GPI LS3 Camshaft - LS SS3 with 8620 Hardened Core Upgrade - SS3-8620
The SS3 Street/Strip Powerhouse with 8620 Hardened Core Strength
The GPI LS SS3 Camshaft with 8620 Hardened Core Upgrade delivers the same brutal, track-proven power that made the SS3 the most popular street/race cam in the SS-Series - now enhanced with a premium 8620 hardened steel core for superior durability under high spring loads. Designed for LS3, LS2, and LS1 engines running 3-bolt cam hardware, this upgraded core ensures long-term reliability without altering the cam's aggressive performance profile.
The SS3 is the perfect choice for the hardcore street/strip enthusiast who wants more torque and horsepower than the SS1 and SS2, with a powerband that pulls extremely hard all the way to 6900 RPM. Track tested, developed, and proven, this cam is a staple in high-performance LS builds nationwide.
Street/Race Focused for Serious LS Builds
The SS3 is tailored for drivers running a 3600+ RPM torque converter and shines with 3.91 rear gears, which keep the engine in the heart of its powerband. It offers a perfect balance between aggressive race-capable output and usable street manners - ideal for serious weekend racers and high-performance street cars.
Track-Proven Performance You Can Count On
GPI Camshaft and Head Packages featuring the SS-Series have been dominating racetracks across the country, pushing customer Camaros and Corvettes deep into the 10-second zone. The SS3 sits at the sweet spot between streetability and full race aggression, making it a go-to choice for high-output N/A builds.
Works Exceptionally Well N/A or with Centrifugal Boost
Although engineered for naturally aspirated setups, the SS3 performs beautifully with centrifugal superchargers. Its linear power curve mirrors the power delivery characteristics of both N/A and centrifugal boosted combinations, making it a great long-term choice if you plan to add boost in the future.
Four SS-Series Variants for LS Tuners
The SS-Series includes four progressively aggressive cam profiles. The SS3 is the top-performing street/strip option before moving into the all-out N/A race-oriented SS4 cam.
Installation Requirements
As a high-lift 3-bolt LS camshaft, the SS3-8620 requires proper supporting hardware for safe operation:
- Dual .660" valve springs
- Hardened pushrods
- 3-bolt cam conversion for engines with single-bolt factory cams
- Torque Converter: 3600+ RPM recommended
- Gearing: 3.91 rear gears strongly recommended
Camshaft Specs
- Duration (Intake/Exhaust): 228 / 240
- Valve Lift (Intake/Exhaust): .646" / .637"
- LSA: 112
- ICL: +4
- RPM Range: Very strong to 6900 RPM
- Converter Requirement: 3600+ RPM
- Recommended Gearing: 3.91
Features
- Upgraded 8620 hardened core for maximum durability
- Most popular SS-Series street/strip camshaft
- More torque and horsepower than the SS1 and SS2 cams
- Pulls extremely strong to 6900 RPM
- Ideal for serious street/strip builds
- Proven track performance; developed and tested under real racing conditions
- Excellent compatibility with centrifugal superchargers
- Part of a 4-cam progression from mild street to all-out N/A race
Quick Specs
- Part Number: SS3-8620
- Engine Platforms: LS3 / LS2 / LS1
- Core Type: 8620 Hardened Steel
- Cam Type: High-lift 3-bolt
- Powerband: Up to 6900 RPM
- Converter Requirement: 3600+ RPM
- Recommended Gearing: 3.91
- Required Components: Dual .660 springs, hardened pushrods, 3-bolt conversion
FAQs
Does the 8620 hardened core change the performance of the SS3?
No. The 8620 core upgrade maintains the exact SS3 performance profile but significantly increases strength and longevity, especially under high spring pressures common in aggressive street/strip builds.
Is the SS3 streetable with the right converter?
Yes. With a 3600+ RPM converter and the recommended gearing, the SS3 is very capable on the street while delivering exceptional strip performance.
Why Buy from Beefcake Racing?
Beefcake Racing offers expert guidance, competitive pricing, and fast shipping on GPI camshafts and LS valvetrain components. Need help choosing the right SS-Series cam or supporting upgrades?
Call 1-855-827-7223 or email sales@beefcakeracing.com.
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