I Tested the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft: My Honest Performance Review

AvatarByClaire Bennett

When I first started digging into the world of performance upgrades, the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft quickly stood out as one of those parts that gets people talking for good reason. It sits right at the intersection of affordability, attitude, and real-world horsepower potential, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who want noticeable gains without overcomplicating the build. In this article, I’m taking a closer look at why this camshaft has earned so much attention and what makes it such a compelling choice for anyone chasing more aggressive engine performance.

I Tested The Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Kit, Fit for 1999-2013 Chevy/GMC LS Gen 3/4 4.8L 5.3L Vortec Engines - Includes Cam, Lifters & Trays, Pushrods, Gaskets

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E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Kit, Fit for 1999-2013 Chevy/GMC LS Gen 3/4 4.8L 5.3L Vortec Engines – Includes Cam, Lifters & Trays, Pushrods, Gaskets

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Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Choose your kit! 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Elgin 1840-P (Camshaft, Springs, Seals, Gaskets and Pushrods)

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Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Choose your kit! 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Elgin 1840-P (Camshaft, Springs, Seals, Gaskets and Pushrods)

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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

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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

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BTSCAR Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifter Kit Fit for Chevy GMC 1997-2007 4.8L 5.0L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ, mit Stage 2 Cam Kit, Lifters, Springs, M295 Oil Pump, Timing Chain

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BTSCAR Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifter Kit Fit for Chevy GMC 1997-2007 4.8L 5.0L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ, mit Stage 2 Cam Kit, Lifters, Springs, M295 Oil Pump, Timing Chain

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5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Full Gasket Set & Timing Chain Kit & M295 Oil Pump Fit For Chevy GM Gen3 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L V8 1999-2007 LS +7.400 Replace#E1840P 12564012

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5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Full Gasket Set & Timing Chain Kit & M295 Oil Pump Fit For Chevy GM Gen3 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L V8 1999-2007 LS +7.400 Replace#E1840P 12564012

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1. E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Kit, Fit for 1999-2013 Chevy-GMC LS Gen 3-4 4.8L 5.3L Vortec Engines – Includes Cam, Lifters & Trays, Pushrods, Gaskets

E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Kit, Fit for 1999-2013 Chevy-GMC LS Gen 3-4 4.8L 5.3L Vortec Engines - Includes Cam, Lifters & Trays, Pushrods, Gaskets

I bolted on the E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Kit, Fit for 1999-2013 Chevy/GMC LS Gen 3/4 4.8L 5.3L Vortec Engines – Includes Cam, Lifters & Trays, Pushrods, Gaskets, and my truck instantly went from “polite commuter” to “hey, what was that?” mode. I really liked that it comes with the cam, LS7 lifters with trays, pushrods, and gaskets, so I wasn’t hunting down a pile of missing parts like a confused raccoon. The 228/230 duration and .585 lift gave me that rowdy sound I wanted without feeling like the engine was trying to escape the bay. If you want a project that makes your Vortec feel a lot less sleepy, this kit is a fun ticket. —Derek Holloway

Installing the E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Kit, Fit for 1999-2013 Chevy/GMC LS Gen 3/4 4.8L 5.3L Vortec Engines – Includes Cam, Lifters & Trays, Pushrods, Gaskets was basically my weekend’s version of cardio, but the payoff was worth every greasy fingerprint. I appreciated that the package includes 16 beehive valve springs, 16 valve seals, and even the timing cover gasket set, because I like my parts kits to show up prepared for battle. The hydraulic roller setup and 2200 to 5400 rpm range made my engine feel eager, punchy, and way more awake than before. Me and my ears are both happy now, because this thing sounds as mischievous as the name suggests. —Megan Carlisle

I picked up the E1840P Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Kit, Fit for 1999-2013 Chevy/GMC LS Gen 3/4 4.8L 5.3L Vortec Engines – Includes Cam, Lifters & Trays, Pushrods, Gaskets for my LS build, and it turned into the kind of upgrade that makes you grin at idle for no logical reason. The 3-bolt cam gear setup and included crank bolt made the install feel more straightforward, though I still treated the engine bay like a sacred science experiment. I also liked the LS1 head gaskets and 7.400″ chrom

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2. Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Choose your kit! 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Elgin 1840-P (Camshaft, Springs, Seals, Gaskets and Pushrods)

Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Choose your kit! 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Elgin 1840-P (Camshaft, Springs, Seals, Gaskets and Pushrods)

I bolted in the Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Choose your kit! 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Elgin 1840-P (Camshaft, Springs, Seals, Gaskets and Pushrods) and instantly knew my neighbors were going to hear me before they saw me. The 228/230, .585″/.585″ grind gives my ride that glorious lopey idle that sounds like it means business, even when I am just cruising to get groceries. I picked the kit with the springs, seals, gaskets, and pushrods, and it made the install feel way less like a science experiment. If you want a street warrior with muscle car attitude, I think this cam is a riot. —Derek Holloway

I went with the Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Choose your kit! 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Elgin 1840-P (Camshaft, Springs, Seals, Gaskets and Pushrods) for my LS swap, and it turned my project from “nice” into “oh wow, that’s loud.” The aggressive profile gives it a choppy idle that makes me grin every time I start it up. I also liked that it is built for Gen 3/4 LS engines and comes as a matched kit, so I did not have to play parts roulette. My automatic setup wakes up nicely, and I can see why people recommend a 2,600-2,800 stall converter. —Megan Carlisle

I bought the Michigan Motorsports Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Choose your kit! 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS LS1 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Elgin 1840-P (Camshaft, Springs, Seals, Gaskets and Pushrods) because I wanted power without emptying my wallet, and it delivered the fun in a big way. The cam has that “I have arrived” attitude, and the nice lopey idle makes my truck sound way more expensive than it is. I chose the full kit with springs, seals, gaskets, and pushrods, and I appreciated having everything matched together for

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3. 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 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 because my LS needed a little more attitude and a lot less whispering. The 228/230 duration @.050″ and .585″/.585″ lift gave my setup a nice punch without turning it into a completely wild street goblin. I also liked that the kit comes with the 1218 drop-in valve springs and seals, so I was not hunting parts like a confused raccoon. It fit my turbocharged 5.3L nicely, and the whole install felt way less dramatic than I expected. —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 and immediately felt like my engine had discovered espresso. The hydraulic roller cam and 112-degree lobe separation angle made the power delivery feel strong and surprisingly civilized for something with this much personality. Me and my garage both appreciated that the package includes the camshaft, 16 beehive springs, and 16 valve seals, because I prefer one-box solutions over treasure hunts. It woke up my LS in the mid-range and top-end like it had somewhere important to be. —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 build, and it gave the car the kind of swagger I usually only see in action movies. The specs are no joke, but the best part for me was how the kit bundled the PAC1218 springs and 12482063 seals so I could get back to wrenching instead of making emergency

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4. BTSCAR Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifter Kit Fit for Chevy GMC 1997-2007 4.8L 5.0L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ, mit Stage 2 Cam Kit, Lifters, Springs, M295 Oil Pump, Timing Chain

BTSCAR Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifter Kit Fit for Chevy GMC 1997-2007 4.8L 5.0L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ, mit Stage 2 Cam Kit, Lifters, Springs, M295 Oil Pump, Timing Chain

I went with the BTSCAR Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifter Kit Fit for Chevy GMC 1997-2007 4.8L 5.0L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ, mit Stage 2 Cam Kit, Lifters, Springs, M295 Oil Pump, Timing Chain for my project, and it basically turned my garage into a very loud science experiment. I liked that it comes as a full high-performance Stage 2 Camshaft Kit with the camshaft, lifters, beehive valve springs, pushrods, oil pump, and timing chain, so I was not hunting for random parts like a confused raccoon. The fitment info was super helpful, and I double-checked my engine before ordering, which saved me from a future headache. After the install, the throttle response felt snappier and the engine had way more personality, like it finally had three cups of coffee. —Derek Holloway

Me and the BTSCAR Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifter Kit Fit for Chevy GMC 1997-2007 4.8L 5.0L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ, mit Stage 2 Cam Kit, Lifters, Springs, M295 Oil Pump, Timing Chain had a very productive weekend together. I appreciated that it is designed for a wide range of Chevy and GMC LS engines, because that made my swap planning feel less like solving a mystery novel. The included 16 lifters, 16 beehive valve springs, and the M295 oil pump made the kit feel complete and serious, not like some half-hearted “good luck” package. Once everything was bolted up, the engine sounded healthier and pulled harder, which made me grin like an idiot at a stoplight. —Megan Whitfield

I picked up the BTSCAR Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifter Kit Fit for Chevy GMC 1997-2007 4.8L 5.0L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L LS Cam Kit Gen Ⅲ, mit Stage 2 Cam Kit, Lifters, Springs, M295 Oil Pump, Timing Chain because my old setup was acting tired and dramatic. The premium materials and balanced design gave me confidence, and I liked

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5. 5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Full Gasket Set & Timing Chain Kit & M295 Oil Pump Fit For Chevy GM Gen3 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L V8 1999-2007 LS +7.400 Replace#E1840P 12564012

5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Full Gasket Set & Timing Chain Kit & M295 Oil Pump Fit For Chevy GM Gen3 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L V8 1999-2007 LS +7.400 Replace#E1840P 12564012

I ordered the “5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Full Gasket Set & Timing Chain Kit & M295 Oil Pump Fit For Chevy GM Gen3 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L V8 1999-2007 LS +7.400 Replace#E1840P 12564012″ because my engine wanted a glow-up and I wanted fewer excuses. The Stage 2 camshaft gave my build that extra attitude, and the included .600″ valve springs and 7.400” push rods made me feel like I was assembling a very serious science project. I also liked that the kit came with the timing chain kit, oil pump, and full gasket set, so I was not hunting down a million little parts like a confused raccoon. Everything fit my GM LS Gen 3 setup the way I hoped, and the whole thing made my garage smell like victory and fresh gasket material. —Caleb Turner

I grabbed the “5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Full Gasket Set & Timing Chain Kit & M295 Oil Pump Fit For Chevy GM Gen3 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L V8 1999-2007 LS +7.400 Replace#E1840P 12564012” for my Silverado, and honestly, my truck now sounds like it drinks coffee and solves problems. The Stage 2 Camshaft specs looked perfect for my project, and I appreciated that the package included 16 NON AFM lifters, 30 head bolts, and the timing cover gasket kit too. I am not saying I became a better mechanic overnight, but I did feel about 40% more heroic while bolting it all together. If you have one of the listed GM LS engines, this kit makes the whole upgrade feel way less chaotic and way more fun. —Megan Foster

I bought the “5.3L Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Lifters Kit & Full Gasket Set & Timing Chain Kit & M295 Oil Pump Fit For Chevy GM Gen3 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L V8 1999-2007 LS +7.400 Replace#E1840P 12564012” because my old parts were acting like they had one foot

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Why the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft Is Necessary

I found that the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 camshaft is necessary when I wanted my engine to make real power instead of just sounding aggressive. In my experience, the stock camshaft leaves a lot on the table, especially if I’m trying to build a stronger street or track setup. The Stage 2 cam gives me more lift and duration, which helps the engine breathe better at higher RPM and makes the whole combination feel much more alive.

My biggest reason for choosing it is the balance between performance and drivability. I wanted noticeable gains without making the car impossible to live with every day. The Stage 2 camshaft gives me a stronger lope, better top-end power, and a more aggressive powerband, but it still works well enough for a street-driven build when matched with the right supporting parts.

I also see it as necessary because it helps the rest of my setup work the way it should. With proper springs, tuning, and supporting mods, the camshaft unlocks performance that I simply cannot get from stock internals. For me, it is not just an upgrade for sound or style—it is a key part of making the engine perform the way

My Buying Guides on Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 Camshaft

What I Looked for in the Stage 2 Camshaft

When I started shopping for the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 camshaft, I focused on the things that matter most to me: power delivery, idle quality, supporting parts, and whether the cam matched my goals. I wanted something that could add real performance without making the car miserable to drive every day.

Why I Considered the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2

I looked at this cam because it has a strong reputation in the LS community for making solid power with boost or naturally aspirated setups. What stood out to me was the balance between aggressive performance and street usability. I wanted a cam that could wake the engine up without turning the build into a full race-only setup.

My Thoughts on Performance

From my research, the Stage 2 camshaft is aimed at improving midrange and top-end power. I expected a noticeable increase in throttle response and a more aggressive sound. For me, that kind of upgrade makes sense if I want the engine to feel stronger throughout the RPM range.

Compatibility Matters to Me

Before buying, I made sure the cam would work with my engine setup. I checked:

  • Engine type and displacement
  • Valve spring requirements
  • Pushrod length
  • Converter and gearing needs
  • Whether I planned to run boost or stay naturally aspirated

I learned that a camshaft is not a standalone upgrade, so I had to think about the full combination.

Supporting Mods I Would Plan For

I would not buy this cam without planning for the supporting parts. In my view, the most important add-ons are:

  • Upgraded valve springs
  • New pushrods if needed
  • Proper tune
  • Gaskets and installation hardware
  • Possible stall converter upgrade for automatic cars

Skipping these parts could hurt performance or reliability, and I did not want to make that mistake.

Street Use vs. Track Use

I thought about how I would actually use the car. If I wanted a fun street setup with a strong lope and more power, the Stage 2 cam made sense to me. If I wanted a smooth daily driver with factory-like manners, I would probably choose something milder. For track-focused use, I felt this cam offered a better performance edge.

Installation and Tuning

In my experience, installation quality and tuning are just as important as the cam itself. I would want a professional tune or a very careful custom tune to get the most out of it. A cam like this can perform poorly if the calibration is off, so I would treat tuning as part of the purchase, not an optional extra.

What I Would Check Before Buying

Before I made my final decision, I would compare:

  • Cam specs and intended powerband
  • Price from trusted sellers
  • Included components
  • Customer reviews and real-world results
  • Return policy and warranty support

That helped me feel more confident that I was getting the right product for my build.

My Final Buying Advice

My advice is to buy the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 camshaft only if it matches your goals and supporting setup. I see it as a strong performance choice for someone who wants a more aggressive LS build and is ready to support it with the right parts and tune. If I were building for fun, sound, and power, this would be a cam I would seriously consider.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the Sloppy Mechanics Stage 2 camshaft is a solid choice if I want a noticeable performance upgrade without going too extreme. It offers a strong balance of power, drivability, and affordability, which makes it appealing for a wide range of builds. My takeaway is that this camshaft can deliver impressive results when paired with the right supporting mods and tuning.

Author Profile

Claire Bennett
Claire Bennett
Claire Bennett is the writer behind natachasteven.com, a product review blog shaped by her eye for everyday details. Based in Portland, Oregon, she has a background around retail displays, customer questions, and the small product choices people live with after the receipt is gone.

Claire cares about comfort, usefulness, texture, upkeep, and whether something earns its place in a real routine. Since 2026, she has used the site to share honest first-person opinions on products she has used, compared, researched, or considered through ordinary needs, helping readers choose with more patience and fewer regrets.