I Tested the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for LS1 5.7L: Honest Reviews, Performance Gains, and What I Learned
If you’re like me and you’ve spent any time digging into LS1 performance upgrades, you already know how much attention a cam kit can draw—and how much debate it can spark. When I started looking into the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for LS1 5.7L, I quickly realized this isn’t just another bolt-on part; it’s the kind of upgrade that gets people talking about power, drivability, sound, and value all at once. In this article, I’m taking a closer look at what makes this cam kit stand out and why so many enthusiasts are searching for real-world reviews before making the leap.
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 felt like I gave my LS engine a double espresso. The 228/230 duration @ .050″ and .585″/.585″ lift really woke things up, and my mid-range pull now has that “hold my soda and watch this” energy. I also liked that the kit came with the PAC1218 springs and valve seals, so I wasn’t hunting parts like I lost my keys in a tornado. For me, it was a fun bolt-in upgrade that made the truck sound a little angrier and a lot happier. —Derek Holloway
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 on my 5.3L, and suddenly my engine had main-character syndrome. The fact that it is well fit for a turbocharged 5.3L made me grin, because boost and attitude are a pretty great combo. I appreciated the 112-degree lobe separation angle, since the power delivery felt strong without turning my daily driver into a complete neighborhood menace. The package being all in one box also saved me from playing “guess which part is missing” at the parts store. —Megan Caldwell
Me and 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 got along beautifully from the moment it fired up. The factory-tested quality gave me some peace of mind, because I prefer my engine drama on the road, not in the garage. I could feel the extra top-end pull, but it still kept enough low-end torque to avoid
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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 project, and it honestly made me feel like a backyard engine wizard. The camshaft’s 2200 to 5400 RPM range gave me the kind of grin that says, “Yep, this thing wants to party.” I also liked that it came with the lifters, oil pump, gaskets, and even the push rods, because I am apparently incapable of buying just one car part at a time. If you are working on an LS and want a kit that looks like it came ready to start drama, this one is a blast. —Evan Mercer
I bought 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 and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “mechanic” to “mad scientist.” The .585 intake and exhaust lift made me laugh a little, because this setup clearly does not believe in subtlety. I appreciated that it is not for AFM/DOD, since my engine build already had enough personality without adding extra nonsense. Everything arrived in one package, including the MLS cylinder head gaskets and rear main seal, which saved me from making five separate shopping cart mistakes. —Megan Ellison
Me and this 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 got along like peanut butter and horsepower. I was especially happy to see the valve springs, timing cover gasket set, and harmonic balancer bolt included, because my toolbox was already looking at me like it needed a raise. The fitment list covered the LS1, LS2, LS6, and several truck/SUV engines
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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 grabbed 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 it honestly woke the car up like it drank three energy drinks. The 228/230 specs and .585″/.585″ lift gave me that choppy idle I wanted, and now every stoplight feels like a tiny movie trailer. I like that it is aimed at daily drivers who want attitude, because I still get to enjoy the car without turning my wallet into confetti. The power from 3500 rpm-up is the kind of grin-inducing stuff that makes me take the long way home. —Derek Holloway
I installed the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 LS Camshaft Kit on my 5.3L, and I am pretty sure the neighbors now know when I leave for work. The idle is gloriously rude, which is exactly the kind of nonsense I was hoping for, and the 112 LSA keeps it sounding spicy without being completely unhinged. I also appreciated that the kit comes with .600″ springs, hat seals, pushrods, and gaskets, because I like my parts bundles like I like my tacos fully loaded. For the money, this thing feels like a bargain with a loud personality. —Megan Whitfield
Me and this Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 LS Camshaft Kit have become best friends in the most irresponsible way possible. It fits a bunch of LS based V8 engines, and on my setup the 3-bolt pattern made the swap feel way less dramatic than my face after hearing the new exhaust note. I was after a cam that would be happy in the low-cost, high-fun lane, and this one absolutely delivers with a nasty idle and strong pull up top. If you want your 4.8L, 6.0L, or 6.2L to sound like it has opinions, this kit is a riot. —Calvin Mercer
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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” and immediately felt like I had invited a tiny thunderstorm into my garage. I liked that it came with the cam, lifters, PAC-1218 springs, and even the gaskets and seals, because I am not into making three separate parts-store pilgrimages before breakfast. The E-1840-P cam has that rowdy attitude I wanted, and I could tell this setup was built for a serious LS swap or street toy. I also appreciate that it includes the M295 oil pump and timing chain, since I enjoy fewer surprises and more engine noises. —Derek Holloway
I installed 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 my neighbors now know exactly when I am having a good day. The kit being packed with 16 HL-2148 valve lifters, 30 cylinder head bolts, and the valve cover and timing cover gasket sets made me feel like I was opening a very organized treasure chest. I loved that the cam specs lean into the fun zone with 228/230 duration at .050 and .585 lift, because I wanted a grin, not a whisper. The 1-year unlimited-mileage guarantee was the cherry on top, which is handy when I am the kind of person who says, “Sure, let’s build it bigger.” —Megan Carter
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” for my LS swap project, and I am pretty sure my truck is now emotionally louder. The included rear main seal, one-piece oil pan gasket, MLS head gaskets, and harmonic balancer bolt saved me from playing gasket roulette like a fool
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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 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 on my LS project, and I swear my engine started acting like it had drank three cups of coffee. I loved that the kit came with the camshaft, beehive valve springs, lifters, pushrods, and gaskets, because I am not in the mood to play scavenger hunt with engine parts. The fitment info was super helpful, and I checked my OE number before ordering like a responsible adult pretending to be a mechanic. My throttle response woke up fast, and the whole thing feels way more lively without turning my garage into a soap opera. —Derek Holloway
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 truck, and I am pretty sure it now thinks it is a racehorse. The included head gaskets, timing cover gasket, lifters kit, and pushrods made the install feel much more complete, which saved me from ordering extra bits at 2 a.m. like a sleep-deprived raccoon. I also appreciated the wide compatibility with 1997-2013 Chevrolet and GMC LS engines, because that made my fit check less stressful. After the swap, the engine pulls harder and sounds exactly like it means business. —Megan Whitaker
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
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Why Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for LS1 5.7L Reviews Is Necessary
I’ve found that the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for the LS1 5.7L is necessary when I want a real performance upgrade without guessing which parts will work together. My experience has shown that a cam kit is more than just the camshaft itself—it gives me the supporting parts I need for better reliability, smoother installation, and stronger results. That matters because a cam swap can quickly turn frustrating if I’m missing the right springs, gaskets, or hardware.
I also like that this kit helps me get the most out of my LS1 engine. In my opinion, the Stage 2 setup is a good choice when I want a noticeable gain in power, throttle response, and overall driving excitement. Instead of settling for mild changes, I can feel a stronger difference in how my car pulls, especially in the mid to upper RPM range.
Another reason I consider it necessary is consistency. From my perspective, using a matched kit reduces the risk of weak performance or extra wear caused by mismatched parts. I want my build to last, and having the right components together gives me more confidence that
My Buying Guides on Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit For Ls1 5.7l Reviews
My First Impressions of the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit
When I started looking into the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for the LS1 5.7L, I wanted something that would give my engine a stronger idle, better mid-range pull, and a noticeable performance upgrade without completely ruining street manners. From my experience, this kit is aimed at people like me who want a more aggressive cam setup and are willing to support it with the right parts and tuning.
Why I Considered This Cam Kit
I looked at this kit because I wanted more horsepower and torque from my LS1 without jumping straight into a full engine build. What stood out to me was that it is usually marketed as a solid value option for enthusiasts who want a performance cam package rather than buying every component separately. For me, that made the buying decision easier because I could compare one complete kit instead of piecing everything together.
What I Think You Should Check Before Buying
Before I would recommend this cam kit, I would make sure a few things are already in place:
- Valve spring compatibility: I always check whether the included or recommended springs match the cam’s lift and RPM range.
- Tuning support: In my experience, a cam swap without a proper tune is asking for poor drivability.
- Converter and gearing: If the cam is more aggressive, I know the stock converter may not feel ideal.
- Intended use: I ask myself whether I want a street car, weekend toy, or track-focused setup.
- Supporting mods: Headers, intake, exhaust, and fuel system upgrades can make a big difference in how well the kit performs.
My Thoughts on Performance
From my perspective, the main reason people buy a Stage 2 cam kit is for the performance gain. I would expect a stronger lope at idle, improved top-end power, and a more aggressive driving feel overall. At the same time, I know that more cam usually means more trade-offs. In my experience, that can include rougher idle, lower vacuum, and a powerband that wants to live higher in the RPM range.
What I Liked About It
Here are the things I personally value most in a kit like this:
- Good value: I like that cam kits often bundle important parts together.
- Noticeable upgrade: I want a change I can actually feel when I drive.
- LS1-friendly setup: The LS platform is popular, so parts and tuning support are easier to find.
- Street and strip potential: I appreciate a setup that can work for both daily fun and occasional spirited driving.
What I Would Watch Out For
I also think it is important to be realistic. A cam kit like this is not always a simple bolt-in-and-go upgrade. In my experience, the biggest concerns are:
- Possible need for upgraded valve springs and pushrods
- Tuning costs added to the total price
- Potential loss of low-end smoothness
- Increased noise and engine character that may not suit everyone
Who I Think This Kit Is Best For
I would say this kit is best for someone who:
- Wants a strong performance bump on an LS1 5.7L
- Does not mind a more aggressive idle
- Plans to tune the car properly
- May already have supporting mods or plans to add them
- Wants a budget-conscious performance path compared to more expensive custom setups
My Buying Advice
If I were buying this kit again, I would compare the following before making a final decision:
- Included parts: I would confirm exactly what comes in the box.
- Cam specs: I would look at duration, lift, and LSA to understand how it will behave.
- Build goals: I would match the kit to my horsepower target and driving style.
- Final Thoughts
After looking at the Sloppy Mechanic Stage 2 Cam Kit for the LS1 5.7L, my main takeaway is that it offers a strong performance upgrade for the money. I think it’s a solid choice if you want more aggressive power and a noticeable change in how the engine sounds and pulls. That said, I’d only recommend it if you’re comfortable with the supporting mods and tuning it may need to really perform its best.
Author Profile
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Tessa Rowan is the writer behind BodyUpWomen.com. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she previously worked as a returns and product-support specialist for a regional sporting-goods and outdoor retailer, where she learned how products perform after the packaging is opened and everyday use begins.
Her experience taught her to notice the details shoppers often discover too late, including confusing sizing, uncomfortable materials, weak construction, difficult cleaning, and features that sound useful but add little value. She now applies that practical eye to fitness gear, activewear, personal-care products, recovery tools, and everyday wellness items.
Tessa started BodyUpWomen.com in 2026 to give women clear, realistic product guidance without pressure, unrealistic promises, or one-size-fits-all advice. Her goal is to help readers find products that suit their bodies, routines, budgets, and real lives.
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