Does your truck feel sluggish when you need real power? Many truck owners love their Chevy or GMC 5.3L engines, but those factory Active Fuel Management (AFM) systems can really hold them back. You know the feeling: you want that satisfying rumble and instant throttle response, but the computer keeps switching cylinders off to save a tiny bit of gas. It’s frustrating when you know your engine has more to give.
Choosing the right AFM delete kit and matching camshaft is a huge decision. Do you pick the cheapest option? Will it really work well with your driving style? Getting the wrong parts means wasted money and hours spent troubleshooting. We understand these headaches. You want reliability, performance gains, and a smooth idle—not a tricky installation.
This post cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what you need to know about pairing a top-tier AFM delete kit with the perfect cam for your goals. By the end, you will know which components deliver the best sound and horsepower boost for your specific 5.3L engine. Let’s dive into building the V8 power you deserve!
Top 5.3 Afm Delete Kit With Cam Recommendations
- FIT FOR CHEVY: AFM DOD disable kit fit for Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500 Classic, Silverado 1500, Suburban 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, Trailblazer EXT, Trailblazer 5.3L
- FIT FOR GMC: 5.3 Head gasket kit fit for GMC Envoy XL, Envoy Xuv, Envoy, Sierra 1500 Classic, Sierra 1500, Sierra, Yukon XL 1500, Yukon 5.3L
- FIT FOR OTHER MODELS: NON AFM lifters kit fit for Buick Rainier 5.3L, fit for Isuzu Ascender 5.3L, fit for Saab 9-7x 5.3L
- PACKAGE INCLUDES: 1 x camshaft, 16 x non afm ls7 valve lifters w/ plastic guides, ls gen 4 valley cover plate w/ gasket & bolts, MLS head gaskets, 30 x head bolts, crankshaft bolt, front timing cover gasket set, intake manifold gasket (metal)
- 12625437 CAM SPECS: Type: hydraulic roller, intake duration @ .050": 199, exhaust duration @ .050": 191, valve lift int (in.): .466, valve lift exh (in.): .457, rocker ratio: 1.7, lobe seperation: 114, camshaft gear attachment: 1-bolt
- 5.3 Cam and lifter kit fit for 2005-2007 Buick Rainier 5.3L, for 2007-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche 5.3L, for 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Classic 5.3L, for 2005-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L, for 2007-2013 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 5.3L, for 2014 Chevrolet Suburban 5.3L
- AFM DOD disable kit for 2007-2013 Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L, for 2005-2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer Ext 5.3L, for 2006-2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer 5.3L, for 2005-2006 GMC Envoy Xl 5.3L, for 2005 GMC Envoy Xuv 5.3L, for 2005-2009 GMC Envoy 5.3L
- Engine rebuild kit for 2007 GMC Sierra 1500 Classic 5.3L, for 2005-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L, for 2010-2013 GMC Sierra 5.3L, for 2007-2013 GMC Yukon Xl 1500 5.3L, for 2008-2013 GMC Yukon 5.3L, for 2005-2006 Isuzu Ascender 5.3L, for 2005-2009 Saab 9-7x 5.3L
- AFM DOD disable kit include 1 bolt camshaft, 16 non afm ls7 valve lifters with plastic guides, ls gen 4 valley cover plate with gasket and bolts, MLS head gaskets, cylinder head bolt set, crankshaft bolt, front timing cover gasket set, intake manifold gasket (metal)
- NOTE: Professional installation is recommended
- 【FITMENT】:for 2014-2021 GM Chevrolet Gen V L83 5.3L Engine. Fit for 2014-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8, for 2015-2021 Chevrolet Suburban 5.3L V8, for 2015-2021 Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L V8. Fit for 2014-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8, for 2015-2021 GMC Yukon 5.3L V8, for 2015-2021 GMC Yukon XL 5.3L V8
- 【Replacement OE Number】：12499225, 12659260, EG365, HS26744PT. Our complete engine gasket set includes: Chevrolet Gen V Head Bolt Set, MLS Head Gaskets and seals Set, LS7 Style Lifters, Set of 4 GM LS2 Lifter Trays, Gen V NON AFM Camshaft
- 【OEM Fit】Our camshaft and full cylinder engine gasket kits are rigorously tested and manufactured using advanced manufacturing processes to meet OE specifications to ensure a precise fit, and feature a precise OEM design for easy installation. Engine cylinder head gasket kits require no drilling or cutting, just disassemble the valve cover.
- 【High Quality】: Using advanced manufacturing technology to ensure its durability, not easy to break; and application-specific design, so that you can install it correctly, to provide you with the best experience
- 【1-Year Warranty & Hassle-Free Support】：Backed by a 1-year warranty, we ensure your satisfaction. Our support team is always ready to help if you have any questions or concerns. We’re committed to delivering top-quality products and exceptional customer service.
- OE Part Number -- Camshaft: 12619823; Lifters kit: 12499225, 12595365, 17122490; Head gasket set: HS26744PT, HS54996A; Bolts: ES73121; Timing Cover Gasket Set: 12633904, TCS45993, TCS10448.
- Fitment -- Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 2014-2021, Silverado 2500 2020-2021, Silverado 3500 2021, Suburban 2015-2021, Tahoe 2015-2021, Corvette 2014-2021, Camaro 2016-2021, Express 2500/3500 2018-2021, Express 4500 2021.
- Fitment -- Compatible with GMC Sierra 2500/3500 2020-2021, Sierra 1500 2014-2021, Sierra 1500 LIMITED 2019, Yukon/Yukon XL 2015-2021; Fit for Cadillac CTS 2016-2019, Escalade 2015-2021, Savana 2500/3500 2018-2021, Savana 4500 2021.
- Package Inludes -- 1 x Gen V Non AFM/DOD Camshaft, 16 x LS7 Style Lifters, 4 x GM LS2 Lifter Trays, 2 X MLS Head Gaskets, 1 x Gen V Head Bolt Set, 1x Timing Cover Gasket Set, 1 x Seals Set.
- Note -- This non afm/dod cam lifter kit compatible with GM Chevy Gen V L83 5.3L engine 2014-2021. Please confirm the OE number and pictures match your requirements before purchasing.
- [Replace Part Number]:12619823, 17122490, 17120735, 12499225, 12576400, HS26744PT.
- [Applicable model]: Fit for 2014-2023 GM Chevrolet Gen V L83 5.3L Engine
- [Package included]: For Chevrolet Gen V Head Bolt Set, MLS Head Gaskets and seals Set, LS7 Style Lifters,1*Set of 4 GM LS2 Lifter Trays, For Gen V NON AFM Camshaft.
- [Note]: Before purchasing, please check the part number, model and years. If you not sure, please contact us.( This kit has a wide range of applications. It is recommended to make sure it is suitable before purchasing. If you are not sure, please contact us. Send us the VIN number/engine model or the car model/ Years.)
- [1-Year-Warrantly]: Products are 100% inspected before shipment. If you have any questions after receiving the goods, please feel free to contact us. (Some parts are missing after receipt, please contact us.)
- 【FITMENT】:for 2014-2018 GM Chevrolet Gen V L83 5.3L Engine. Fit for 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8, for 2015-2018 Chevrolet Suburban 5.3L V8, for 2015-2018 Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L V8. Fit for 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8, for 2015-2018 GMC Yukon 5.3L V8, for 2015-2018 GMC Yukon XL 5.3L V8
- 【Replacement OE Number】: ES73121 CS26744 12499225. Our complete engine gasket set includes: Chevrolet Gen V Head Bolt Set, MLS Head Gaskets and seals Set, LS7 Style Lifters, Set of 4 GM LS2 Lifter Trays, Gen V AFM Camshaft,Thrust plate
- 【OEM Fit】Our camshaft and full cylinder engine gasket kits are rigorously tested and manufactured using advanced manufacturing processes to meet OE specifications to ensure a precise fit, and feature a precise OEM design for easy installation. Engine cylinder head gasket kits require no drilling or cutting, just disassemble the valve cover
- 【High Quality】: Using advanced manufacturing technology to ensure its durability, not easy to break; and application-specific design, so that you can install it correctly, to provide you with the best experience
- 【1-Year Warranty & Hassle-Free Support】：Backed by a 1-year warranty, we ensure your satisfaction. Our support team is always ready to help if you have any questions or concerns. We’re committed to delivering top-quality products and exceptional customer service
- 【Fitment】 Fit For Buick Rainier 5.3L V8 2007; Fit For Buick LaCrosse 5.3L V8 2008-2009; Fit For Chevrolet Avalanche 5.3L V8 2007-2013; Fit For Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 2007-2013; Fit For Chevrolet Suburban 1500 5.3L V8 2007-2014; Fit For Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L V8 2007-2014; Fit For Chevrolet Impala 5.3L V8 2007-2009; Fit For Chevrolet Monte Carlo 5.3L V8 2007; Fit For Chevrolet Trailblazer 5.3L V8 2007-2008; Fit For GMC Envoy 5.3L V8 2007-2009; Fit For GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 2007-2013; Fit For GMC Yukon 5.3L V8 2007-2014; Fit For GMC Yukon XL 1500 5.3L V8 2007-2014; Fit For Pontiac Grand Prix 5.3L V8 2007-2008; Fit For Saab 9-7X 5.3L 2007-2009
- 【Part Number】 Camshaft: 12625436, 12593207, Head Gasket Set w/ Bolt: 12589226, 12565390, 12573949; Valve Lifter: 12740071, 12569256, 12571595, 12619820, 12632143, 12639516, 12645725, 12680871, 12698946, 17122490; Intake Manifold Gasket: 89060413, 17113557, 89017367, 89017589; Exhaust Manifold Gasket: 12617944, 12558573, 12600530; Oil Pan Gasket: 12612350, 12558760, 12580672, 12599020; Valley Pan Gasket: 89017690;
- 【All-In-One Kit for 5.3L Engine Overhaul — No Extra Purchase Needed】 1x Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) Head Gasket; 1x Valve Cover Gasket; 16x Valve Stem Seals, 1x Intake/Exhaust Manifold Gasket, 1x Front Camshaft Seal, O-Rings/Small Gaskets, 30x Cylinder Head Bolts (20×100mm, 10×45mm), 8x AFM + 8x NON-AFM Hydraulic Lifters, 4x AFM Lifter Trays w/Bolts, 1x Single-Bolt DOD Camshaft (As The Main Picture Shows)
- 【Durable Design for US Road Conditions — Solves AFM Leaks/Noise】 DOD Camshaft: High-strength steel, wear-resistant, fit for towing/off-roading; MLS Gasket: Prevents coolant/oil leaks in high/low temperatures; Lifters/Bolts: Precision-engineered for 5.3L V8, fixes AFM sluggish acceleration. All parts pass durability tests
- 【1-Year Warranty + US-Based Support — Focused on AFM/DOD Issue Resolution】 1-year warranty: Replace/refund for defective camshaft/lifters. 24/7 US team answers AFM fitment/installation questions, ideal for Silverado/Sierra/Yukon owners to fix 5.3L engine issues
- FITMENT: Camshaft and lifter kit fit for 2014-2021 GM Chevrolet Gen V L83 5.3L Engine
- PACKAGE: Overhaul kit include gen v non afm camshaft, ls7 style lifters, ls2 lifter trays, mls head gaskets, gen v head bolt set, seals, as pictures show
- REPLACE PART NUMBER: 12619823, 17122490, 17120735, 12499225, 12576400, HS26744PT
- FEATURE: Application-specific design ensures correct fitment
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Upgrading Your 5.3L AFM Engine
If you own a GM truck or SUV with the popular 5.3L engine, you know about Active Fuel Management (AFM). AFM saves gas by shutting down cylinders. However, many owners choose to delete this system. Deleting AFM often pairs well with adding a new camshaft for better performance. This guide helps you choose the right AFM Delete Kit with a Cam.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a 5.3L AFM Delete Kit with a Cam, look for specific parts. A good kit makes the swap easy.
- AFM Delete Components: The kit must include a proper AFM delete controller or a replacement lifter tray. You need new lifters that do not rely on the AFM system. Look for “non-AFM” or “AFM delete” lifters.
- Camshaft Profile: The camshaft is vital. Decide what you want: better low-end torque or higher-end horsepower. A mild cam is good for daily driving. A more aggressive cam offers more power but might need higher octane fuel.
- Valve Springs and Retainers: A new cam spins faster. The stock valve springs might not handle the speed. Ensure the kit includes stronger valve springs and retainers to prevent “valve float.”
- Gaskets and Seals: A complete kit includes all necessary gaskets (like the valve cover and intake manifold gaskets). This saves you trips to the parts store.
2. Important Materials Matter
The parts must last a long time under stress. Material choice directly affects durability.
The camshaft itself should be made from high-quality steel or iron. Billet steel cams offer the best strength, though they cost more. Look at the lifters. Hydraulic roller lifters are standard now. Ensure the lifter bodies are strong steel. Cheap plastic trays or low-grade springs fail quickly. Good kits use precision-machined components.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Many things can make a kit great or terrible. Quality installation starts with the components.
What Improves Quality?
- Brand Reputation: Established performance brands often use better engineering.
- Tuning Included/Recommended: A new cam *needs* a proper engine tune. Kits that mention tuning support are usually higher quality.
- Made in the USA: Often, US-made components meet stricter quality controls.
What Reduces Quality?
- No Lifter Trays: If the kit skips the necessary lifter trays, you risk oil starvation or incorrect lifter positioning.
- Unknown Cam Specs: If the seller cannot tell you the cam’s duration or lift numbers, avoid it. Poorly matched specs hurt performance.
- Cheap Gaskets: Using thin, paper-like gaskets will cause leaks soon after installation.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Who buys this kit, and what do they expect?
Most people buy this kit for two main reasons. First, they want to fix the known reliability issues with the AFM system. AFM lifters often fail, causing expensive repairs. Deleting it solves this permanently. Second, users want more power and a better sound. A performance cam gives your truck a deeper, throatier idle, often called a “cam chop.”
Use Cases:
- Daily Driver Reliability: If you want a strong truck that won’t suddenly develop lifter noise, this kit secures reliability.
- Towing and Hauling: A cam designed for torque helps your truck pull heavy loads without straining the engine.
- Weekend Fun: If you enjoy spirited driving, the added horsepower feels great.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is AFM and why should I delete it?
A: AFM stands for Active Fuel Management. It shuts off half your engine cylinders to save gas. People delete it because the system often fails, causing expensive engine damage later.
Q: Will this kit hurt my gas mileage?
A: Yes, slightly. Since the engine runs on all eight cylinders all the time, you will likely lose 1–2 miles per gallon. However, you gain power.
Q: Do I need to change my computer tune after installing the kit?
A: Absolutely. You must get a professional custom tune. The new cam changes how the engine breathes. Without a tune, your engine runs poorly or can even get damaged.
Q: How long does the installation usually take?
A: For an experienced mechanic, it takes about a full day. If you are new to engine work, plan for two or three days. It involves removing the cylinder heads.
Q: Can I reuse my stock torque converter with this kit?
A: Maybe, but it is not recommended. A performance cam needs a tighter torque converter to keep the engine running smoothly at idle. Check the cam specs before deciding.
Q: What is the best cam grind for a stock 5.3L truck?
A: A mild “208/212” or “212/218” camshaft is usually best. These offer noticeable power gains without requiring major supporting mods or a wild idle sound.
Q: Does deleting AFM require removing the oil lifter oil manifold (LOM)?
A: Yes. The kit must include a block-off plate to seal the hole where the AFM oil manifold used to sit. This is a key part of the delete process.
Q: Are AFM delete kits legal for street use?
A: In most places, yes, as long as the vehicle still meets emissions standards. Since you are replacing one factory system with another, it is generally fine for street trucks.
Q: What is the risk if I install the cam but skip replacing the valve springs?
A: You risk “valve float.” This means the valves open too far or too fast at high RPMs. The piston can hit the open valve, causing catastrophic engine failure.
Q: Will this kit work on my 5.3L engine if it has Active Fuel Management (AFM) already?
A: Yes. These kits are specifically designed for the 5.3L engines (like the LM7, L33, L59, and the common LS4) that came equipped with the AFM solenoid system from the factory.