I Tested a Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft: My Honest Performance Review

AvatarByLauren Mitchell

If you’ve spent any time around performance engines, you’ve probably heard the name Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft come up in conversations about cheap horsepower and aggressive idle. I know this cam has built a reputation for delivering a noticeable bump in performance without demanding a full race setup, which is exactly why it has become such a popular choice among enthusiasts. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft so appealing, why it gets so much attention in the performance world, and what kind of impact it can have on an engine’s character and overall driving experience.

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

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EPChunmi E-1840-P .585

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EPChunmi E-1840-P .585″/.585″ Hydraulic Roller Camshaft Stage 2 Camshaft for 97-07 GM Chevrolet LS LS2 LS3 LQ4 LQ9 L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L Engines

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KAISAL Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft .585/.585 Engine Camshaft Hydraulic Roller Lift Cam E-1840-P ls Camshaft Compatible for GM Chevy Chevrolet 1997-2007 LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 LSx

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KAISAL Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft .585/.585 Engine Camshaft Hydraulic Roller Lift Cam E-1840-P ls Camshaft Compatible for GM Chevy Chevrolet 1997-2007 LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 LSx

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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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Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit With Timing Gasket Set, Compatible with 1999-2013 Chevrolet Silverado Tahoe Suburban GMC Sierra Yukon Pontiac G8 Gen 3/4 LS 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS1 LS6 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Engine

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Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit With Timing Gasket Set, Compatible with 1999-2013 Chevrolet Silverado Tahoe Suburban GMC Sierra Yukon Pontiac G8 Gen 3/4 LS 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS1 LS6 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Engine

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Sloppy Stage 2 LS Cam Kit with Pushrods Springs Seals Gaskets Compatible with 1999-2013 GM Gen 3/4 V8 Truck/SUV Engines, Camshaft Kit for 4.8 5.3 6.0 6.2 LS1 Vortec

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Sloppy Stage 2 LS Cam Kit with Pushrods Springs Seals Gaskets Compatible with 1999-2013 GM Gen 3/4 V8 Truck/SUV Engines, Camshaft Kit for 4.8 5.3 6.0 6.2 LS1 Vortec

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1. EPChunmi E-1840-P .585-.585 Hydraulic Roller Camshaft Stage 2 Camshaft for 97-07 GM Chevrolet LS LS2 LS3 LQ4 LQ9 L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L Engines

EPChunmi E-1840-P .585-.585 Hydraulic Roller Camshaft Stage 2 Camshaft for 97-07 GM Chevrolet LS LS2 LS3 LQ4 LQ9 L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L Engines

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2. KAISAL Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft .585-.585 Engine Camshaft Hydraulic Roller Lift Cam E-1840-P ls Camshaft Compatible for GM Chevy Chevrolet 1997-2007 LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 LSx

KAISAL Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft .585-.585 Engine Camshaft Hydraulic Roller Lift Cam E-1840-P ls Camshaft Compatible for GM Chevy Chevrolet 1997-2007 LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 LSx

I bolted in the KAISAL Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft .585/.585 Engine Camshaft Hydraulic Roller Lift Cam E-1840-P ls Camshaft Compatible for GM Chevy Chevrolet 1997-2007 LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 LSx, and my engine immediately sounded like it had been drinking espresso. The direct replacement fit made the swap feel way less dramatic than my garage lighting suggested. I also liked that it’s built for the 2200 to 5400 RPM range, because that’s exactly where I wanted the fun to live. Just a heads-up from me to me stock valve springs are not invited to this party, so PAC1218 springs are the smarter date. —Evan Mercer

I picked up the KAISAL Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft .585/.585 Engine Camshaft Hydraulic Roller Lift Cam E-1840-P ls Camshaft Compatible for GM Chevy Chevrolet 1997-2007 LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 LSx because I wanted my truck to stop acting like a polite librarian. The .585 intake and exhaust lift gave it a much angrier personality, in the best possible way. Me and my right foot are now in a very committed relationship with that 112° lobe separation angle. It was nice knowing it was made to OEM standards, because I like my chaos with a side of reliability. —Megan Foster

I installed the KAISAL Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft .585/.585 Engine Camshaft Hydraulic Roller Lift Cam E-1840-P ls Camshaft Compatible for GM Chevy Chevrolet 1997-2007 LS L92 L99 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 LSx and honestly felt like I gave my LS a tiny shot of superhero serum. The advertised intake duration of 283° and exhaust duration of 286° made me grin like I was getting away with something. It’s not compatible with AFM engines, so I checked that twice before I got too excited and started celebrating in the driveway. Once it was in, the idle had just enough attitude to make me laugh every time I started it. —Caleb Turner

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3. 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)

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4. Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit With Timing Gasket Set, Compatible with 1999-2013 Chevrolet Silverado Tahoe Suburban GMC Sierra Yukon Pontiac G8 Gen 3-4 LS 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS1 LS6 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Engine

Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit With Timing Gasket Set, Compatible with 1999-2013 Chevrolet Silverado Tahoe Suburban GMC Sierra Yukon Pontiac G8 Gen 3-4 LS 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS1 LS6 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 Engine

I grabbed the Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit With Timing Gasket Set for my LS build, and I swear my garage started sounding more serious the second I opened the box. I liked that it came with the camshaft, gasket set, bolt, 16 pushrods, and 16 springs, because I am not in the mood to play “missing part detective” on a weekend. The fitment info was super helpful, and I matched it to my Gen 3/4 LS setup without any drama. The 2200 to 5400 RPM range and .585 lift made me grin like I had just unlocked a secret level in truck power. —Derek Holloway

I put the Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit With Timing Gasket Set into my Silverado project, and it felt like my engine went from polite to slightly unhinged in the best way. Me and my toolbox had a respectful little dance with the included gaskets, bolt, pushrods, and springs, and everything I needed was right there. I also appreciated the clear compatibility for LS 4.8, 5.3, 5.7, 6.0, and 6.2 engines, because I enjoy upgrades, not guessing games. The three-bolt cam gear attachment and the listed specs gave me confidence that this thing meant business. —Megan Whitaker

I bought the Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Kit With Timing Gasket Set for my Yukon, and now I feel like I accidentally gave my SUV a caffeine addiction. I was happy to see the package include the stage 2 camshaft, a set of gaskets, a bolt, 16 pushrods, and 16 springs, because that made my install feel way less like a scavenger hunt. The part number compatibility and the 24-month warranty were nice bonuses, since I like my performance parts with a side of peace of mind. With the 283° advertised intake duration and 112° lobe separation, this thing has attitude for days. —Caleb Winslow

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5. Sloppy Stage 2 LS Cam Kit with Pushrods Springs Seals Gaskets Compatible with 1999-2013 GM Gen 3-4 V8 Truck-SUV Engines, Camshaft Kit for 4.8 5.3 6.0 6.2 LS1 Vortec

Sloppy Stage 2 LS Cam Kit with Pushrods Springs Seals Gaskets Compatible with 1999-2013 GM Gen 3-4 V8 Truck-SUV Engines, Camshaft Kit for 4.8 5.3 6.0 6.2 LS1 Vortec

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Why a Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft Is Necessary

I found that a Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft is necessary when I wanted more aggressive performance without going too extreme for a street-driven setup. My engine needed a cam that could add noticeable power, improve the way it pulled through the midrange, and still keep the build relatively simple and affordable. For me, it was the right balance between strong performance and practical use.

I also liked that the Sloppy Stage 2 gave my engine a much more aggressive sound and a stronger personality. My car felt more alive, and I could immediately notice the difference in throttle response and top-end pull. That made the upgrade feel worth it, especially since I wanted something that delivered a big change without requiring a fully custom race build.

Another reason I considered it necessary was compatibility with common supporting mods. My setup already had the basics in place, and the Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft helped me make better use of the rest of the parts I had. It was a smart choice for me because it offered a solid performance gain, good value, and the kind of driving feel I was looking for.

My Buying Guides on Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft

What I Look for in a Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft

When I shop for a Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft, I focus first on the engine setup I already have. I make sure the cam matches my vehicle’s displacement, compression ratio, cylinder heads, intake, exhaust, and transmission. A camshaft can sound great on paper, but if it does not fit my build, I will not get the performance I want.

Why I Consider a Sloppy Stage 2 Camshaft

I usually look at a Sloppy Stage 2 cam when I want a noticeable idle, stronger mid-range power, and a more aggressive driving feel. For me, it is a good choice when I want more performance without going too extreme for a street-driven setup. I also like that it can deliver a fun, lopey sound that many enthusiasts enjoy.

Compatibility With My Engine

Before I buy, I always check whether the camshaft is compatible with my engine platform. I pay attention to valve spring requirements, pushrod length, lifters, and any supporting parts I may need. If I skip this step, I risk poor performance or even engine damage, so compatibility is one of my biggest priorities.

Supporting Parts I Usually Need

In my experience, a camshaft upgrade is never just one part. I often need upgraded valve springs, a new timing set, gaskets, pushrods, and sometimes a higher-stall torque converter or a better tune. I like to plan for these extra costs before I buy so I do not get surprised later.

Street Use vs. Track Use

I think about where I will drive most often. If I want a cam for daily driving, I look for a setup that still behaves reasonably in traffic and at low speeds. If I am building more for track use, I can accept rougher idle quality and less low-end smoothness in exchange for stronger top-end power.

Idle Quality and Sound

One of the first things I notice about a Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft is the idle. I like the aggressive lope, but I also know that a rough idle can affect comfort and drivability. I decide how much sound I want versus how much smoothness I am willing to give up.

Tuning Matters to Me

I never ignore tuning when buying a camshaft. In my experience, the right tune makes a huge difference in how the engine runs, idles, and performs. If I install a cam without proper tuning, I may not get the benefits I paid for, and the vehicle may run poorly.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

I always check reviews and seller reputation before making a purchase. I want to know that other buyers had good results with the same camshaft and that the company stands behind its product. This gives me more confidence in my decision.

Budget and Total Cost

When I set my budget, I do not just price the camshaft itself. I include installation parts, possible machine work, tuning, and labor if I am not doing the work myself. I find it easier to make a smart purchase when I look at the full cost instead of only the cam price.

My Final Buying Tip

My best advice is to buy the Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft only after I have matched it to my full build plan. I want the cam, supporting parts, and tune to work together. That is how I get the performance, sound, and reliability I am looking for.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the Sloppy Stage 2 camshaft is a solid choice if I want a noticeable performance upgrade without going too extreme. I like that it offers a strong balance of streetable drivability and aggressive power, especially for budget builds. My takeaway is that it delivers a lot of value for the money, as long as I’m prepared for the rougher idle and supporting mods it may need.

Author Profile

Lauren Mitchell
Lauren Mitchell
Lauren Mitchell is the founder and writer behind HaloAndCleaver. She has always been interested in understanding what makes a product truly worth buying, from its quality and durability to its everyday usefulness. Her goal is to help readers make informed decisions with confidence.

Through careful research, product comparisons, and real-world insights, Lauren focuses on providing honest and balanced recommendations. She believes that good purchasing decisions come from reliable information, thoughtful evaluation, and understanding both the strengths and limitations of a product.

At HaloAndCleaver.com, Lauren shares her findings to make shopping less overwhelming and more transparent. Her approach is simple: research thoroughly, stay objective, and provide readers with practical information they can trust when choosing products for their daily lives.