525HP LS3 has the ASA cam in it. Pretty big and lumpy idle cam, the GM tuning can definitely use some refinement. I tried to build an equivalent using a Comp profile but quickly found out my 0.588int/0.608exh lift wouldn't fit with the flat tops in a Vette LS3. You see all kinds of BS on the boards about big crammed LS3 motors only way a big cam will fit is if you have VVT LS or L92 truck motor with notched pistons. The ASA cam is only 0.525 lift it was designed for LS1 motor and doesn't utilize the great airflow of the LS3 rectangular port head. I ended up tearing part my 3K mile Vette dry sump LS3 and fitting a set of Mahle pistons with lighter Manley rods another $2K investment but, motor was a $4500 bargin to begin with. good side was I Craigslisted the LS3. Pistons/rods for $250. Buying a GMPP LS3 gives you the Vette flat top pistons my 228int/236exh 113LSA Comp grind had around 0.040" piston to valve clearance and no shifting of cam timing could gain anything in that department. One other thing, if you are running a factory dry sump set up I think timing chain choices are marginal at best, I'm going to work on possibly fitting a double roller chain into my motor with reworking of front cover. Everything is tight!
I would look for a take out LS7 and do a cam/dual spring swap and upgrade exhaust valves to s/s if they haven't been done already. 50+ cubic inches with a medium size cam will paint a big smile on your face and have 50rwtq+ over an LS3.
Probably won't cost much more than an LS3 with upgrades.
Brian Hobaugh SCCA National Tour June 2014
First Hemi 'Cuda Convertible Ever Built
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