Best 5.3 Afm Delete Kit With Cam – Top Picks & Guide

Does your Chevy or GMC truck feel sluggish when you need real power? Many truck owners know that feeling. The Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, while good for saving gas on the highway, often hinders performance when you want to accelerate quickly or tow heavy loads. Removing this system can unlock your engine’s true potential, but picking the right AFM delete kit *and* the perfect camshaft is where things get tricky.

Choosing the right combination can lead to headaches. You worry about compatibility, rough idling, or whether the new cam will truly deliver the horsepower you crave. It’s a big investment, and you need to get it right the first time. This guide cuts through the confusion.

We break down exactly what you need to know about the top 5.3 AFM delete kits paired with performance cams. By the end of this post, you will understand the best options for your truck’s goals, whether you seek better street manners or serious towing muscle. Let’s dive in and transform your engine’s performance!

Top 5.3 Afm Delete Kit With Cam Recommendations

No. 1
BTSCAR 5.3L AFM/DOD Cam Kit with Lifters, Thrust plate, Head Gasket Set for 2007-2013 Chevy Avalanche Silverado 1500 Tahoe Trailblazer Ext GMC Sierra SUV/Truck 9-7X V8 16 Valves
  • 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
No. 2
BTSCAR AFM/DOD 5.3 Camshaft Kit Fits for 2007-2013 Chevy Silverado 1500 Tahoe GMC Envoy Sierra Buick Isuzu V8 16 Valves with Head Gasket Oil Pump & Timing Chain
  • 🚗【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
No. 3
BTSCAR L83 AFM DOD 5.3 Camshaft Kit with Head Gasket Set, Fit for 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado Suburban Tahoe GMC Sierra Yukon Gen V #12499225 ES73121
  • 【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
No. 4
NON AFM DOD Disable Kit 5.3L with Camshaft, Lifters, Head Gasket Set & Bolts, Fit for 2007-2013 Chevy Silverado/Tahoe/Avalanche, GMC Sierra/Yukon 5.3L V8 Truck SUV
  • 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
No. 5
SUSUCAR Non AFM DOD Disable Kit with Camshaft, Lifters and 5.3 Head Gasket Set for 2007-2013 Chevy Silverado Tahoe GMC Sierra 5.3L Truck SUV
  • 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
No. 6
2014-2021 5.3 NON AFM DOD Disable Camshaft Lifter Kit & Head Gasket Set Fit For Chevrolet Silverado Suburban Tahoe GMC Sierra Yukon 5.3L HS26744PT L2281 12698945 MC1423 MC1429
  • 🚗 [FITMENT PART 1] Fit For Chevy: For Chevy Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 2014-2021; For Chevy Silverado 1500 LTD 5.3L V8 2022; For Chevy Suburban 5.3L V8 2015-2020; For Chevy Tahoe 5.3L V8 2015-2020
  • 🚗 [FITMENT PART 2] Fit For GMC: For GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 2014-2021; For GMC Sierra 1500 LTD 5.3L V8 2019-2022; For GMC Yukon 5.3L V8 2015-2020; For GMC Yukon XL 5.3L V8 2015-2020
  • 📦 [Main Parts Include] 1 x Camshaft; 2 x Cylinder Head Gasket; 1 x Cylinder Block Valley Cover Gasket; 22 x Bolt; 2 x Valve Cover Gasket; 8 x Intake Manifold Gasket; 2 x Exhaust Manifold Gasket; 16 x Valve Stem Seal; 16 x Valve Lifter 4 x Valve Lifter Guide Other Gasket
  • 🔧 [Replace Part Number] Camshaft:12619823, SKMC1423, MC1423, ES5438, MC1429; Cylinder Head Gasket Set:C325HSD,AHS13051,0914532,HS26744PT,HS54996; Cylinder Head Gasket:54996,AHG1351, 729141,043440,611078000; Cylinder Head Bolt:11611976,11546959, ES73121,GS33938; Valve Cover Gasket:12619787, 448410, AVC1351, VS50907R, 151118001; Intake Manifold Gasket:12626354,449780,AMS13510; Exhaust Manifold Gasket:111082602, 77056300,AMS13512 ; Valve Stem Seal:3890045,448430,876100,876110,AVS3072; Valve Lifter: L2281,JB2079,HT2148AB,12698945; Valve Lifter Guide:12595365
  • 🏆 [Customer Satisfaction and Support] 1-YEAR WARRANTY: Your purchase includes comprehensive protection against manufacturing defects in all engine rebuild kit components for 12 months from the date of purchase. If any part fails due to workmanship or material issues under normal use, we provide free replacement of defective components. Enjoy an easy claims process—simply contact Amazon Customer Service or reach out via the Amazon Buyer-Seller Messaging System for prompt assistance with no complicated procedures. We prioritize product reliability and your satisfaction, so you can shop with confidence knowing your purchase is protected.
No. 7
5.3 Non AFM DOD Camshaft Lifter Kit & Head Gasket Set Fit for Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Suburban Tahoe GMC Sierra 1500 Limited Yukon XL 5.3L 2014-2020 MC1429 MC1423 12569256 HS26744PT
  • Fitment: Fit For Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 2014-2019 Fit For Chevrolet Suburban 5.3L V8 2015-2020 Fit For Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L V8 2015-2020 Fit For Gmc Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 2014-2018 Fit For Gmc Sierra 1500 Limited 5.3L V8 2019 Fit For Gmc Yukon 5.3L V8 2015-2020 Fit For Gmc Yukon Xl 5.3L V8 2015-2020
  • Main Parts Include: 1 x Camshaft; 2 x Cylinder Head Gasket; 1 x Cylinder Block Valley Cover Gasket; 22 x Bolt; 2 x Valve Cover Gasket; 8 x Intake Manifold Gasket; 2 x Exhaust Manifold Gasket; 16 x Valve Stem Seal; 16x NON AFM Valve Lifter; 4 x Valve Lifter Guide; Other Gasket
  • Replace Part Number: Camshaft:12619823,SKMC1423,MC1423,ES5438,MC1429; Cylinder Head Gasket Set:C325HSD,AHS13051,0914532,HS26744PT,HS54996; Cylinder Head Gasket:54996,AHG1351, 729141,043440,611078000; Cylinder Head Bolt:11611976,11546959, ES73121,GS33938; Valve Cover Gasket:12619787, 448410, AVC1351, VS50907R, 151118001; Intake Manifold Gasket:12626354,449780,AMS13510; Exhaust Manifold Gasket:111082602, 77056300,AMS13512; Valve Stem Seal:3890045,448430,876100,876110,AVS3072; Valve Lifter: 17122490, 17120735, 12499225, 12576400, 12698945; Valve Lifter Guide: 12595365
  • Notice: Please double check the part number / model / make / year carefully before purchasing to insure fitment. Any question, feel free to contact us at any time
  • Customer Service: 1 Year.
No. 8
Gen V L83 Engine NON AFM/DOD Disable Camshaft Lifter Kit with Head Gasket Set Timing Chain Kit Fit for Chevrolet SILVERADO 1500 5.3L V8 2014-2020 Replacement HS26744PT 12499225
  • ✅【 Precise Fit For Your GM 5.3L Truck/SUV】 Fit For GMC Yukon 5.3L V8 2015-2020 Fit For GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 2014-2018 Fit For GMC Sierra 1500 Limited 5.3L V8 2019 Fit For Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L V8 2015-2020 Fit For Chevrolet Suburban 5.3L V8 2015-2020 Fit For Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 2014-2019 This L83 Camshaft Kit Is Engineered Specifically For The Gen V 5.3L Engine
  • 🔧【 OE Part Numbers】 Head Bolt:ES73121; Camshaft:12619823; Harmonic Balancer Bolt:11547372 Head Gasket:12622325; Head Gasket Set:HS26744PT,12700996; Timing Chain Kit:76291V ; Timing (VVT) Solenoid:12681018; Timing Chain:12646386,12586482; Timing Chain Tensioner:12630107; Camshaft Seal:12589016; Crankshaft Sprocket:12713934; Timing (VVT) Sprocket:12623368; NON-AFM Valve Lifter:17122490,12499225; Valve Lifter Guide:12595365
  • ⚙️【 Complete All-In-One Package Contents】 Your Kit Includes 1x Camshaft (12619823), 1x NON-AFM Lifter Kit, 1x Complete Head Gasket Set, 1x Timing Chain Kit With VVT Gear Set, 1x Valve Stem Oil Seal Set, And 1x Head Bolt Set. Everything Needed For A Professional-Grade DOD Elimination And Timing System Overhaul In One Box
  • 🚗【 Permanent Non-AFM/DOD Delete For The 5.3L】This Is The Ultimate 5.3 Non-AFM DOD Camshaft Kit With Lifters And Head Gasket Set Designed To Permanently Eliminate The Failure-Prone Active Fuel Management System. Specifically For The GM 5.3L L83 Engine, It Prevents Costly Lifter Collapse, Restoring Durability And Peace Of Mind To Your Chevy Or GMC Truck Or SUV
  • 🛡️ 【Full Timing Chain & Gasket System Refresh】Solve Common L83 Timing Chain Stretch And Rattle With Our Complete 5.3 Timing Chain Kit VVT. Paired With A New Head Gasket Set, This Comprehensive Overhaul Restores Optimal Engine Compression, Quiet Operation, And Reliable Performance For Models Including The 2017 GMC Sierra And 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Upgrading Your 5.3L AFM Engine

If you own a GM truck or SUV with the popular 5.3L V8 engine, you might be familiar with Active Fuel Management (AFM). AFM shuts down cylinders to save gas. However, many owners choose to delete this system. A 5.3 AFM Delete Kit with Cam is a popular upgrade. This guide helps you choose the right kit.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for an AFM delete kit, look for specific parts that make the swap successful and reliable.

  • **AFM Delete Controller/Lifter Trays:** This is the core of the kit. It stops the engine computer from trying to run the AFM system. Make sure the kit includes hardware to replace the faulty AFM lifters.
  • **Camshaft (The “With Cam” Part):** A good delete kit usually includes a performance camshaft. This cam must be designed to work with the non-AFM lifters. Look for a cam that matches your driving style (towing, daily driving, or performance).
  • **Necessary Gaskets and Seals:** A quality kit includes everything needed for installation. You do not want to start the job only to find you are missing a simple valve cover gasket.
Important Materials

The materials used in the components affect how long they last.

The **lifters** are crucial. Standard, high-quality replacement lifters are much stronger than the original AFM lifters. Look for kits that use **billet steel** components where possible. Billet parts are stronger than cast parts. The **camshaft** should be made from strong, heat-treated steel. This helps it handle the extra stress from the performance grind profile.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality matters a lot for long-term engine health.

What improves quality? A kit that includes a **high-quality DOD (Displacement on Demand) delete block-off plate** ensures no oil leaks from the removed solenoids. Also, kits that come with detailed, easy-to-follow instructions improve the overall experience.

What reduces quality? Using very cheap, unbranded lifters significantly reduces quality. If the replacement cam profile is too aggressive for your stock valve springs, it can cause valve float—which damages the engine. Always check compatibility between the cam and the springs.

User Experience and Use Cases

Why do people install these kits? The user experience changes significantly after installation.

The primary goal is **reliability**. Deleting AFM removes a common failure point in the 5.3L engine. You stop worrying about lifter failure or excessive oil consumption related to the system.

The second use case is **performance**. The new camshaft changes how the engine breathes. For a daily driver, you want a cam that adds horsepower without causing a rough idle. For a truck used for towing, you need torque across the mid-range RPMs. Always match the cam grind to your intended use.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 5.3 AFM Delete Kits with Cam

Q: Does this kit improve gas mileage?

A: Generally, no. You lose the cylinder deactivation feature, so gas mileage might slightly decrease. The trade-off is better reliability and more power.

Q: Will my truck still pass emissions testing?

A: Yes, usually. You must have the Engine Control Unit (ECU) professionally tuned after installation. The tuner will turn off the AFM codes so the check engine light stays off.

Q: How long does the installation take?

A: For an experienced mechanic, it takes about a full day (8-10 hours). If you are doing it yourself, plan for two full days, as you must remove the cylinder heads to swap the lifters and cam.

Q: Do I need to buy new cylinder head bolts?

A: Yes, almost always. GM recommends using new Torque-to-Yield (TTY) head bolts when reinstalling the heads. Reusing old bolts can lead to future head gasket leaks.

Q: What is the difference between this kit and just deleting the AFM solenoids?

A: Deleting only the solenoids leaves the weak AFM lifters inside the engine. They can still fail. A full kit replaces those weak lifters with strong, standard ones, solving the root problem.

Q: Can I use my stock torque converter with a new cam?

A: For mild cams, yes, you can reuse the stock converter. If the cam is very aggressive and adds a lot of power, a higher stall torque converter is recommended for better performance when starting from a stop.

Q: What is the most important thing to tune after installing the cam?

A: The timing tables and fuel maps are most important. The new cam changes how air enters and leaves the engine, so the computer needs new instructions to run smoothly.

Q: Are these kits compatible with forced induction (superchargers/turbos)?

A: Some kits are, but you must choose a cam specifically designed for boosted applications. A standard delete cam might not work well with a supercharger.

Q: Does this delete kit affect oil pressure?

A: No. The deletion process generally does not affect the oil pump. However, ensure you use the correct viscosity oil recommended for your specific new cam manufacturer.

Q: What RPM range is best for the new cam?

A: This depends entirely on the cam you select. Daily drivers usually have a flat power band (good power from 2,000 to 5,800 RPM). Towing cams focus power lower down.