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
- 🚗【Compatible Vehicles for Chevrolet】: for 2007-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche, 2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2007-2014 Chevrolet Suburban 1500, 2007-2014 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2005-2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer ext, 2007-2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer
- 🚗【Compatible Vehicles for GMC】: for 2005-2009 GMC Envoy XL 5.3L, 2007 GMC Envoy Xuv 5.3L, 2007-2009 GMC Envoy 5.3L, 2007 GMC Sierra1500 5.3L, 2005-2013 GMC Sierra1500 5.3L, 2010-2013 GMC Sierra 5.3L, 2007-2014 GMC Yukon XL 5.3L, 2008-2014 GMC Yukon 5.3L
- 🚗【Other compatible Vehicles】: for 2007 Buick Rainier 5.3L, 2005-2006 Isuzu Ascending 5.3L, 2007-2009 Saab 9-7X 5.3L
- 🚗【Check OE number】: AFM kit is of superior quality, complete accessories can replace OE number--17122490, 17120735, 12499225, 12576400, 12648846,12569256, 12571595, 12632143, 12619820, 12639516, TCS45993, 12557840, 12625436, MC1394, 5.3L V8 Engine 5328CC 325CID 16Values
- 🚗【OEM Fit】Our full cylinder engine gasket set and camshaft 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
- Compatible Vehicles for Chevrolet: for 2007-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche, 2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2007-2014 Chevrolet Suburban 1500, 2007-2014 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2005-2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer ext, 2007-2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Compatible Vehicles for GMC: for 2005-2009 GMC Envoy XL 5.3L, 2007 GMC Envoy Xuv 5.3L, 2007-2009 2007-2009 GMC Envoy 5.3L, 2007 GMC Sierra1500 5.3L, 2005-2013 GMC Sierra1500 5.3L, 2010-2013 GMC Sierra 5.3L, 2007-2014 GMC Yukon XL 5.3L, 2008-2014 GMC Yukon 5.3L
- Other compatible Vehicles: for 2007 Buick Rainier 5.3L, 2005-2006 Isuzu Ascending 5.3L, 2007-2009 Saab 9-7X 5.3L
- Check OE number: AFM kit is of superior quality, complete accessories can replace OE number--17122490, 17120735, 12499225, 12576400, 12648846,12569256, 12571595, 12632143, 12619820, 12639516, TCS45993, 12557840, 12625436, MC1394, 5.3L V8 Engine 5328CC 325CID 16Values
- OEM Fit:Our full cylinder engine gasket set and camshaft 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
- 【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
- FIT FOR CHEVY: NON AFM 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 1: Fit For Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4.8L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L 2007-2013; Fit For Chevrolet Suburban 1500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For Chevrolet Suburban 1500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For Chevrolet Tahoe 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For Chevrolet Tahoe 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For Chevrolet Avalanche 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For Chevrolet Avalanche 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For Chevrolet Express 1500/2500/3500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For Chevrolet Express 1500/2500/3500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013;
- Fitment 2: Fit For GMC Sierra 1500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For GMC Sierra 1500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For GMC Yukon 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For GMC Yukon 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For GMC Yukon XL 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For GMC Yukon XL 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For GMC Savana 1500/2500/3500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For GMC Savana 1500/2500/3500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For Cadillac Escalade 5.3L 6.0L 2007-2009; Fit For Cadillac Escalade 5.3L 6.0L 2010-2013; Fit For Hummer H3 5.3L 2007-2010;
- OE Part Number: Camshaft:12593205,12625437; Valve Stem Seal:12482063; Push Rod:10238852,8102388520; Spring:15120841,15120844,15750726; Valve Lifter:12564012,12564012, 12576400, 12648846, HT2148, HT2281, L2148; Timing Cover Gasket Kit:TCS45993, 12633904, 12589016, 11561455; Cylinder Head Gasket:12 589 226,12498544,12565390,12573949,261721;
- Item Include: 1*Camshaft 2*Cylinder Head Gasket 4*Lifter Tray 16*Valve Lifter 16*Spring 16*Push Rod 20*Valve Stem Seal (As pictures show)
- Customer Service:1 Year
- OE Part Number -- HS26744PT, 12499225, 12619823, 17122490, 17120735, 12576400. This non afm/dod camshaft lifter kit compatible with Chevy Gen V L83 5.3L engine 2014-2021.
- Fitment -- Compatible with Chevy Express 2500/3500 2018-2021, Express 4500 2021, Silverado 1500 2014-2021, Silverado 2500 2020-2021, Silverado 3500 2021, Suburban 2015-2021, Tahoe 2015-2021, Corvette 2014-2021, Camaro 2016-2021.
- Fitment -- Compatible with GMC Savana 2500/3500 2018-2021, Savana 4500 2021, Sierra 1500 2014-2021, Sierra 1500 LIMITED 2019, Sierra 2500/3500 2020-2021, Yukon/Yukon XL 2015-2021; Fit for Cadillac CTS 2016-2019, Escalade 2015-2021.
- 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, 1 x Seals Set.
- Reliable Quality -- All parts in the camshaft lifter kit are rigorously inspected and verified to meet a variety of the most stringent quality standards to ensure a long service life and are tested before leaving the factory to ensure reliability and superior performance.
- FIT FOR CHEVY: AFM DOD disbale kit fit for Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 1500 Classic, Suburban, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Trailblazer, Trailblazer Ext 5.3L
- FIT FOR GMC: 5.3 Lifters kit fit for GMC Envoy XL, Envoy Xuv, Envoy, Sierra, Sierra 1500, Sierra 1500 Classic, Yukon, Yukon XL 1500 5.3L
- FIT FOR OTHER MODELS: 5.3 Head gasket kit fit for Buick Rainier 5.3L, for Isuzu Ascender 5.3L, for Saab 9-7x 5.3L
- PACKAGE INCLUDE: 1 x camshaft, 16 x non afm roller lifters, 4 x lifter trays w/ bolts, 2 x head gaskets, 30 x cylinder head bolts, valve cover gasket, 16 x valve stem seals, exhaust & intake manifold gasket, front camshaft seal, o-rings, other small gaskets, 1 x balancer bolt, front cover gasket set, ls gen 4 valley pan cover plate with gasket and bolts, 1 x oil pump, 1 x camshaft retainer plate gasket
- 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
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.