Upgrading your camshaft is a surefire way to unlock more power, but the gear that drives it is just as critical. Whether you are building a high-revving LS, tuning a Subaru boxer, or restoring a classic Toyota, the right cam gear ensures precise timing and durability.
This guide reviews the top cam gears on the market, from conversion kits and sprockets to specialty tools and rebuild kits. We break down each product’s features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed choice for your specific engine project.
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Michigan Motorsports 1-Bolt to 3-Bolt LS Cam Gear Conversion Kit – Fits 58X…
Best forGen IV LS cam swaps
- Converts to 3-bolt design
- Includes ARP bolts
ConsiderOnly for 58X engines
Michigan Motorsports 1-Bolt to 3-Bolt Cam Gear Conversion Kit with Timing C…
Best forComplete LS timing upgrade
- Includes timing chain
- Fits many LS engines
ConsiderMay be overkill for stock builds
Michigan Motorsports Four Pole 58X 3-Bolt Cam Gear Sprocket | Fits 4.8L 5.3…
Best forOEM-style replacement sprocket
- Direct OEM replacement
- Four-pole signal accuracy
ConsiderNo bolts included
AULINK 12586481 Four Pole 58X 3-Bolt Engine Timing Camshaft Sprocket Gear
Best forBudget-friendly OEM replacement
- Cross-references multiple OEM parts
- Heat-treated for durability
ConsiderFitment list may be incomplete
Cam Gear Lock Camlock Tool Compatible with DOHC Subaru WRX STi FXT, LGT OBX…
Best forSubaru timing belt service
- Prevents cam rotation
- Fits multiple Subaru engines
ConsiderOnly for left side
Cam Gear Rebuild Kit For Toyota Supra Lexus GS300 IS300 SC300 2JZ 1JZ VVTI
Best for2JZ and 1JZ VVTi cam gear refresh
- Includes Viton O-ring
- Fits popular Toyota/Lexus models
ConsiderOnly for VVTi gears
360294 Cam Gear Kit for Pentair Rebel and Kreepy Krauly Warrior 2018 and Ea…
Best forPentair pool cleaner repair
- Direct replacement part
- Easy to identify
ConsiderOnly for specific models
1 Bolt to 3 Bolt Cam Gear Conversion Kit for LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 L99 LS4 LS9 LS…
Best forLS performance cam upgrade
- Includes dampener and bolts
- Fits multiple LS engines
ConsiderNo timing chain included
Skunk2 Racing 304-05-5220 Pro Series Cam Gear Set Black – Honda/Acura H22/F20B
Best forHonda H22/F20B cam tuning
- Lightweight billet aluminum
- Adjustable +/- 10 degrees
ConsiderOnly for specific engines
Nite Ize CamJam Cord Tightener – Adjustable Rope System for Camping & Hikin…
Best forCamping and hiking gear
- Knot-free tightening
- Durable carabiner clip
ConsiderNot for heavy loads
Michigan Motorsports 1-Bolt to 3-Bolt LS Cam Gear Conversion Kit – Strong Upgrade
Brand: Michigan Motorsports
A solid conversion kit for LS owners wanting 3-bolt cam flexibility.
If you own a Gen IV LS engine with a 58X reluctor wheel, this conversion kit from Michigan Motorsports is a game-changer. It lets you swap your factory 1-bolt cam gear for a robust 3-bolt design, opening up a wider selection of aftermarket camshafts. The included hardened 3-bolt sprocket is precision-machined for improved strength over the stock setup, and the three ARP 12-point bolts provide reliable torque retention even under high-rpm stress.
Compatibility is broad, covering LS2, LS3, L99, L76, L92, and L77 engines. The kit is straightforward to install, and the quality of the ARP hardware gives you confidence in your build. If you are planning a cam swap and want to avoid the hassle of drilling your existing gear, this kit is a smart investment.
- Converts to 3-bolt design
- Includes ARP bolts
- Broad LS compatibility
- Only for 58X engines
- No timing chain included
Michigan Motorsports 1-Bolt to 3-Bolt Cam Gear Kit with Timing Chain – Complete Solution
Brand: Michigan Motorsports
A comprehensive kit that simplifies your cam gear upgrade.
This kit from Michigan Motorsports takes the conversion a step further by bundling a premium timing chain with the 3-bolt cam gear. It is designed for a wide range of Gen III and Gen IV LS engines, including LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, L99, LS4, LS9, LSA, and LQ4. The precision-machined sprocket and durable chain offer OEM-level fitment, ensuring reliable valve timing for both street and performance applications.
- Includes timing chain
- Fits many LS engines
- OEM-level fitment
- May be overkill for stock builds
- Installation requires care
Michigan Motorsports Four Pole 58X 3-Bolt Cam Gear Sprocket – Direct Replacement
Brand: Michigan Motorsports
A reliable, factory-equivalent cam gear for Gen IV LS engines.
This sprocket from Michigan Motorsports is a direct replacement for GM part #12586481, making it a perfect fit for LS2, LS3, and other Gen IV engines with a 58X crank reluctor. The four-pole design ensures accurate camshaft signal pickup, which is critical for proper fuel and spark timing. Constructed from high-strength materials, it is built to handle the demands of performance driving.
- Direct OEM replacement
- Four-pole signal accuracy
- Durable construction
- No bolts included
- Limited to 58X engines
AULINK 12586481 Four Pole 58X 3-Bolt Camshaft Sprocket – Affordable OEM Fit
AULINK offers this timing camshaft sprocket as an aftermarket alternative to the GM part, with cross-references to several OEM numbers. It fits a range of GM vehicles, including Cadillac CTS and Escalade, Chevrolet Avalanche and Camaro, and more. The gear undergoes precision machining and heat treatment to enhance hardness and wear resistance, promising longevity.
- Cross-references multiple OEM parts
- Heat-treated for durability
- Precision machining
- Fitment list may be incomplete
- No hardware included
Mekar Cam Gear Lock Tool for Subaru WRX STi – Essential Timing Tool
If you are working on a Subaru with a DOHC turbo engine, this cam gear lock tool from Mekar is indispensable. It locks the left-hand side cam sprockets when the timing belt is removed, preventing them from spinning and eliminating the risk of valve damage. Compatible with EJ205, EJ207, EJ255, and EJ257 engines, it covers WRX, STI, Forester XT, and Legacy GT models.
- Prevents cam rotation
- Fits multiple Subaru engines
- Rust-resistant steel
- Only for left side
- Not for non-turbo models
Jetuplusllc Cam Gear Rebuild Kit for 2JZ 1JZ VVTi – Refresh Your Timing
This rebuild kit from Jetuplusllc is designed specifically for the intake timing cam gear on 2JZ and 1JZ VVTi engines, commonly found in Toyota Supra, Lexus GS300, IS300, and SC300. The package includes a high-quality Viton O-ring and a cap seal washer, both essential for preventing oil leaks and maintaining proper cam gear operation.
- Includes Viton O-ring
- Fits popular Toyota/Lexus models
- Simple replacement parts
- Only for VVTi gears
- No gear included
Generic 360294 Cam Gear Kit for Pentair Pool Cleaners – Keep Your Pool Sweep Moving
Brand: Generic
A straightforward fix for your pool cleaner's steering mechanism.
This cam gear kit is a direct replacement for the 360294 part used in Pentair Rebel and Kreepy Krauly Warrior pool cleaners made in 2018 or earlier. The white gear is easy to identify when worn, and replacing it restores the cleaner’s ability to rotate and change direction. It is a simple, cost-effective fix to keep your pool sweep working efficiently.
- Direct replacement part
- Easy to identify
- Restores rotation function
- Only for specific models
- No installation instructions
Dynosty 1 Bolt to 3 Bolt Cam Gear Conversion Kit – Performance Bundle
Dynosty offers a complete conversion kit that includes a 3-bolt 4-pole cam gear (similar to 12586481), a timing chain dampener (like 12588670), and an ARP cam bolt kit. This bundle is designed for LS engines ranging from 4.8L to 6.0L, covering popular platforms like LS1, LS2, LS3, and more. The inclusion of the dampener adds extra stability to your timing system.
- Includes dampener and bolts
- Fits multiple LS engines
- Complete kit
- No timing chain included
- Brand less known than OEM
Skunk2 Racing Pro Series Cam Gear Set – Precision for Honda H22
Brand: Skunk2 Racing
A high-quality adjustable cam gear for Honda enthusiasts.
Skunk2 Racing’s Pro Series cam gear set is crafted from 7075-T6 billet aluminum, making it 35 percent lighter than the OEM unit. It offers an adjustable range of +/- 10 degrees, with laser-etched marks for precise camshaft timing adjustments. This set is designed for Honda/Acura H22 and F20B engines, giving you the flexibility to tune your cam timing for optimal performance.
- Lightweight billet aluminum
- Adjustable +/- 10 degrees
- Laser-etched marks
- Only for specific engines
- May require tuning expertise
Nite Ize CamJam Cord Tightener – Versatile Gear for Camping
The Nite Ize CamJam Cord Tightener is not for engine cams, but it is a brilliant tool for securing your camping and hiking gear. Its cam-locking mechanism provides a knot-free connection for ropes from 1/16 to 3/16 inches, and the carabiner clip easily attaches to hooks or D-rings. You can use it in a closed-loop or fixed-end system, making it perfect for tarps, hammocks, or tying down equipment.
- Knot-free tightening
- Durable carabiner clip
- Two setup options
- Not for heavy loads
- Limited rope size range
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right cam gear involves more than just picking a part. Consider your engine type, the gear’s material, and whether you need adjustability. This guide highlights key factors to help you select the best cam gear for your specific needs.
- Engine Compatibility: Ensure the cam gear matches your engine's reluctor wheel type (e.g., 58X) and bolt pattern (1-bolt vs 3-bolt). Check the manufacturer's fitment list to avoid compatibility issues.
- Material and Build Quality: Look for gears made from hardened steel or billet aluminum for durability. Precision machining and heat treatment enhance wear resistance, crucial for high-performance applications.
- Adjustability: If you plan to fine-tune valve timing, choose an adjustable cam gear with a range like +/- 10 degrees. Laser-etched marks make adjustments easier and more accurate.
- Included Components: Some kits include bolts, timing chains, or dampeners, which can save you time and ensure proper fitment. Consider whether you need a complete set or just the gear itself.
- Intended Use: Decide if the gear is for a performance build, a direct OEM replacement, or a specific repair. Specialty tools like cam locks are essential for certain engines, so match the product to your task.
Conclusion
From LS conversion kits to Subaru timing tools and even pool cleaner gears, the right cam gear ensures your engine runs smoothly and reliably. Whether you are upgrading for performance or replacing a worn part, the products reviewed here cover a wide range of applications.
For most LS builders, the Michigan Motorsports kits offer excellent value and compatibility. If you own a Subaru, the Mekar lock tool is a must-have. And for outdoor enthusiasts, the Nite Ize CamJam is a versatile addition to your gear. Choose based on your engine and goals, and you will be set.
Erica Steven is the founder and lead writer of WorstBrands, a site dedicated to providing honest and trustworthy reviews about outdoor gear and fashion products.
With a passion for exploring the great outdoors and staying up to date on the latest fashion trends, Erica uses her expertise to provide valuable insights into the products that matter most to her readers.
Whether you're looking for camping equipment or the latest fashion accessories, Erica's articles are the perfect resource for finding the best products that fit your lifestyle.