converter and 3.23+ rear gear. The cam can be daily driven with a proper tune but it's best suited for 5.7's and 6.0's rather than 5.3's, which might have slight surging in lower RPM ranges.
Upgrade your engine performance with the TSP B.F.D. 'Chop Monster' 5.3L Cam and enjoy the most aggressive sound and excellent horsepower gains.
Note: Professional installation and tuning are highly recommended for this cam.
- Produces the most savage chop possible
- Delivers 50-55+ HP gains with proper tuning
- Suitable for daily driving with proper tuning
- Ideal for 5.7's and 6.0's
- – Requires a 3200+ aftermarket stall converter and 3.23+ rear gear
- – Might experience slight surging in lower RPM ranges with 5.3's
- – Professional installation and tuning are highly recommended
10. Melling Mc1383 Camshaft
Looking for a reliable auto part? Look no further than this product, made in the United States with quality materials to ensure longevity and top-notch performance.
Measuring at 6.4 cms in length and width, and 53.3 cms in height, this product is designed to fit seamlessly into your vehicle and enhance its efficiency.
With a package quantity of 1, you can trust that you're receiving a high-quality, individual product that has been carefully crafted and tested to ensure superior performance and durability.
- Reliable auto part made with quality materials
- Designed to fit seamlessly into your vehicle for enhanced efficiency
- High-quality, individual product that has been carefully crafted and tested for superior performance and durability
Best Cam For 5.3 With Stock Converter FAQs
Are there any specific installation considerations I should keep in mind when installing a cam on a 5.3 with a stock converter?
Yes, there are some important installation considerations to keep in mind when installing a cam on a 5.3 with a stock converter. The first thing to consider is the type of cam you are installing. You want to make sure that it is compatible with the stock converter and that it won't cause any problems with the transmission. It's also important to choose a cam that is appropriate for the type of driving you'll be doing.
Another consideration is the valve train. When you install a cam, you will need to make sure that the valve train is properly adjusted and that the pushrods are the correct length. This is important for both performance and reliability. You may also need to upgrade the valve springs to handle the increased lift and duration of the cam.
Lastly, you will need to tune the engine after the cam is installed. This will ensure that the engine is running smoothly and that you are getting the most performance out of the cam. It's important to work with a qualified tuner who has experience with cam installations.
Overall, installing a cam on a 5.3 with a stock converter can be a great way to increase performance, but it's important to do it right. Take the time to choose the right cam and make sure that all of the necessary adjustments and upgrades are made. With the right setup, you can enjoy improved performance and a more exciting driving experience.
Can I install a high-performance cam in my 5.3 without changing the stock converter?
Yes, it is possible to install a high-performance cam in a 5.3 engine without changing the stock converter. However, it is important to note that the performance gains may not be as significant as they would be with a higher stall converter.
A high-performance cam can improve the engine's power and torque output by increasing the duration and lift of the valve opening. This can result in better throttle response, increased horsepower, and improved acceleration.
However, a high-performance cam can also increase the load on the transmission, which may cause the stock converter to slip or overheat. If you plan on running a high-performance cam in your 5.3 engine, it is recommended to upgrade to a higher stall converter to ensure that the transmission can handle the increased load.
Ultimately, the decision to change the converter depends on your performance goals and the overall condition of your transmission. If you want to get the most out of your high-performance cam, upgrading to a higher stall converter is the way to go.
How much of a power increase can I expect from a cam upgrade on a 5.3 with a stock converter?
A cam upgrade on a 5.3 engine with a stock converter can provide a noticeable increase in power. The extent of the power increase will depend on several factors such as the type of camshaft, the quality of the installation, and the other modifications made to the engine. In general, a performance camshaft can improve low-end torque and mid-range power, which can result in a more responsive engine and better acceleration. The power gains from a cam upgrade can vary widely, but in some cases, it can add up to 30-40 horsepower or more. However, it's important to note that a cam upgrade alone may not be enough to achieve significant power gains, and other modifications such as intake and exhaust upgrades, tuning, and fuel system upgrades may be necessary to take full advantage of the camshaft upgrade. In summary, a cam upgrade can provide a noticeable power increase on a 5.3 engine with a stock converter, but the extent of the increase will depend on several factors.
What is the best cam for a 5.3 with a stock converter?
When it comes to selecting the best cam for a 5.3 engine with a stock converter, there are a few key factors to consider.
Firstly, you want to choose a cam that is compatible with the stock converter. This means selecting a cam with a relatively mild lift and duration that won't cause the engine to stall or lose power at low RPMs.
Secondly, you'll want to consider your performance goals. If you're looking to boost horsepower and torque, you may want to choose a cam with a slightly more aggressive profile that will provide a boost in power throughout the entire RPM range.
Some popular cam options for a 5.3 with a stock converter include the Texas Speed and Performance Stage 1 cam, the Comp Cams XFI NSR cam, and the Brian Tooley Racing Stage 2 cam. Ultimately, the best cam for your engine will depend on your specific goals and the intended use of your vehicle. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional mechanic or performance shop for personalized recommendations.
Will upgrading the cam on my 5.3 with a stock converter affect drivability?
Upgrading the cam on your 5.3 engine can certainly affect drivability, especially if you're using a stock converter. A cam upgrade can improve your engine's horsepower and torque, but it can also change the engine's operating characteristics such as idle quality, low-speed drivability, and overall power delivery. If you install a camshaft with a more aggressive profile, it can cause a rough idle, a lopey sound, and a decrease in low-end torque. This can make your vehicle harder to drive in stop-and-go traffic or around town.
Moreover, if you're using a stock torque converter, it may not be able to handle the increased power and torque from the new cam. This can cause your transmission to slip, overheat, or fail prematurely. So, if you're planning to upgrade your cam, it's recommended that you also upgrade your torque converter to a high-stall unit that's matched to your engine's new power level. This will ensure that your vehicle's drivability is not negatively impacted and you can fully enjoy the benefits of the new cam upgrade.