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Best Ls1 Cam For Street (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a high-performance camshaft that will transform your street car into a powerhouse, the LS1 cam is an excellent choice. This camshaft is designed to maximize horsepower and torque output, while also maintaining drivability and reliability on the street. With a properly tuned LS1 cam, your car will have improved throttle response, quicker acceleration, and an overall more aggressive sound and feel.

Before you rush out to purchase an LS1 cam for your street car, there are a few important factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll need to make sure that the camshaft is compatible with your engine and other components. You’ll also want to consider factors such as lift, duration, and lobe separation angle, all of which can affect performance and drivability. Additionally, it’s important to choose a reputable brand and consider the warranty and support options available.

If you’re still unsure whether an LS1 cam is right for your street car, consider asking yourself a few important questions. Do you want your car to have more power and speed, or are you happy with its current level of performance? Are you willing to invest the time and money needed to properly install and tune a new camshaft? And finally, are you prepared for the potential trade-offs in drivability and reliability that may come with a more aggressive cam? By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether an LS1 cam is the right choice for your street car.

10 Best Ls1 Cam For Street

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for improving the performance of various LS engine models with camshaft, springs, seals, gaskets, and pushrods.
2
This product is ideal for increasing power and performance in LS1, LS6, and LS2 engines.
3
This product is ideal for improving the performance of an LS1 5.7L Cathedral Cam engine with a camshaft, spring set, and gasket kit.
4
It is ideal for improving the performance of Gen 3/4 LS engines ranging from 4.8 to 6.2 liters.
5
It is ideal for increasing horsepower in LS1, LS2, and LS6 naturally aspirated engines with upgraded springs and pushrods.
6
This product is ideal for improving the performance of LS1 5.7L V8 engines from 2000-2007.
7
The product is ideal for upgrading and improving the performance of LS LS1 5.3L and 5.7L engines.
8
The product is ideal for improving the performance of LS engines with various displacements and Vortec heads.
9
This product is ideal for improving the performance of Chevrolet Gen III/IV 5.7/6.0 Vortec LS1/LS2 engines.
10
The product is ideal for improving the performance of LS engines in various vehicles with compatible engine sizes.
This product is ideal for improving the performance of various LS engine models with camshaft, springs, seals, gaskets, and pushrods.
This product is ideal for increasing power and performance in LS1, LS6, and LS2 engines.
This product is ideal for improving the performance of an LS1 5.7L Cathedral Cam engine with a camshaft, spring set, and gasket kit.
It is ideal for improving the performance of Gen 3/4 LS engines ranging from 4.8 to 6.2 liters.
It is ideal for increasing horsepower in LS1, LS2, and LS6 naturally aspirated engines with upgraded springs and pushrods.
This product is ideal for improving the performance of LS1 5.7L V8 engines from 2000-2007.
The product is ideal for upgrading and improving the performance of LS LS1 5.3L and 5.7L engines.
The product is ideal for improving the performance of LS engines with various displacements and Vortec heads.
This product is ideal for improving the performance of Chevrolet Gen III/IV 5.7/6.0 Vortec LS1/LS2 engines.
The product is ideal for improving the performance of LS engines in various vehicles with compatible engine sizes.

1. Ls Stage 2 Cam Kit By Sloppy Mechanics.

Upgrade your Gen 3/4 LS 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 engine with the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft. This camshaft kit includes cam, springs, seals, gaskets, and pushrods for a complete installation. The camshaft has an aggressive profile that delivers a nice Lopey Idle and tons of power at an affordable cost. It is perfect for daily drivers who love a Lopey/Choppy idle and muscle car sound. The Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft is suitable for cars, trucks, SUVs, street rods, and LS Swaps. It is a street warrior that will turn heads wherever it goes. Automatic transmissions will perform best with a 2,600-2,800 Stall Converter. Choose the kit that best suits your needs. The Elgin Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft is available in three variants:

– Camshaft, Springs, and Seals: This variant includes a camshaft with matching PAC springs and valve seals.

– Camshaft, Springs, Seals, and Gaskets: This variant includes the camshaft, matching PAC springs, valve seals, and an installation gasket kit.

– Camshaft, Springs, Seals, Gaskets, and Pushrods: This variant includes everything in the previous kit plus Michigan Motorsports 7.400 5/16" chromoly pushrods.

Pros

  • – Aggressive profile delivers a nice Lopey Idle and tons of power at an affordable cost.
  • – Suitable for daily drivers who love a Lopey/Choppy idle and muscle car sound.
  • – Perfect for cars, trucks, SUVs, street rods, and LS Swaps.
  • – Available in three variants to suit different needs.
  • – Complete kit includes cam, springs, seals, gaskets, and pushrods.

Cons

  • – – Automatic transmissions require a 2,600-2,800 Stall Converter for optimal performance.

2. Btr N/a Cam Kit With Pushrods & Gaskets

The BRIAN TOOLEY BTR Naturally Aspirated Stage 3 Cam – LS1 LS6 LS2 5.7 6.0 is an excellent camshaft for LS1/LS2 applications where a rough idle is desired with more mid-range and top-end power than the stage 2 camshaft. The camshaft includes a Brian Tooley camshaft, BTR Platinum dual springs with steel retainers, and 7.400" chromoly pushrods and cam install gasket kit. The kit also comprises a front timing cover gasket, timing cover damper seal, water pump gaskets, and CHEVROLET PERFORMANCE LS Crankshaft Damper Bolt. With 10 degrees of overlap, the camshaft has a relatively aggressive idle, making great average power and top-end power. The increased exhaust duration pulls extremely well in the upper RPM's without power falling off like other cams might. It comes with a 3 bolt timing gear pattern, and the cam specs are 231/242 .617"/.592" 112+2. A stall converter is required for optimal performance, and the camshaft is not recommended for daily driver applications due to its aggressive nature.

Overall, the BRIAN TOOLEY BTR Naturally Aspirated Stage 3 Cam has a great design that is suitable for LS1/LS2 applications. The camshaft is well-constructed and comes with necessary components, making it easy to install. The increased exhaust duration ensures that there is no power loss in the upper RPM's compared to other camshafts. The camshaft is very aggressive, making it perfect for those looking for a rough idle and more power. The camshaft's 3 bolt timing gear pattern is also an added advantage.

However, it should be noted that the BRIAN TOOLEY BTR Naturally Aspirated Stage 3 Cam is not recommended for daily driver applications due to its aggressive nature. Additionally, a stall converter is required for optimal performance.

Pros

  • Suitable for LS1/LS2 applications
  • Well-constructed and comes with necessary components for easy installation
  • Increased exhaust duration ensures no power loss in the upper RPM's
  • Perfect for those looking for a rough idle and more power
  • 3 bolt timing gear pattern

Cons

  • – Not recommended for daily driver applications due to its aggressive nature
  • – Stall converter required for optimal performance

3. Texas Speed Tsp Bfd Chop Monster Ls1 5.7l Cathedral Cam Ls1 (Camshaft, Spring Set And Gasket Kit)

The Texas Speed TSP BFD Chop Monster LS1 5.3L Cathedral Cam is an excellent upgrade for your naturally aspirated LS engine. This cam is designed to deliver big power throughout the curve while providing the most savage chop possible. It is engineered to fit 5.3, 5.7, 6.0, 6.2, 7.0 LS engines, as well as LS7 and big-inch stroker LS engines. The BFD cam is designed to spec with Chop King – Zac Mertens, ensuring that it is the nastiest sounding cam you can install into your LS engine.

The cam kit includes a .660" dual spring kit with integrated one-piece seat and seal, titanium retainers, PAC springs, 7.400" chromoly pushrods, and crank bolt & gaskets for water pump, timing cover, and front seal. It is recommended to use a 3600+ stall with this cam, and dual .660" valve springs or better are required. The BFD cam is also available for L83 engines.

The BFD cam is a favorite among many LS engine enthusiasts. Zac Mertens himself runs the 'BFD Stroker' in his TSP 434 ci powered C10, which he daily drives in LA traffic. His truck puts down an impressive 545whp/475wtq through a 4l80e, and still manages to get 20mpg on the highway.

Pros

  • Designed to deliver big power throughout the curve
  • Provides the most savage chop possible
  • Engineered to fit a wide range of LS engines
  • Kit includes a variety of components for easy installation

Cons

  • – Requires a 3600+ stall and dual .660" valve springs or better
  • – May not be street legal in some areas due to noise level

4. Truck Norris Cam Kit For Ls Engines

Upgrade your 1999-2013 GM V8 Truck or SUV with the BTR Brian Tooley TRUCK NORRIS Camshaft. This camshaft is designed to deliver superior power and torque throughout the curve, surpassing BTR's legendary V2 truck cams. Developed from hundreds of hours of in-house cam lobe design and dyno testing, the Truck Norris has an idle sound similar to more aggressive truck camshafts, yet it behaves well with stock torque converters. The camshaft features specifications of 212/22X .552"/.552" 107 LSA 3 Bolt Pattern, ensuring reliable performance.

If you're installing the Truck Norris in an engine that was originally equipped with a 1-bolt camshaft, you'll need a 3 bolt conversion kit. BTR offers the option of purchasing the camshaft alone or as a kit that includes high-quality beehive springs, MM hat valve seals, 7.400" long, 5/16" Chromoly Pushrods with .080" wall thickness, and an MM Gasket kit. The MM Gasket kit comprises timing cover gasket, water pump gaskets, front crankshaft seal, and a new damper bolt.

Upgrade your GM truck's performance with the BTR Brian Tooley TRUCK NORRIS Camshaft and enjoy a roundhouse kick in the pants!

Pros

  • Delivers superior power and torque throughout the curve
  • Developed from hundreds of hours of in-house cam lobe design and dyno testing
  • Idle sound similar to more aggressive truck camshafts
  • Behaves well with stock torque converters
  • Available as a kit that includes high-quality components
  • Features specifications of 212/22X .552"/.552" 107 LSA 3 Bolt Pattern

5. Btr N/a Stage 4 Cam Set.

The BTR STAGE 4 (LS1/LS2/LS6) NA CAMSHAFT is an excellent option for those who want to maximize their engine's power. This camshaft comes with a set of 7.400" LS Chromoly Pushrods, BTR Platinum dual springs, Titanium Retainers, Spring Locators, LS Valve Seal Kit (including a set of 8 Black Intake Seals and 8 Brown Exhaust), and LS VALVE LOCKS 7 DEGREE BEAD LOCK SET OF 32 SUPERSEDED TO- 33348123R0. With specs of 233/248 .630"/.615" 111.5+2.5, it is the largest offering in the NA LS1/LS2/LS6 lineup.

While it sacrifices a small amount of performance down low, it makes up for it by delivering maximum peak power. With the proper supporting modifications, it is not uncommon to see 460+whp. A proper set of cylinder heads will make this camshaft come alive! It is recommended to consult your tuner regarding stall speed needs, as an aftermarket stall converter will be required.

Pros

  • Complete package with all the necessary components included
  • Proven to deliver maximum peak power
  • Suitable for those who want to maximize their engine's power

Cons

  • – Sacrifices a small amount of performance down low

6. Engine Camshaft Hydraulic Roller Lift Cam For Ls1 2000-2007 5.7 L V8 Replace E-1841-P Sloppy Stage 3

This engine camshaft is designed to fit Chevy for GM V8 engines manufactured between 1997 to 2007. The camshaft has a 3-bolt cam and is not compatible with Active Fuel Management (AFM). It has a compression ratio of 10.5:1 to 11.0:1 and a 3.90:1 to 4.50:1 axle ratio. The camshaft offers good mid-range torque between 3,000-4,000 RPM and has an operating power range between 2,200-5,400 RPM. The seat pressure is 120# closed and 300# open. However, please note that stock valve springs cannot be used with this camshaft, and custom computer tuning is required. This engine camshaft is not recommended for towing applications.

If you are planning to purchase this product, it is recommended that you carefully review the specifications and compatibility to ensure that it meets your requirements.

Pros

  • Wide operating power range between 2,200-5,400 RPM
  • Good mid-range torque between 3,000-4,000 RPM
  • High seat pressure of 120# closed and 300# open

Cons

  • – Custom computer tuning required
  • – Not compatible with Active Fuel Management (AFM)
  • – Stock valve springs cannot be used

7. Ls7 Stage 2 Upgrade Kit

Get your engine running smoothly with the Cam and Lifter Kit. This kit includes all the necessary components for installation, such as 1 intake seal set, 1 timing cover gasket set, 1 valley cover gasket, 1 oil pan gasket, 2 exhaust manifold gaskets, 1 rear main seal, 1 rear main cover gasket, 2 multilayer steel cylinder head gaskets, 30 cylinder head bolts, 16 LS7 valve lifters, 16 beehive valve springs, and 1 E-1840-P camshaft. The E1840P camshaft kit is specifically designed for 1997-2007 GM Chevy LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L V8 LSx Sloppy Stage 2.

This camshaft kit boasts impressive specs with a range of 2200 to 5400 rpm, an intake valve lift of .585 inches, an exhaust valve lift of .585 inches, an advertised intake duration of 283°, an advertised exhaust duration of 286°, an intake duration at .050 inches of 228°, an exhaust duration at .050 inches of 230°, a lobe separation of 112°, and an intake centerline of 108°. The cam gear attachment is a 3-bolt design, ensuring a secure fit.

The 16 valve springs included in this kit are top-quality, with an outside diameter of outer spring of 1.290 inches, an inside diameter of outer spring of 0.885 inches, a spring coil bind height of 1.140 inches, an install load of 130lbs, an install height of 1.800 inches, an open height of 1.175 inches, an open load of 318 lbs, and a rate of 313 lbs./in.

This Cam and Lifter Kit comes with a 12-month warranty for your peace of mind. If you encounter any problems, simply contact the seller through email, and they will do their best to help you solve the problem.

Pros

  • Complete kit includes all necessary components for installation
  • Designed specifically for 1997-2007 GM Chevy LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L V8 LSx Sloppy Stage 2
  • Impressive specs with a range of 2200 to 5400 rpm, and an intake valve lift and exhaust valve lift of .585 inches
  • Top-quality valve springs included in the kit
  • Comes with a 12-month warranty for your peace of mind

8. Chopacabra Ls Cam Kit – Ultimate Power Upgrade

Enhance your truck's performance with the Chopacabra Truck Cam designed for 1999-2013 GM Gen3/4 LS truck engines with 4.8, 5.3, 6.0, 6.2 liter capacity. This camshaft is ideal for engines equipped with cathedral port heads and has cam specs of 214/222 .550/.550 108 LSA 106 ICL. It operates within an RPM range of 1200-6500 and can add up to 67 horsepower and 26 ft-lbs of torque at the crank.

For VVT engines, a VVT delete kit is required, while engines originally equipped with a 1-bolt camshaft will require a 3-bolt conversion kit. The Chopacabra Truck Cam is factory converter-friendly, ensuring a hassle-free installation.

Make your purchase easier by choosing from our kit options, which include: Camshaft only, Camshaft with Beehive Springs and Valve Stem Seals, Camshaft with Springs, Seals and Hardened Pushrods, and Gasket kit that includes Timing cover gasket, water pump gaskets, front crankshaft seal, and GM damper bolt. Upgrade your truck's performance with Chopacabra Truck Cam!

Pros

  • Ideal for 1999-2013 GM Gen3/4 LS truck engines
  • Operating RPM range of 1200-6500
  • Can add up to 67 horsepower and 26 ft-lbs of torque at the crank
  • Factory converter-friendly for hassle-free installation
  • Kit options available for easier purchase

Cons

  • – VVT engines require a VVT delete kit
  • – Engines originally equipped with a 1-bolt camshaft require a 3-bolt conversion kit

9. Chop Master Kit For Gm Vortec Engines

Upgrade your naturally aspirated LS engine with the TSP B.F.D. "Chop Monster" 6.0L Cathedral Cam. With cam specs of 233/240 .629/.600 108 LSA 106 ICL, this cam is designed to deliver big power and the most savage chop possible throughout the curve. It requires an aftermarket stall converter with 3600+ RPM and an upgraded rear gear with a minimum of 3.42. The operating RPM range for this cam is 2300-7000, and it can provide an estimated power increase of 65+ HP. The cam can be daily driven with good tuning down low and a proper sized torque converter, which makes it suitable for automatics. However, manuals will require more thorough tuning. This cam is mostly recommended for weekend warrior applications with stock cubic inch engines.

Pros

  • Delivers big power throughout the curve
  • Provides the most savage chop possible
  • Can be daily driven with good tuning and proper size torque converter in automatics
  • Suitable for weekend warrior applications with stock cubic inch engines

Cons

  • – Requires an aftermarket stall converter and upgraded rear gear
  • – Manuals require more thorough tuning

10. 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.

Pros

  • 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

Best Ls1 Cam For Street FAQs

Can an LS1 cam be used on a street-driven vehicle without sacrificing reliability?

Yes, an LS1 cam can be used on a street-driven vehicle without sacrificing reliability. However, it is important to note that the camshaft is just one component of the engine and it should be chosen based on the overall goals of the build. If the goal is to improve low-end torque and overall power, then a camshaft upgrade can provide significant gains. However, the camshaft should be matched with the correct valve springs, pushrods, and other components to ensure proper operation and prevent any potential reliability issues. Additionally, it is important to have a proper tune and regular maintenance to ensure the engine is running smoothly and reliably. Overall, with the right components and attention to detail, an LS1 cam can be a great upgrade for a street-driven vehicle without sacrificing reliability.

How does an LS1 cam compare to other performance upgrades for street-driven LS engines, such as intake and exhaust modifications?

The LS1 cam is a popular performance upgrade for LS engines, but how does it compare to other upgrades like intake and exhaust modifications? Well, it ultimately depends on your goals and driving habits.

Intake and exhaust modifications can improve airflow, which can lead to increased horsepower and torque. However, they may not give you the same level of power gains as a cam upgrade. The LS1 cam is designed to increase valve lift and duration, which can result in significant horsepower and torque gains.

That being said, cam upgrades can also affect drivability, especially for street-driven vehicles. The lumpy idle and decreased low-end power can make daily driving less enjoyable. Intake and exhaust modifications, on the other hand, can improve throttle response and overall drivability without sacrificing too much low-end power.

In summary, the LS1 cam can provide significant power gains for LS engines, but it may not be the best choice for daily-driven vehicles. Intake and exhaust modifications can improve drivability without sacrificing too much low-end power. It's essential to consider your goals and driving habits when choosing between these performance upgrades.

What are the best LS1 cam options for street use, and how do they differ from race-oriented cams?

When it comes to selecting the best camshaft for your LS1 engine, it all depends on your intended use. For street use, the best LS1 cam options are ones that provide a balance between performance and drivability. Some popular street-oriented camshaft options include the Texas Speed and Performance 224/224 camshaft, the Comp Cams XER273HR camshaft, and the Brian Tooley Racing Stage 2 camshaft.

These camshafts offer a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque but still maintain a smooth idle and good low-end power. They also work well with stock or mildly modified engines and don't require extensive modifications or tuning.

On the other hand, race-oriented cams are designed for maximum performance and are not ideal for street use. They have more aggressive profiles, larger lift and duration, and require more extensive modifications to the engine and drivetrain. These cams are intended for high-revving engines and produce significant horsepower gains.

Ultimately, the best LS1 cam option for you depends on your driving needs and preferences. If you're primarily using your car for daily driving, then a street-oriented camshaft is the way to go. However, if you're looking to push your LS1 engine to its limits on the track, then a race-oriented camshaft may be the better choice.

What is an LS1 cam, and how does it affect street performance?

An LS1 cam is a high-performance camshaft designed for use in LS1 engines, which are commonly found in late-model GM cars such as the Corvette, Camaro, and Firebird. The LS1 cam is designed to improve engine performance by increasing airflow and improving the engine's ability to breathe. This is accomplished through a combination of increased lift and duration, which allows more air to flow into and out of the engine.

The LS1 cam can have a significant impact on street performance, as it can increase horsepower and torque output by as much as 50-60 horsepower, depending on the specific camshaft used. This increased power can translate into faster acceleration, higher top speeds, and improved overall performance. However, it's important to note that the LS1 cam is designed for use on high-performance engines, and may not be suitable for use on stock or low-power engines. Additionally, installing an LS1 cam can require significant modifications to the engine, including upgrading the valve springs, lifters, and other components, which can increase the cost and complexity of the installation process.

Will installing an LS1 cam require any additional modifications to the engine or drivetrain?

Yes, installing an LS1 cam may require additional modifications to the engine and drivetrain. The LS1 cam is a high-performance upgrade that can significantly increase horsepower and torque, but it may also put additional stress on the engine and drivetrain components. To ensure proper performance and reliability, it is recommended to upgrade other components such as valve springs, pushrods, and lifters. The LS1 cam may also require modifications to the intake, exhaust, and fuel system to optimize performance. Additionally, if the engine has high mileage or wear and tear, it may be necessary to rebuild or replace certain components before installing the cam to prevent damage or failure. Overall, it is important to consult with a professional mechanic or engine builder to determine the necessary modifications for your specific LS1 cam installation.

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