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Who is considered a Chevy Performance LS crate engine guru?

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Old 07-25-2022, 10:51 AM
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Default Who is considered a Chevy Performance LS crate engine guru?

As the title states. If I can't speak to a Chevrolet Performance engineer/tech, then who would be the next best thing?
Old 07-25-2022, 11:05 AM
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Dale Schwartz on FB sells a lot of them
Old 07-25-2022, 11:24 AM
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I'll see if I can contact him, thanks.
Anybody else have a recommendation?
Old 07-25-2022, 11:45 AM
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What are you trying to find out? The guys at Scoggin Dickey in Texas would be a good resource.
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Old 07-25-2022, 12:07 PM
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I am waiting 6+ months for an LS376/525, keeping things as OEM as possible is a top priority in this case, so I am looking for a workaround...and a cam/spring swap is an easy enough job, but I need to know exactly what hardware is required to convert a stock LS3 to a LS376/525.

I am trying to get a full, detailed list of the hardware differences between the LS376/525 and the E-ROD/stock LS3...down to the fasteners if applicable.
My understanding is there is no difference in any of the parts between the E-ROD and stock LS3, other than whatever CA emissions parts they throw in the E-ROD box, plus the E-ROD calibration program/tune would be different. So whatever parts required to convert one into an LS376/525, should also be the same for the other engine. (I have my own exhaust, oil pan, and an accessory package ready to go).

Old 07-25-2022, 07:02 PM
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The ONLY difference between the 430, 480, and 525HP LS3 is the cam. That's IT. And a crappy cam at that. Same lifters, pushrods, springs, retainers, keepers, etc.
Get a 430HP LS3 and put a GOOD cam in it.
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Old 07-26-2022, 07:55 AM
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Yep. Note that the ASA and Hot cams have less lift than the stock LS3 cam. (All are 0.525 on the exhaust, but the LS3 is .551 on the intake. The others are .525 on both)

A hot cam is around a 219/228 on 112, an ASA cam is around 226/236 on 110, I believe. They seem to not be fun to tune and really over no benefits, other than you don't need new springs. There are similar duration cams throughout this range that will have more power, smoother power, take better advantage of the head flow of an LS3 head.
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Old 07-26-2022, 09:02 AM
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As the others mentioned both the GM Hot Cam and GM ASA cam 3rd rate cams for a happy hp making LS3. If swapping the cam, it's worth upgrading to a much better aftermarket cam plus supporting valve train.
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Old 07-26-2022, 09:47 AM
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I have found that the GMPP controllers do not work well with a automatic trans.
Old 07-26-2022, 11:40 AM
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If you like the general spec of the hot cam, check into the Summit 8720R1.
Very similar specs EXCEPT it has .600 lift, plus it is ground on better lobe profiles.
And the $270 price tag doesn't hurt too much either....
Old 07-26-2022, 12:00 PM
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Originally Posted by G Atsma
If you like the general spec of the hot cam, check into the Summit 8720R1.
Very similar specs EXCEPT it has .600 lift, plus it is ground on better lobe profiles.
And the $270 price tag doesn't hurt too much either....
Purchased a stock LS3 crate today. Will look into aftermarket alternatives for the ASA cam that provide a similar, but more "optimized" driving experience, for lack of a better term.
Will look into Summit's cam, thanks.
Old 07-26-2022, 12:10 PM
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Yeah the crate cams like the other guys said are pretty old designs, there is much better out there.
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Old 07-26-2022, 12:40 PM
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Originally Posted by 3SP
Purchased a stock LS3 crate today. Will look into aftermarket alternatives for the ASA cam that provide a similar, but more "optimized" driving experience, for lack of a better term.
Will look into Summit's cam, thanks.
I would consider the Summit 8715 "Ghost cam." It will outperform the ASA cam in every respect and have excellent manners. You will need a matching spring and pushrod upgrade.

I had the ASA cam in a 5.3L and swapped to the Ghost cam and saw excellent results. I would also consider using the Holley Terminator X Max system for engine and transmission control.

Andrew
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Old 07-26-2022, 02:34 PM
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Originally Posted by Project GatTagO
I would consider the Summit 8715 "Ghost cam." It will outperform the ASA cam in every respect and have excellent manners. You will need a matching spring and pushrod upgrade.

I had the ASA cam in a 5.3L and swapped to the Ghost cam and saw excellent results. I would also consider using the Holley Terminator X Max system for engine and transmission control.

Andrew
I agree with this. I was just comparing to the Hot Cam, but if he was looking at the ASA cam, from what I've seen on these forums, the Ghost Cam would be a great fit.
Old 07-27-2022, 08:53 AM
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Originally Posted by G Atsma
I agree with this. I was just comparing to the Hot Cam, but if he was looking at the ASA cam, from what I've seen on these forums, the Ghost Cam would be a great fit.
Will look into it, thanks.
Old 07-27-2022, 09:30 AM
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Originally Posted by 3SP
Will look into it, thanks.
The stock ASA GM tune leaves much to be desired and with a cam that has different characteristics will be even worse. With a mild cam, like the Ghost Cam, and the Holley Terminator X Max, I can tune it to better for you than a mismatched GM ECU tune.

The Holley also offers the benefits of a wide band O2 sensor, real time tuning, data logging, and flexible inputs and outputs. If you want an OEM type installation, AC integration, variable sped cooling fans, the Holley is the way to go.

Andrew
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Old 07-27-2022, 01:28 PM
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OP,

Great advice from the community. We wouldn't hesitate to put either the SUM-8720R1 or the SUM-8715R1 in this LS3. They'll make similar or more power to their comparable GM cam. The plus side is they'll be easier to get along with and be easier on the valvetrain. With either of these you can run our .600" lift beehives and they'll be happy. Some upgraded pushrods are going to be needed. You would likely end up with a 7.400" or 7.425" pushrod with either of the two cams. However, it's always best to measure first. We can help put a package together for you if you'd like. More info on the combo your putting together and the goals for it will help fine-tune a cam recommendation.

Let us know if we can be of any further assistance. We'll be happy to help!
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Old 07-27-2022, 08:25 PM
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Originally Posted by Summitracing
OP,

Great advice from the community. We wouldn't hesitate to put either the SUM-8720R1 or the SUM-8715R1 in this LS3. They'll make similar or more power to their comparable GM cam. The plus side is they'll be easier to get along with and be easier on the valvetrain. With either of these you can run our .600" lift beehives and they'll be happy. Some upgraded pushrods are going to be needed. You would likely end up with a 7.400" or 7.425" pushrod with either of the two cams. However, it's always best to measure first. We can help put a package together for you if you'd like. More info on the combo your putting together and the goals for it will help fine-tune a cam recommendation.

Let us know if we can be of any further assistance. We'll be happy to help!
And both cams are currently on sale!

Andrew
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Old 07-28-2022, 08:44 AM
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Listen to Andrew. He tuned my 1965 Cutlass LS Swap and it runs/drives great.
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