Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (2023)

Does it always bother you to know what the best cam for 4.3 Vortec could be?

The invention of the Chevrolet Vortex technology in 1985 and its rapid development ever since have led to several competitions over the best performance parts for 4.3 Vortec.

The meaning of the term ‘Vortec’ is a marketing coinage from the combination of two words – ‘Vortex’ and ‘Technology’.

Thus arriving at the word “Vortec” as a brand name.

Vortec was very popular during the 90s.

It was considered a premium & reliable name that everyone could bank on.

Today, we are going to discuss the top camshaft of 4.3 Vortec.

Let’s dive into it-

Table of Contents

A List of Popular 05 Performance Cam for 4.3 Vortec

[ninja_tables id=”290″]

Which is the best 4.3 Vortec cam?

Several camshaft companies have gone into a series of innovative competitions to enhance the engine’s performance through their 4.3 Vortec camshaft products to get the best out of a truck.

These camshafts are capable of adding forty-two extra horsepower to the Chevy V6, while they also maintain the truck’s emissions.

Since these automobiles are manufactured with large cams that barely create the density of pressure needed by the sensor to read the computer and calibrate fuel, a 4.3 Vortec cam swap should be the next step to be taken.

A deep dive into the several brands of camshafts will make anyone understand that these hydraulics cannot serve the same purpose.

Therefore, when an unfit cam is fixed to any vehicle, it weakens them and functionsbelow expectation.

Why is Lunati the best cam brand for 4.3 Vortec?

Should you ever want to make the best 4.3L Vortec performance upgrades?

Lunati 10180702K will top the list of your camshaft considerations.

It has a lobe separation of 106 degrees, which works for a 219/227 inches duration at .050’.

Its unit of rotational speed is also estimated to be at 1800-5800 rpm.

Its ability to improve the air-conditioner’s performance, smooth enabling of the stock converter, and powering of the brakes makes it a compatible enhancer for the 4.3 Vortec performance mods.

Its horsepower production, an impressive number of turns in a minute, and how it operates from low to midrange is a life-changing hydraulic.

It is simply the best 4.3 Vortec cam swap, as it gives more space beneath the curve than other varieties of camshafts, aids quicker responses from the throttle a swifter acceleration, and reduces engine pressure to enhance the truck’s efficiency.

Reviews Of the Top 05 Best Cam for 4.3 Vortec

01. Lunati 10180702k Voodoo 219/227 Hydraulic

Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (1)Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (2)

Highlighted Features

  • 1800-5800
  • Valve lift – 0.468″/0.489″
  • Lobe separation angle 112 degrees

As a 4.3 Vortec performance cam, the Lunati 10180702k is designed to accelerate the actions and reactions of the application of the throttle, brake, and the overall speed at which the Chevy 4.3L V6 engine move and navigate.

It can be described as the best camshaft for a 4.3 Vortec performance upgrade.

It also enhances the flow of the power circuit for its daily vehicular performance.

It is a high-efficiency computerized camshaft that can improve the automobile’s fuel efficiency.

It offers a reasonable amount of increase in a low number of turns in a minute performance, while it is also compatible with the majority of the OEM computer-controlled vehicles.

As a street master cam, it is designed to be compatible with pro street cars and bracket applications.

This camshaft takes advantage of the larger area beneath the curve without ruining the components of the valve train.

Although it’s tough to install by yourself, it has many benefits.

So, If you are willing to pay a mechanic to install it for you, then no problem.

You can go for it.

You won’t be disappointed with the performance, we promise.

Pros

  • Light lobe on the idle
  • Great sound
  • Plenty torque
  • Powerband

Cons

  • Tough to install

02. Comp Cams 56-450-8 Magnum

Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (3)Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (4)

Highlighted Features

  • High Energy
  • Manufacturer’s warranty
  • Enhances performance
  • A trustworthy brand
  • Comes with an instruction manual

This camshaft enhances good mileage, low-end torque works perfectly with a stock computer, and improves fuel injection.

This camshaft generates a great rotational frequency, works perfectly with the valve, and is also compatible when used with mild ratio rocker arms.

It aids automobiles with power accessories and assists street driving enthusiasts in racing.

Pros

  • Perfect for a turbo setup
  • Smooth and clean idle
  • Compatible with stock valve covers

Cons

  • Expensive

03. YRANZO E-1840-P .585/.585

Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (5)Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (6)

Highlighted Features

  • Midrange torque
  • Quality operating power range

This camshaft is a lift enhancer for the GM Chevy Pontiac.

It comes with a seat pressure of 120° when closed and 300° when opened, while its power range operates from 2,200 – 5,400 rpm.

This Camshaft enhances the engine without an active fuel management system and requires custom computer tuning for full compatibility.

Pros

  • Works perfectly with turbo
  • Makes good engine power

Cons

  • Not recommended for towing

04. DNJ CAM3205 Camshaft for 2003-2014

Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (7)Top 05 Best Cam For 4.3 Vortec [Reviews and Buying Guide] - Gretchen Bleiler (8)

Highlighted Features

  • High performance
  • Precise capability

Should anyone love to revamp their engine to top condition, this replacement camshaft with an OE-style fit will effortlessly put the automobile in high performance.

Its precision-engineered compatibility, lasting strength, and easy installation make it one of the replacement kits to consider.

Pros

  • Cheap sale
  • A wider range of compatibility
  • Easy installation
  • Durability

Cons

  • Limited warranty

05. Roller Camshaft

Highlighted Features

  • Melling camshaft
  • Elgin Hydraulic Roller lifters

This factory replacement camshaft is a compatible replacement for Chevy GMC 4.3L 1996-2002.

It allows the engine to run smoothly and sound great.

It lifts the engine’s frequency rotation to a certain rpm and improves the automobile’s overall performance.

Pros

  • Balances shaft
  • Compatible with GMC 4.3 Vortec

Cons

  • Not a performance cam

Buying Considerations

If you are willing to enhance the performance of your automobile, probably due to daily driving experiences, lesser frequenting of gas stations, or to brace yourself against inconsistent weather conditions, picking the right camshaft should be a step to consider.

The camshaft intended to be bought should be able to regulate the airflow and amount of fuel that goes into the cylinder, impacting the performance of the engine.

Camshafts comprise various lobes which shut and open the valves.

However, before picking up the best performance parts for 4.3 Vortec from any vendor’s shelf, the various levels of lift, daily workability of the engine, and compatibility with the engine type, amongst others, should be closely scrutinized.

01. Compatibility

In any attempt to replace or install the 4.3 Vortec performance mods, the first step is to ensure that the camshaft is most compatible with the engine.

This is because cams either improve or decrease the performance of an engine.

Irrespective of the airflow allowance from the cylinder head, if the valve refuses to open at the right time and for the appropriate period, the engine might be at risk.

When the lift, lobe separation angle, and duration are not matched with the true end purpose, it might lead to an over-cam, which is worse than under-camming.

When a driver does not intend to spin hard often, there shouldn’t be any reason to build a high rpm engine.

The cam should work harmoniously with the engine, as compatibility is the key to an automobile’s lasting and overall performance.

02. Preference

When choosing a camshaft, a flat tappet or roller cams are likely preferences one might have to carefully deliberate upon.

Flat tappets come with a slightly curved base and a lifter, while roller cams come in the form of a roller and with lifters.

OEMs use roller cams for their engines because it produces more mid-range and top-end power when compared with the power produced by flat tappet cams.

03. Gross Lift

Another point of consideration, when faced with getting a new camshaft, is the gross or camshaft lift.

It specifies the degree to which the valve is moved from its seat by the cam lobe.

The higher the valve is lifted from the seat, the more the unit of rotational speed is around a fixed axis.

However, there can be cases of lesser airflow if the lift of the camshaft gets too high.

This might lead to an increase in turbulence since the air will break away from the surface of the valve.

The gross lift should never be too low, as too little airflow will lead to lesser engine power.

04. Duration

The period the camshaft will keep the valve off the seat should be a consideration if a buyer is really serious about getting the best cam for 4.3 Vortec.

The degree of crank rotation, together with the period of gross lift are factors that determines the total proportion of the open valve.

The duration of these camshafts ranges from 220°-280°.

However, 280 degrees have often been exceeded on several occasions.

Rougher idle, however, occurs when there is a higher power range due to the cases of longer duration.

See also Top 10 Best Cold Air Intake For 5.3 Vortec (Reviews With Buying Guide : 2022)

A cam capable of making 240 degrees duration can produce 3000 – 7000 rpm, which might be what a buyer may have always wanted.

05. Lobe separation

This area can be found between the intake lobe points of the camshaft and the peak lift exhaust.

The lobe separation is usually measured in degrees.

The lobe separation details the intake valves’ activities to the cylinder’s exhaust valves.

Low to mid-range torque production occurs when a camshaft’s narrow lobe is present.

The narrow lobe separation often ranges from 104 -108 degrees.

However, it will also increase the cylinder pressure, reduce idle vacuum, and make the engine idle worse.

The narrowness of the separation can be as low as zero degrees.

Although this is not advised, the intake and the exhaust valves would begin to flip open and close, thus making it unable to function properly.

Furthermore, if the lobe separation is between the range of 112 – 116 degrees, there will be a reduction of pressure on the cylinder, which will make the idle vacuum very smooth and lessen the issue of overlap between the intake and exhaust valves.

A wider lobe separation will allow for a higher rpm, which can lower the torque production and narrow the engine operational region.

06. Degreeing

The last point anyone will love to consider when attempting a 4.3L Vortec performance upgrade is the process of installation.

Instead of fusing several engines and hoping for a better outcome, the camshaft should be degreed to be perfectly timed to the crankshaft.

The length of the timing chain, the bottom gear dot positioning, perfect phasing of lobes to the dowel pin, and the bottom gear key-way positioning, among others, are issues that might derail the engine off the right track if not properly calculated at the point of purchase.

The easiest way to degree the camshaft is when the engine is on an engine stand.

Feel free to follow this videoto learn how to easily degree your camshaft.

FAQs

How Does A Camshaft Work?

Since the main function of a camshaft is to reciprocate the motion of a converted rotary motion of the filter, this allows the engine to experience fuel discharge and traction through the regulated opening and closing of the exhaust valves.

The camshaft enables the piston to pass its energy to the crankshaft which receives it and transforms it into a rotary force, thus commencing rotation.

As the crankshaft is connected to the camshaft either through the belt of gear, it sends motion to the camshaft, transforming it into a reciprocating motion that puts pressure on the inlet valve to open it.

At the opening of the valve, fuel is allowed into the combustion chamber.

Friction and compression strokes create a combined air-fuel mixture that expands the chamber, forcing the piston’s downward movement.

Motion gets received again as the piston moves downward and gets collected by the camshaft.

Conclusively, as the exhaust valve’s cam receives the motion, the exhaust valve is pressed and opened.

At this point, the exhaust gasses can move out of the combustion chamber.

Can Big Cams Be Used For Vortec’s Head?

Once the sealing head is capable of 0.42 – 0.47 inches lift of cams, it can be used with the Vortec head engines, as that is the limit of cam lift for Vortec heads.

Bigger cams should not be considered because cams can be easily fixed for Vortec head engines due to the presence of combustion cylinders.

The Lunati 10180702k bare-bones hydraulic flat cam is a 4.3 Vortec camshaft capable of producing as much as 2300 quality high torque, which gives the automobile a high sound and swift racing performance.

Its high power production, together with its thunderous sound, adds life to the vehicle’s overall performance.

How Do I Know If My Camshaft Is Bad?

  • Delayed Acceleration: A camshaft can be said to be bad when acceleration is delayed. This delay often occurs due to a miscalculation or dragged reaction from the camshaft.
  • Engine Light: the engine warning light on your dashboard may be triggered if the automobile is experiencing a problem. It is advised that should the engine indicator continue blinking, the vehicle should be turned off as soon as possible and must not be moved at all. Although this light might be triggered for many reasons, a mechanic should remain the first person to contact.
  • Poor Fuel Management: When a camshaft position sensor is wearing out, it will be unable to accurately read data to the engine’s control module. This will hinder the smooth running of the automobile and cause the vehicle to consume more fuel.
  • Improper Transmission Shifting: You can know if your camshaft is wearing out when the energy transmission is being barred from shifting normally due to the error data sent to the engine control module. Once this issue occurs in some vehicles, the automobile switches into limp mode, which is a security feature that prevents the engine from being damaged.
  • Increased Emissions: The poor performance of a camshaft can cause the vehicle to experience a cloudy exhaust. This could result from the engine’s inability to burn fuel efficiently.
  • When the car doesn’t start: Although this might be due to a bad starter kick, when weak signals are sent to the engine control module due to the camshaft position sensor failure, the vehicle might be unable to start too.
  • Rough-idling Engine: A failing camshaft can cause the vehicle to idle roughly. When the engine was running and left to idle for a while before it is engaged, the idling should be smooth if the camshaft is properly functioning. The inability of the engine to idle smoothly can be sensed as a measurement misappropriation from the cylinder.
  • Stalling: The pace at which a vehicle moves could sometimes be slower than the gear selected. When this happens, it results from delivering a specific amount of fuel by the fuel injector. The reason for this can be traced to the camshaft’s performance, and a replacement should be considered.
  • Fuel Pollution: When the smell of raw fuel is noticed to be oozing from the tailpipe, it might be due to the poor performance of the camshaft. Sensitive drivers might want to take note of these simple symptoms to be able to save their automobiles before things get messy.

What Is The Most Common Reason Why Camshafts Wear Out?

Lack of proper lubrication.

For any camshaft to operate normally, it must be properly oiled.

If the increased friction caused by the rotation of the camshaft is left unaddressed, it will eventually cause the oil passages to get blocked or give room for too much clearance.

This can end up spoiling the bearings and the cam cap due to a high concentration of heat and friction which will be generated.

Therefore the portion between the pin and the roller and the lobe and the roller must be properly lubricated to reduce friction and wear components.

How Do I Reset My Camshaft Timing?

Getting the best performance cam for 4.3 Vortec is no child’s play.

Fixing it is another experience while setting its timing looks somewhat tricky too.

In short, camshaft timing is the timing of the vehicle’s engine.

It details the expulsion and intake of exhaust fumes by the camshaft.

The opening and closing of some cylinder valves at some specified period are called timing.

At the rotation of the camshaft, the lobes will put pressure on the valves, which will open up the valve.

As the camshaft rotation releases the pressure applied to the valve, the springs on the valves close them immediately.

This regulated opening and closing of the valves can be harmed by wear and tear, thus warranting the camshaft timing to be reset or adjusted to enhance and maintain the engine’s overall performance.

Step I: The first step to individually reset the camshaft timing is to read the car engine manual.

This will aid in locating the camshaft easily when the hood has been propped.

Step II: The distributor in the vehicle should be carefully loosened with the aid of a wrench.

After that, the timing mark must be determined probably with a piece of chalk to indicate the TDC (top dead center) on the harmonic balancer.

Step III: After marking, the car battery and the lead spark plug must be connected with the timing light, while the car should be started afterward.

When the car starts, the timing light on the harmonic balancer should be checked, along with the timing belt and the timing mark on it.

Step IV: The chalk mark on the cylinder can determine the camshaft timing.

The position of the top cylinder is called the top dead center, while the piston will need to be steadied at zero degrees on the rotation cycle.

However, should the cylinder not be in this position, the timing can be manually adjusted if the distributor is being moved.

Step V: After steps I-IV have been properly executed, the car engine should be shut, while the distributor should be carefully tightened with the aid of a wrench.

You can watch this video if you require more guidance to reset your camshaft timing.

Final Thought

The overall compatibility and functionality of the Lunati 10180702k voodoo make it the best cam for 4.3 Vortec.

The smooth, easy experience when the vehicle is being started, the ability for the vehicle to idle smoothly, and the superb engine sound are factors to be considered when deciding to purchase a camshaft.

We are sure you will be able to choose the suitable cam for your 4.3 Vortec engine.

FAQs

Does camming your truck add horsepower? ›

If you're wondering whether a camshaft heightens horsepower, the simple answer is yes. To ensure a high-performance stock cam increases horsepower, you'll have to make other adjustments such as swapping out the air intake, the exhaust manifold, injectors, and more we will discuss below.

What year s10 had the 4.3 Vortec? ›

Engines
YearsEnginePower
19944.3 L Vortec 4300 (L35) V-6, SCPI195 hp (145 kW; 198 PS) @ 4500 RPM
1995190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS) @ 4500 RPM
1996-2003 w/ 2WD180 hp (134 kW; 182 PS) @ 4400 RPM
1996-2003 w/ 4WD190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS) @ 4400 RPM
7 more rows

What Do camshafts Do? ›

The camshaft activates a cylinder's intake and exhaust valves. One lobe will activate the intake valve, followed by a second lobe that activates the exhaust valve. As the shaft rotates, the valves will open and close in the appropriate timing.

How much HP does a cam add to a 4.3 Vortec? ›

4.3L Vortec + 1 Cam = 42 Extra Horsepower.

Does a cam make your exhaust louder? ›

A badly balanced camshaft might cause and engine to shake, but a camshaft doesn't make the car inherently louder.

What is the average life of a 4.3 Vortec? ›

The Chevy 4.3L Vortec engine is a reliable engine that is built to last. With proper maintenance, this engine can last for many years. The average life expectancy of this engine is around 10 years or 150,000 miles. With proper care, this engine can last even longer.

What does Vortec mean on an engine? ›

Vortec is a trademarked name for a line of gasoline engines for General Motors trucks. The name first appeared in an advertisement for the 1985 model year 4.3 L V6 that used "vortex technology" to create a vortex inside the combustion chamber, creating a better air/fuel atomization.

How much horsepower does a 4.3-liter V6 Vortec engine have? ›

GM 4.3 Liter V6 Vortec LU3 Engine
Type:4.3L Gen1e V6 (LU3)
Fuel system:Sequential fuel injection
Fuel type:Regular unleaded
Horsepower hp (kW)
Chevrolet Express:195 hp (145 kW) @ 4600 RPM
45 more rows

What makes a cam high performance? ›

Performance cams typically have durations ranging from 220 up to 280 degrees or more. The longer the duration, the rougher the idle and the higher the cam's power range on the rpm scale. A cam with a duration of 240 degrees of higher will typically produce the most power from 3,500 to 7,000 rpm.

Do camshafts increase rpm? ›

Generally, cams with smaller duration numbers make peak horsepower at lower rpm. These cams are often used for stock replacement, daily driver, and towing applications. As you increase the duration, you increase the peak power the engine can make. However, you also move the power curve higher in the rpm range.

What can damage a camshaft? ›

Common Causes of Camshaft Failure
  • INSUFFICIENT LUBRICATION. Always use the camshaft moly paste that is included with your flat tappet camshaft set. ...
  • IMPROPER BREAK-IN. ...
  • REUSING OLD/WORN COMPONENTS. ...
  • MECHANICAL INTERFERENCES. ...
  • INFERIOR HARDWARE/HARDWARE NOT TORQUED TO SPEC.

How much HP does a Stage 3 cam give you? ›

Power Increase: Gains of 88 Horsepower and 28 Ft. Pounds of Torque!

How much horsepower does a BTR Stage 3 cam add? ›

The BTR Stage 3 N/A Camshaft (LS1/LS2/LS6) is the go to for people desiring an aggresive idle matched with a powerband that will stretch into the 450+ whp range around 6000 RPM when paired with quality supporting modifications.

How can I make my exhaust sound deeper and louder? ›

A cold air intake is one of the best options for getting a resonant, deep-sounding exhaust note from your vehicle. When you rev your engine and finally release the throttle, you'll hear the sound of air flowing through your intake and changing the notes of your engine to a louder, more aggressive sound.

What makes an engine lope? ›

If an engine is not getting enough fuel (this is called “running lean”), due to fuel pressure (regulated by the fuel pump and regulator), restricted fuel injectors, a vacuum leak or really anything that throws off the fuel mixture going in to the engine, this can cause the surge.

Does camming your truck make it faster? ›

Does Camming A Truck Make It Faster? In most cases, yes, but it depends on the model of the truck and which custom cam you use. With that said, aftermarket cams are designed for high-end performance, so you can typically expect to experience faster speeds after camming a truck.

How much HP does a 4.3 have? ›

4.3L V6 LV3 (this engine) 5.3L V8 L83.
...
EcoTec3 Engine Family Features.
Type:4.3L Gen V V6 VVT (LV3)
Bin 4 emissions
Returnless fuel system
Horsepower hp (kw)
Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra:285 hp (213 kw) @ 5300 RPM SAE Certified
39 more rows

When did Chevy stop making the 4.3 Vortec? ›

The original engine family was phased out in early 2014, with its final use as the 4.3 L (262 cu in) V6 engine used in Chevrolet and GMC trucks and vans.

How much horsepower is a 4.3-liter? ›

In addition to new exterior designs, a new engine -- the 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V6 -- will be available to complement V8 options. This new V6 engine produces 285 hp, 305 lb-ft of torque and a towing rating of 7,200 pounds, which GM claims is best among standard V6 truck models.

What is the most reliable Vortec engine? ›

You will be happy to know that the Silverado 4.3L V-6 engine is one of the most reliable engines on the market. It is rated as one of the best engines in the Duramax Vortec lineup. It is estimated to have a lifespan of more than 400,000 miles.

When did GM stop using Vortec engines? ›

Its introduction was in 1996, but GM's new-generation engine later supplanted it in 1999. Chevrolet makes use of small block chevy Vortec heads, entirely assembled using 1.940"/1.500" valves.

Are Vortec and LS the same? ›

What Is The Difference Between a Vortec and an LS Engine? Nothing really. Engines with the LS designation were typically set up for passenger car duty while the Vortec line was for GM's SUV and truck lines.

Which cylinder is number 1 on a 4.3 Vortec? ›

4.3L V6 Cylinder Numbers

The number one cylinder is the first one on the right when looking at the engine from the front. And the one on the opposite side is cylinder number 2.

How many cubic inches is a 4.3 liter V6? ›

The 4.3 L (262 cu in) V6 has a 4 in × 3.48 in (101.6 mm × 88.4 mm) bore and stroke, identical to the 350 cu in (5.7 L) Chevrolet V8 engine.

What GM V6 has the most horsepower? ›

The LF3 is the most powerful V6 ever from General Motors, it is also the most power-dense six-cylinder engine in the midsize luxury segment. In the CTS Vsport, the LF3 makes 420 horsepower (313 kW) and 430 lb. -ft. (583 Nm).
...
GM 3.6 Liter Twin Turbo V6 LF3 Engine.
Type:3.6L V6 Turbo
Fuel type:Premium required
Emissions controls
Evaporative system
BIN 4
53 more rows

What are the best camshafts? ›

According to our BrandZoom™ Camshafts report, based on surveys of automotive enthusiasts who have shopped for or purchased a cam, the top 3 camshaft brands that are most trusted are COMP Cams, Crower and Edelbrock (in alphabetical order). Each of these three had a 90% or higher positive perception.

Does a bigger cam need more timing? ›

The bigger the camshaft, the more it really needs part-throttle timing at low engine speeds.

What happens if cam timing is advanced? ›

Advancing or retarding a camshaft's timing from its original "zero" position causes the valve events to happen either earlier or later in the engine's cycle. A camshaft that is advanced four degrees will cause each opening and closing event to occur four degrees of rotation sooner than before.

What turns faster crank or cam? ›

Because one turn of the camshaft completes the valve operation for an entire cycle of the engine and the four-stroke-cycle engine makes two crankshaft revolutions to complete one cycle, the camshaft turns half as fast as the crankshaft.

What makes a cam lope at idle? ›

Again, keeping all else constant, more duration will make the engine less efficient at low rpm, with more overlap dilution of the induction charge, and the later intake valve closing reducing the trapping efficiency. Therefore, a long-duration cam will cause rough running at idle (lope) and a loss of low-rpm torque.

What gives a cam a choppy idle? ›

Generally its because the aftermarket camshaft (s) are lobed to change the power band of the engine. Valves may stay open longer, close quicker than the stock cam was designed for. This is why idle may sound “choppier" and run rough at idle.

Can you over cam an engine? ›

"The very worst thing you can do is over-cam an engine," Consolo says. "Lift, duration, and lobe separation angle need to be matched to the true end purpose; getting any one of those wrong can over-cam the engine, which is worse than under-camming." That's from both a power and enjoyment perspective.

How long do you break-in a camshaft for? ›

A higher engine speed for the first 20 minutes ensures plenty of oil reaches the camshaft. Another tip is to vary the engine speed throughout the initial 20-minute session to ensure that random splash oiling reaches all 16 cam lobes.

How many miles does it take to break-in a cam? ›

First, put about 50 miles on the engine and then drain the oil and swap filters. This will get rid of the majority of the metal that ended up in the oil during break-in.

What year did Chevy make the 4.3 Vortec? ›

Major design changes were made to the 4.3 L (262 cu in) V6 for the 1996 model year. Like other small block Chevrolet V8s, the 4.3 L (262 cu in) engine received redesigned heads which had improved airflow and combustion efficiency. These heads are referred to as Vortec heads.

How do you tell if my 4.3 is a Vortec? ›

engine. intake has a cover that says VORTEC you have a VIN W CPI engine. Or just look at the 8th digit in the VIN number.

What year did the 4.3 l come out? ›

The Chevrolet/GMC 4.3L V6, which first appeared in 1985, became the backbone of the automaker's small truck and SUV lines, and it would continue to evolve for the next three decades as engine controls and designs became increasingly sophisticated.

What is the rarest S10 truck? ›

Only 492 Units Of The S10 EV Were Made, And Only 60 Ever Sold. In 1996, General Motors developed a revolutionary two-seater electric car and named it EV1. Unfortunately, the car did not get a good response from the buyers and could only survive for 3 years, before it was killed.

What are common 4.3 Vortec problems? ›

The most common 4.3L V6 Vortec engine problems include:
  • Engine knocking.
  • Undue oil consumption.
  • Carbon accretion.
  • Intake manifold gasket leak.
  • Active fuel management issue.
  • Central port injection leakage/fuel injector failure.
  • TPS Sensor- and ICV problems.
  • Faulty distributor cap.

How many cubic inches is a 4.3 Vortec? ›

The 4.3 L (262 cu in) V6 has a 4 in × 3.48 in (101.6 mm × 88.4 mm) bore and stroke, identical to the 350 cu in (5.7 L) Chevrolet V8 engine.

What year did the 4.3 get a balance shaft? ›

GM started the internal balance shaft in the mid 90's (95/96).

How do I know which 4.3 engine I have? ›

Locate the GM 4.3 engine serial number on the left (remember, engines are always viewed from the rear; if the engine were in a vehicle, the left side is the driver's side) front bank under the cylinder head. Record the last two letters of the number.

What is the biggest V6 ever made? ›

The 478 touted a 5.125-inch bore and 3.86-inch stroke, which factored into the tree-stump-annihilating 442 lb-ft of torque at 1400 rpm. The Big Block six was, and remains, the largest production V-6 ever made.

What is the fastest production V6? ›

Keep that in mind when going through the following list of the fastest V6 cars ever produced, ranked according to their 0-60 mph times.
  • 9 2020 Audi S4. Via: Edmunds. ...
  • 8 2019 Mercedes-AMG C43. ...
  • 7 2021 Lotus Evora GT. ...
  • 6 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. ...
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Feb 3, 2022

What oil does a 4.3 V6 take? ›

The 4.3-liter V6 engine on this year's Silverado uses SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade motor oil.

What is a Chevy Reaper? ›

Then, it took a small break before being re-released. It's a high-powered off-road truck designed to drive fast over any terrain. The Chevy Reaper was available during those years off and helped carry on the high-powered off-road tradition.

What is the rarest Chevy? ›

The Chevrolet El Morocco is among the rarest Chevrolets ever built, with only ten produced in 1956 and 16 in 1957. The car was built in a few different body styles, including two and four-door hardtops and convertibles made of either aluminum or steel.

What year S10 was the fastest? ›

S10 Truck. 1991 GMC Syclone - fastest production truck ever made.

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