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The Chevrolet Corvette LS7 is a powerhouse of performance, known for its incredible horsepower and torque. For those looking to push the limits of their LS7 builds beyond 550 horsepower, selecting the right camshaft and exhaust combination is crucial. In this article, we will explore the best camshaft and exhaust combos that can help you achieve that goal while ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Understanding the LS7 Engine
The LS7 engine, a 7.0L V8 powerhouse, is renowned for its high-revving capabilities and robust design. With a factory rating of 505 horsepower, enthusiasts often seek to enhance its performance through aftermarket modifications. The key to unlocking additional horsepower lies in the camshaft and exhaust system choices.
Choosing the Right Camshaft
A camshaft is the heart of an engine’s performance. It controls the timing and duration of the engine’s valves, directly impacting airflow and power output. For LS7 builds aiming for 550+ horsepower, consider the following camshaft options:
- Texas Speed 233/236 Camshaft: This camshaft offers a great balance of power and drivability, making it a popular choice among LS7 enthusiasts.
- Brian Tooley Racing Stage 3 Camshaft: Known for its aggressive profile, this camshaft maximizes horsepower while maintaining excellent throttle response.
- Comp Cams XFI RPM Camshaft: This camshaft is designed for high RPM performance, ideal for those looking to push their LS7 to the limits.
Exhaust System Options
The exhaust system plays a significant role in how efficiently an engine can expel gases. A well-designed exhaust system can enhance performance and sound. Here are some top exhaust options for LS7 builds:
- Corsa Performance Exhaust: Known for its aggressive sound and performance gains, this exhaust system is a favorite among Corvette owners.
- Hooker Blackheart Exhaust: This system offers a perfect blend of performance and fitment, ensuring your LS7 breathes freely.
- Borla Atak Exhaust: With its distinctive sound and impressive performance, the Borla Atak is a great choice for those who want to stand out.
Combining Camshaft and Exhaust for Optimal Performance
When selecting a camshaft and exhaust system, it’s essential to ensure they work well together. Here are some recommended combos that can help you achieve over 550 horsepower:
- Texas Speed 233/236 Camshaft with Corsa Performance Exhaust: This combination provides a perfect balance of power and sound, making it a top choice for many LS7 enthusiasts.
- Brian Tooley Racing Stage 3 Camshaft with Hooker Blackheart Exhaust: This setup maximizes airflow and performance, ensuring your LS7 reaches its full potential.
- Comp Cams XFI RPM Camshaft with Borla Atak Exhaust: Ideal for high RPM builds, this combo offers excellent horsepower gains and a head-turning exhaust note.
Tuning and Supporting Modifications
After selecting the right camshaft and exhaust combination, tuning is critical to ensure your LS7 runs efficiently. A professional tune will optimize fuel maps and ignition timing, allowing you to extract maximum power from your setup. Additionally, consider supporting modifications such as:
- High-flow fuel injectors
- Upgraded intake manifold
- Performance throttle body
Conclusion
Achieving over 550 horsepower in your Corvette LS7 is an exciting challenge that requires careful selection of components. By choosing the right camshaft and exhaust combination, along with proper tuning and supporting modifications, you can unlock the full potential of your LS7 engine. Whether you’re on the track or the street, these upgrades will ensure your Corvette stands out in both performance and sound.