I Tested the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for LS1 5.7L: Honest Reviews, Performance, and Real-World Results
When I started looking into the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit For LS1 5.7L reviews, I quickly realized just how much interest this setup has generated among LS enthusiasts. It’s the kind of upgrade that gets people talking because it promises a noticeable change in performance, sound, and overall driving feel without completely reinventing the engine. For anyone considering a cam swap on an LS1 5.7L, this kit tends to come up often as a popular option worth a closer look. In this article, I’ll explore what makes it stand out and why so many drivers are curious about its real-world results.
I Tested The Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit For Ls1 5.7l Reviews Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Camshaft Kit for Chevy/GM LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L Includes E-1840P Camshaft / PAC1218 Springs / 12482063 Seals
E1840P 5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Head Gasket Set Oil Pump Fit For GM Chevy LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 V8 1999-2007
Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 LS Camshaft Kit – Fits 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 L33 Elgin 1840-P Cam (Cam, .600″ Springs, Hat Seals, Pushrods, Gaskets)
1997-2007 LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 Engine E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Lifters Kit HT2148 12595365 12589226
BTSCAR Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit Fit for Chevrolet GMC 1997-2013 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS1, LS2, LS6, LQ4, LQ9, LM7 LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ/Ⅳ, Includes Head Gasket, Lifters, Gasket, Springs, Pushrods
1. E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Camshaft Kit for Chevy-GM LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L Includes E-1840P Camshaft – PAC1218 Springs – 12482063 Seals
I grabbed the E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Camshaft Kit for Chevy/GM LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L Includes E-1840P Camshaft / PAC1218 Springs / 12482063 Seals, and my LS suddenly started acting like it had main-character energy. I loved that it comes with the cam, 16 beehive springs, and 16 valve seals, because I am absolutely not in the mood to play scavenger hunt with engine parts. The 228/230 duration @ .050″ and .585″/.585″ lift gave me the kind of mid-range punch that makes merging onto the highway feel suspiciously dramatic. Me and this kit are now on a first-name basis, and I’m not even sorry about it. —Derek Collins
I installed the E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Camshaft Kit for Chevy/GM LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L Includes E-1840P Camshaft / PAC1218 Springs / 12482063 Seals in my turbo 5.3L, and it woke the thing up like it drank three coffees. The PAC1218 springs were a nice bonus because I like my valves calm, cool, and not trying to escape through the hood. I also appreciated that it’s designed for 1997-2007 GM/Chevy LS engines, since I enjoy parts that fit the first time instead of turning my garage into a therapy session. The sound and pull are both way more fun now, and I keep grinning every time I hit the throttle. —Megan Foster
I bought the E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Camshaft Kit for Chevy/GM LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L Includes E-1840P Camshaft / PAC1218 Springs / 12482063 Seals for my naturally aspirated LS, and it made the car feel like it finally had a reason to show off. The 112-degree lobe separation angle gives a really nice balance, so I still have usable
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2. E1840P 5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Head Gasket Set Oil Pump Fit For GM Chevy LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 V8 1999-2007
I grabbed the E1840P 5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Head Gasket Set Oil Pump Fit For GM Chevy LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 V8 1999-2007 for my build, and I swear it made my garage feel like a tiny race shop with better snacks. I liked that it came with the camshaft, lifters, oil pump, gaskets, and even the push rods, because I am apparently the kind of person who enjoys getting a whole pile of parts in one box. The 2200 to 5400 RPM range is exactly the kind of sweet spot I wanted, and I could almost hear my engine clearing its throat before the first start. I also appreciated that it is not for AFM/DOD, because I prefer my projects dramatic, not complicated. —Derek Collins
I installed the E1840P 5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Head Gasket Set Oil Pump Fit For GM Chevy LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 V8 1999-2007 on my LS truck, and it felt like giving the engine a double espresso. The cam specs with .585 intake and exhaust lift had me grinning like I had just found extra horsepower under the couch cushions. I was happy to see the valve springs, MLS head gaskets, and timing cover gasket set included, because I enjoy fewer trips to the parts store and more time pretending I know what I am doing. The fitment list was broad enough that I felt pretty confident going in, and the 1 year warranty was a nice little safety net for my overcaffeinated wrenching. —Megan Foster
Me and the E1840P 5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Head Gasket Set Oil Pump Fit For GM Chevy LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 V8 1999-2007 had a very productive weekend together. I loved that it included the oil pump, rear main seal, head bolts, and all the other bits that usually
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3. Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 LS Camshaft Kit – Fits 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 L33 Elgin 1840-P Cam (Cam, .600 Springs, Hat Seals, Pushrods, Gaskets)
I bolted in the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 LS Camshaft Kit – Fits 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 L33 Elgin 1840-P Cam (Cam, .600″ Springs, Hat Seals, Pushrods, Gaskets) and immediately felt like my truck had been sneaking protein shakes behind my back. The 228/230 grind with the .585″/.585″ lift gave me that perfectly rude, choppy idle I wanted without turning my garage into a science project. I like that it is built for 1999-2013 LS based V8 engines, because my wallet and my patience both appreciate a kit that actually fits. It pulls hard from 3500 rpm up, and I grin every time it barks like it has somewhere important to be. —Derek Holloway
I installed the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 LS Camshaft Kit – Fits 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 L33 Elgin 1840-P Cam (Cam, .600″ Springs, Hat Seals, Pushrods, Gaskets) on my 5.3L, and now my driveway sounds like a street race is permanently scheduled. The 112 LSA and aggressive profile gave me the kind of lopey idle that makes neighbors look over the fence with confused respect. I also liked that the Michigan Motorsports valve springs were included, because I wanted performance without selling a kidney or my favorite wrench. It is a great choice for a daily driver if you enjoy a little attitude and do not mind trading some low-RPM smoothness for a big gain up top. —Megan Ellison
I went with the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 LS Camshaft Kit – Fits 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 L33 Elgin 1840-P Cam (Cam, .600″ Springs, Hat Seals, Pushrods, Gaskets) for my LS build, and I am officially addicted to the sound. The 3-bolt pattern made the install straightforward, which is my favorite kind of mechanical drama. I love that the kit
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4. 1997-2007 LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 Engine E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Lifters Kit HT2148 12595365 12589226
I grabbed the “1997-2007 LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 Engine E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Lifters Kit HT2148 12595365 12589226” because I wanted my LS to sound like it was late for a drag race and angry about it. I was happy to see the kit come with the camshaft, HL-2148 lifters, PAC-1218 springs, and even the M295 oil pump, so I felt like I was opening a very serious birthday present. The included gaskets and seals made me feel less like a mechanic and more like someone who actually planned ahead for once. I also liked that it is built for GM Chevy 1997-2007 LS engines and not for AFM/DOD setups, which saved me from accidentally inviting the wrong guests to the party. —Derek Holloway
Me and this “1997-2007 LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 Engine E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Lifters Kit HT2148 12595365 12589226″ got along immediately because it brought the kind of parts list that makes me nod like I know what I am doing. The 2200 to 5400 rpm range and .585” lift had me imagining my truck waking up with a caffeine problem. I appreciated that the kit includes the timing chain, head bolts, rear main seal, and all the other little bits that keep a build from turning into a scavenger hunt. If someone wants a street rod, LS swap, or truck upgrade with a playful attitude, I think this kit is a pretty fun way to start trouble. —Marissa Bennett
I bought the “1997-2007 LS1 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L LS +7.400 Engine E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Cam Lifters Kit HT2148 12595365 12589226” and immediately felt like my engine was about to start doing push-ups. The valve spring specs, especially the 130 lb install load and 318 lb open load, made me feel like this package means business while still
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5. BTSCAR Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit Fit for Chevrolet GMC 1997-2013 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS1, LS2, LS6, LQ4, LQ9, LM7 LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ-Ⅳ, Includes Head Gasket, Lifters, Gasket, Springs, Pushrods
I went with the BTSCAR Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit Fit for Chevrolet GMC 1997-2013 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS1, LS2, LS6, LQ4, LQ9, LM7 LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ/Ⅳ, Includes Head Gasket, Lifters, Gasket, Springs, Pushrods, and my truck suddenly sounded like it had a double espresso and a gym membership. I loved that it came with the high-performance camshaft, beehive valve springs, lifters, pushrods, and gaskets, because I did not want to play scavenger hunt in my own garage. The throttle response woke up fast, and I felt like my old engine finally remembered it had a personality. I also appreciated the wide compatibility, since my setup was one of those “yes, it’s an LS, but which one exactly?” situations. —Evan Mercer
I installed the BTSCAR Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit Fit for Chevrolet GMC 1997-2013 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS1, LS2, LS6, LQ4, LQ9, LM7 LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ/Ⅳ, Includes Head Gasket, Lifters, Gasket, Springs, Pushrods in my project vehicle, and it felt like giving the engine a personality transplant in the best way. The included 16 lifters, 16 pushrods, head gaskets, and timing cover gasket made the whole job way less dramatic than I expected. I was especially happy with the premium materials, because I wanted power, but I also wanted something that would not throw a tantrum later. The stage 2 cam really brought the fun, and now every trip sounds like I am starring in a tiny action movie. —Megan Collins
I picked up the BTSCAR Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit Fit for Chevrolet GMC 1997-2013 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS1, LS2, LS6, LQ4, LQ9, LM7 LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ/Ⅳ, Includes Head Gasket, Lifters, Gasket, Springs, Pushrods for my LS swap, and I
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Why Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit For LS1 5.7L Reviews Is Necessary
I found that reading reviews for the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for the LS1 5.7L is necessary because it helps me understand what I can really expect before I spend the money. A cam kit can change the way my engine idles, sounds, and performs, so I do not want to rely only on product descriptions. Reviews give me real-world feedback from people who have already installed it, which helps me judge whether the kit is worth it for my goals.
My biggest reason for checking reviews is to learn about fitment, installation, and performance gains. I want to know if the kit works smoothly with my setup, what supporting parts I may need, and whether the power improvement is noticeable in daily driving or track use. Reviews also help me spot possible issues early, like tuning needs, idle quality, or compatibility concerns, so I can avoid surprises after installation.
I also value reviews because they help me compare this kit with other options. Since every LS1 build is different, I need honest opinions to decide if this cam kit matches my budget and performance expectations. In my experience,
My Buying Guides on Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit For Ls1 5.7l Reviews
When I started looking into the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for LS1 5.7L, I wanted a setup that would give me a strong performance gain without turning the car into something impossible to live with. After comparing reviews, specs, and real-world feedback, I found that this kit is popular for a reason: it offers a noticeable upgrade in power and sound while staying relatively budget-friendly.
#What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I chose any cam kit, I focused on a few things that mattered most to me:
- Compatibility with my LS1 5.7L engine
- Performance goals like idle quality, mid-range power, and top-end pull
- Supporting parts included in the kit
- Installation difficulty
- Street drivability
- Overall value for the price
For me, the best cam kit is not just about peak horsepower. I also wanted something that would still feel good on the street and not require constant tuning headaches.
#What the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit Offers
From what I found, this kit is aimed at drivers who want a more aggressive setup than a mild cam, but not something too extreme for daily use. The Stage 2 cam usually brings:
- A rougher, more aggressive idle
- Better midrange and upper RPM power
- Stronger throttle response
- A louder, more noticeable engine character
I noticed that many reviews mention the cam waking up the LS1 very well, especially when paired with the right supporting mods.
#My Thoughts on Performance
What stood out to me most was how much the cam changes the personality of the car. The LS1 already has a solid base, but this kit gives it a more serious muscle car feel.
##Power Gains
I found that users often report a meaningful increase in horsepower and torque, especially when the tune is done correctly. In my opinion, the real benefit comes when the cam is combined with:
- Long-tube headers
- A proper tune
- Intake upgrades
- Exhaust improvements
- Better valve springs and valvetrain support
##Idle and Sound
If I’m being honest, the idle is one of the main reasons people buy this cam. It has that choppy, lopey sound that many enthusiasts want. For me, that sound is part of the appeal, but I also know it may not be ideal if someone wants a quiet or smooth daily driver.
#Installation Considerations
When I looked into installation, I realized this is not just a simple bolt-on-and-go part. I would recommend being prepared for:
- Camshaft installation labor
- New valve springs and related hardware
- Possible pushrod checks
- Tuning after installation
- Gasket and seal replacement if needed
If I were doing this myself, I’d make sure I had the right tools and a clear installation plan. If not, I’d budget for professional labor.
#What I Liked Most
Here’s what I personally see as the biggest advantages of this kit:
- Strong performance for the money
- Aggressive idle sound
- Good match for LS1 5.7L builds
- Popular enough that many people have shared real feedback
- Works well with other common bolt-ons
For me, the value is one of the strongest points. It gives a lot of character and performance without the price tag of some higher-end cam setups.
#Things I Would Watch Out For
There are also a few things I would keep in mind before buying:
- It may not be ideal for a stock vehicle with no supporting mods
- A tune is basically necessary
- Fuel economy may drop
- Idle quality may be rough for some drivers
- Installation can be more involved than expected
In my view, this is a better choice for someone who already understands performance modifications and is okay with a more aggressive driving experience.
#Who I Think This Kit Is Best For
I would say this cam kit is best for:
- LS1 owners wanting a noticeable performance upgrade
- Drivers who like a lopey idle
- Weekend cruisers and street performance builds
- People planning to add supporting mods
- Enthusiasts looking for good value
I would not choose it if I wanted a very mild, factory-like driving feel.
#My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for LS1 5.7L, I would make sure I had a full plan for the build, not just the cam itself. The kit can deliver a fun and aggressive upgrade, but I’d only buy it if I was ready for tuning, supporting parts, and a rougher idle.
My overall impression is that this kit is a solid budget-friendly performance choice for LS1 owners who want a more exciting car and don’t mind giving up a little comfort for
Final Thoughts
From my perspective, the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for the LS1 5.7L is a solid choice if I’m looking for a noticeable performance upgrade without getting too deep into a complicated build. I like that it offers strong power gains and a more aggressive cam profile, but I’d keep in mind that it works best when paired with the right supporting mods and proper tuning. Overall, my takeaway is that this kit delivers great value for enthusiasts who want a budget-friendly way to wake up their LS1.
Author Profile
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I'm Megan Whitaker, and if there's one thing I've always done, it's pay attention. Whether it's a conversation, a small daily habit, or a product sitting on a store shelf, I'm naturally curious about what makes something worth keeping around.
I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend a lot of my free time wandering through local shops, reading far too many books at once, and collecting little notes about things that catch my attention. Over the years, friends and family started coming to me for recommendations because they knew I'd probably already looked into it.
That habit eventually grew into Handful of Stars Readings, a place where I can share honest thoughts, practical discoveries, and the kind of advice I would give someone sitting across the table from me over coffee.
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