Choosing the right camshaft for your LS engine can be overwhelming due to the vast number of options available. At VCM Performance, we offer a range of high-performance camshafts specifically designed for various setups, including naturally aspirated (NA) and boosted engines.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about camshaft selection to help you make an informed decision for your build.
Explore our full range of Camshafts and Camshaft Kits to find the right solution for your vehicle.
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What Does a Camshaft Do?
The camshaft is one of the most important components in an engine, responsible for controlling the timing and lift of the engine’s valves. By opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves at precise intervals, a camshaft influences how much air and fuel enter the combustion chamber and how much exhaust is expelled. In essence, the camshaft directly impacts the engine's performance, including its horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency.
The Different Types of Camshafts for LS Engines
Let’s break down the camshafts we offer at VCM Performance, based on your specific needs—whether you’re after street-friendly drivability, mid-range performance, or max power for the track. Browse our complete collection of Camshaft Kits to find the perfect fit.
Street Camshafts
Street camshafts are designed for daily drivers and vehicles with standard torque converters in automatic transmissions. These cams offer a balance between power and drivability, making them ideal for street use.
VCM 532
- Specs: 225/223, 112 LSA, . 583”/.583” lift
- Use: Perfect for stock stall converters in both boosted and naturally aspirated setups. This cam is ideal for everyday driving while offering noticeable performance gains. Check out the VCM Performance Camshaft for more information.
VCM 5SC
- Specs: 224/232, 114.5 LSA, . 580”/.590” lift
- Use: Designed for boosted applications but also works well in naturally aspirated engines. If you're running boost, this cam provides excellent results without needing a high-stall converter.
VCM 480
- Specs: 224/228, 110 LSA, . 580”/.600” lift
- Use: Great for both Cathedral and Rectangle port heads. It offers a choppy idle and performs best with a 2800 RPM stall converter. If you're after that aggressive cam sound without sacrificing drivability, this is a great choice.
Mid-Range Camshafts
Mid-range camshafts provide more aggressive power gains and are suited to high-stall converters and manual transmissions.
VCM 11
- Specs: 225/232, 112.5 LSA, .579”/.590” lift
- Use: This camshaft shines in manual transmissions or automatics with a 3,000 RPM stall converter. It can be used in boosted setups but performs best in NA builds for street use.
VCM 3
- Specs: 228/232, 112 LSA, .597”/.597” lift
- Use: This cam offers a little more chop and power compared to the VCM 11, making it ideal for naturally aspirated LS1, LS2, and LS3 engines. It requires at least a 3200 RPM stall converter.
VCM 883
- Specs: 228/238, 113 LSA, .600”/.603” lift
- Use: A versatile cam for both boosted and naturally aspirated setups. This cam is well-suited for Rectangle port heads and requires a 3,000 RPM stall converter for optimal performance.
Upper Mid-Range Camshafts
These cams offer a significant bump in performance, making them ideal for high-performance setups. All of these cams work well in vehicles with higher stall converters or manual transmissions, and are designed for both naturally aspirated (NA) and forced induction applications.
VCM 714
- Specs: 232/234, 114 LSA, .603”/.600” lift
- Use: The VCM 714 is perfect for those running Boost applications, though it also performs well in naturally aspirated setups. It's designed with Cathedral Port heads in mind and works with a 2800+ RPM stall converter for automatics. This camshaft provides a solid balance between drivability and performance, with a noticeable chop at idle.
VCM 713
- Specs: 233/238, 112 LSA, .598”/.506” lift
- Use: A more aggressive cam suited for Rectangle Port heads, the VCM 713 works best in naturally aspirated engines. It requires a 3000+ RPM stall converter for automatics or aggressive diff gears for manual transmissions. This cam delivers substantial gains in the mid-to-high RPM range, making it ideal for track or performance street use.
VCM 710
- Specs: 232/234, 110 LSA, .590”/.596” lift
- Use: Known for its aggressive idle and chop, the VCM 710 is designed for Cathedral Port heads. It's perfect for enthusiasts looking for that iconic cam sound while maintaining solid performance throughout the RPM range. Recommended for those with a 3500+ RPM stall converter in automatics or 3.9+ gears for manuals. This cam is often chosen by those seeking maximum street presence and performance.
High-Performance Camshafts for Maximum Power
For those looking for maximum performance, our high-performance camshafts are designed to deliver extreme power, aggressive idle, and top-end gains.
VCM 16
- Specs: 233/238, 114 LSA, .598”/.602” lift
- Use: The VCM 16 is designed for both naturally aspirated and boosted applications. Its smooth performance makes it ideal for manual transmissions or automatics with a high-stall converter. This camshaft strikes a great balance between power and drivability, making it versatile for both street and track use.
VCM 122
- Specs: 231/242, 112 LSA, .610”/.605” lift
- Use: A favourite for those looking for maximum power and sound. It’s best suited for automatic cars with a 3800 RPM stall converter and offers extreme chop and horsepower gains.
VCM 825
- Specs: 228/242, 115 LSA, .608”/.605” lift
- Use: Originally designed for boosted applications but works equally well in NA setups. It can handle a stock torque converter but benefits from a 2800 RPM stall.
VCM 13
- Specs: 238/242, 112 LSA, .603”/.603” lift
- Use: Our largest camshaft, designed for NA applications. This camshaft is ideal for achieving the maximum power out of your naturally aspirated LS engine and requires a 4,000 RPM stall converter for automatics.
How to Choose the Right Camshaft for Your LS Engine
Choosing the right camshaft depends on several factors, including your vehicle's intended use, transmission type, and whether your engine is naturally aspirated or boosted. Below are some common questions to help guide your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Camshafts
What is the Best High-Performance Camshaft for My Vehicle?
The best camshaft depends on your goals. For street use, we recommend cams like the VCM 532 or VCM 5SC. If you're looking for aggressive power and track performance, go for higher lift cams like the VCM 122 or VCM 13.
Do Camshafts Increase Horsepower?
Yes, camshafts can significantly increase horsepower by improving airflow into and out of the engine. By optimising valve timing, lift, and duration, a performance camshaft allows for more air and fuel to enter the combustion chamber, resulting in more power.
How Do I Choose a High-Performance Camshaft?
Choosing the right camshaft depends on factors such as engine displacement, compression ratio, and whether you want a cam for street use or racing. Always consult with a camshaft expert or engine builder before making a final decision. If you need help, you can contact us or call us at (03) 9763 7599 for personalised advice.
Does a Bigger Cam Need More Timing?
Yes, larger camshafts often require adjustments to ignition timing to optimise performance. Bigger cams increase valve overlap, which can affect cylinder pressure and timing requirements.
What is the RPM Range of a Street Cam?
Street cams typically operate within a low to mid-RPM range, between 1,500 and 6,000 RPM. This provides a good balance of drivability and performance, making it ideal for daily use.
How to Choose a Street Camshaft?
For street use, it’s best to choose a camshaft with a lower lift and shorter duration to maintain drivability. Cams like the VCM 532 offer a balance between performance and smooth idle, making them ideal for daily driving.
Maximise Your LS Engine's Performance
At VCM Performance, we offer a wide range of camshafts for every application—from street-ready cams to high-performance racing cams. Whether you're looking for more torque, horsepower, or that signature camshaft chop, we have the perfect camshaft for your build.
If you’re still unsure which camshaft is right for you, get in touch with us or call (03) 9763 7599 for expert advice on selecting the best cam for your LS engine.