Tuning out afm and cam swap question

[dross99_si]

This.

Something else to consider: For example, in my case, I don't wanna dump $1,500 into a 200K-mile 5.3. Sure, it runs strong, doesn't smoke, etc., But still. For around $2,000, I can get a LY6 or maybe even L9H and swap it in just as easily (probably more easily, actually) and have more power with OEM reliability and no wonky lifters.

So a L9H would swap into a 2007 Tahoe LT with minimal other modifications?

 

[iamdub]

So a L9H would swap into a 2007 Tahoe LT with minimal other modifications?

I believe it will be mostly. You'd have to disable the VVT on the motor for one thing.

 

[swathdiver]

I believe it will be mostly. You'd have to disable the VVT on the motor for one thing.

Or use the ECM and wiring harness from the donor to retain VVT.

 

[dross99_si]

So either delete the physical parts with a VVT delete kit or use the L9H harness and retain VVT. With the proper ECU flash of course.
I think the other factor is the MAP sensor correct? If retaining recipient vehicle harness should I use the 5.3 MAP? Any other sensors that need special attention?
Are most of the accessories, oil pan and odds & ends interchangeable between the 5.3 and 6.2?
This swap need it's own sticky thread, lol

 

[delightskinned1]

I have a 2011 Tahoe, and after reading here, I'm getting so!d on the idea of a AFM delete, cam and lifter replacement. Can someone give me a rough estimate as to how much it cost? Also, any ideas where to get it done in the DC area?

Im in the DC area as well and thinking about a mild cam too... so if you get info on a good shop locally def would appreciate the info.

 

[jlee]

This.

Something else to consider: For example, in my case, I don't wanna dump $1,500 into a 200K-mile 5.3. Sure, it runs strong, doesn't smoke, etc., But still. For around $2,000, I can get a LY6 or maybe even L9H and swap it in just as easily (probably more easily, actually) and have more power with OEM reliability and no wonky lifters.

After my dad had to replace his 07 6.2L at around 150k, I've begun to wonder if this isn't the best long term approach. Is the general consensus around here that the non-AFM 6.2L is as reliable as the 6.0L and 5.3L that run 300k or more in the NBS trucks?

 

[swathdiver]

After my dad had to replace his 07 6.2L at around 150k, I've begun to wonder if this isn't the best long term approach. Is the general consensus around here that the non-AFM 6.2L is as reliable as the 6.0L and 5.3L that run 300k or more in the NBS trucks?

Yep. The latest AFM parts are quite reliable too.

 

[iamdub]

Or use the ECM and wiring harness from the donor to retain VVT.

Do you know if the harnesses are essentially identical other than the circuit for the VVT? I'm wondering if the donor harness is a direct swap with just that one extra circuit for the cam phaser. Or, if there are other differences (relocated sesnor(s), extra or deleted sensor(s), etc.), could I cut just the VVT wires from the donor truck harness and add them to my existing harness, pin them in the PCM plug and have a VVT-equipped program flashed to the PCM? I have nothing against VVT, but AFM can go suck an egg.

 

[iamdub]

After my dad had to replace his 07 6.2L at around 150k, I've begun to wonder if this isn't the best long term approach. Is the general consensus around here that the non-AFM 6.2L is as reliable as the 6.0L and 5.3L that run 300k or more in the NBS trucks?

Pretty much. It's the same motor but with a few small improvements (namely a 58X reluctor for more accurate fuel and ignition timing) that lost it's reliability status only from the advent of AFM.

The latest AFM parts are quite reliable too.

This may be so. But if I'm into a motor that deep or have a replacement on a stand, I'm gonna delete AFM altogether and know for sure it'll never be a problem rather than "upgrade" the AFM components with the latest design and still just have to hope for the best.

 

[swathdiver]

Do you know if the harnesses are essentially identical other than the circuit for the VVT? I'm wondering if the donor harness is a direct swap with just that one extra circuit for the cam phaser. Or, if there are other differences (relocated sesnor(s), extra or deleted sensor(s), etc.), could I cut just the VVT wires from the donor truck harness and add them to my existing harness, pin them in the PCM plug and have a VVT-equipped program flashed to the PCM? I have nothing against VVT, but AFM can go suck an egg.

I have read over on the Performance Trucks forum of guys adding the VVT wiring to their older harnesses but I think they used the donor's computer; not 100% sure anymore.

VVT does more for gas mileage than AFM or even the 6-speed. My 2006 Pontiac Montana had a 240 horsepower V6 with VVT and that thing got 23 mpg @ 77 mph and 21 mpg @ 90 mph and 21 mph @ 72 mph. This was essentially the same mileage as the older engine which made 180 horsepower and did not have VVT. However, the 2004 got its best mileage at 72 mph whereas the other one was more efficient a higher speeds.

 

[iamdub]

I have read over on the Performance Trucks forum of guys adding the VVT wiring to their older harnesses but I think they used the donor's computer; not 100% sure anymore.

VVT does more for gas mileage than AFM or even the 6-speed. My 2006 Pontiac Montana had a 240 horsepower V6 with VVT and that thing got 23 mpg @ 77 mph and 21 mpg @ 90 mph and 21 mph @ 72 mph. This was essentially the same mileage as the older engine which made 180 horsepower and did not have VVT. However, the 2004 got its best mileage at 72 mph whereas the other one was more efficient a higher speeds.

I never considered improved mileage from VVT. I've just focused on the flatter power curve. I'll dig around on PT for the conversion info. Thank you.

 

[swathdiver]

I never considered improved mileage from VVT. I've just focused on the flatter power curve. I'll dig around on PT for the conversion info. Thank you.

Me neither until I was making a chart of the mileage of the various years and noticed when the mileage increased. The 2WD '07-'08 Tahoes were rated for 14/20 and with 4WD 14/19. In 2009 both drives were rated for 14/20 which was the first year of the 6-speed. VVT was introduced in 2010 and used throughout and both drives were now rated for 15/21.

Power wise, VVT brought peak horsepower up 200 rpms and lowered peak torque 200-400 rpms depending on the model without VVT.

Your 2008s LMG = 320 HP @ 5200 / 340 TQ @ 4200
My 2009s LC9 = 310 HP @ 5200 / 335 TQ @ 4400

But both motors from 2010-2014 now make = 320 HP @ 5400 / 335 TQ @ 4000

These are SUV numbers, the pickups were slightly different, must be programming, as they are all mechanically identical.

 

[tst1212]

My 2011 Z71 has 40K miles, do I really need to switch out the cam and lifters or could I just do the afm delete and wait? At the rate I'm going +100K will take me another decade.

 

[swathdiver]

My 2011 Z71 has 40K miles, do I really need to switch out the cam and lifters or could I just do the afm delete and wait? At the rate I'm going +100K will take me another decade.

Sometime in 2011 newer, more reliable AFM parts were introduced. Most guys "turn it off" rather than physically delete it. Keeping clean oil in the motor goes a long way towards longevity. Consider limiting your oil changes to 5000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first.

 

[tst1212]

Sometime in 2011 newer, more reliable AFM parts were introduced. Most guys "turn it off" rather than physically delete it. Keeping clean oil in the motor goes a long way towards longevity. Consider limiting your oil changes to 5000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first.

Thanks, will do.

 

[sfc_jones]

I am going to finish my project by going to either a whipple or pro charger. add 45 injectors, long tube headers, 4l80 Tranny. So far I have replaced the oil pump, did the DOD/AFM delete, Added a Low Lift Cam. And used ARP Bolts. My Goal is 450 HP at the wheels.

 

[sfc_jones]

My Engine Builder told me that if you tune out the AFM you still have the parts to fail and at 240k miles on my Tahoe I didn't want any issues.
On my wifes 2010 Suburban I am going to do a AFM Delete with LS& Lifters and a LS7 Cam and replace the oil pump while I am in it. I might as well use ARP Bolts as well.

 

[swathdiver]

A 427s cam in a 325? That'll surely move the powerband up real high and kill the low end needed to get her moving.

 

[sfc_jones]

A 427s cam in a 325? That'll surely move the powerband up real high and kill the low end needed to get her moving.

IIRC a LS7 cam has the same values as a stock 5.3 Cam. the difference is the LS7 never had AFM.

 

[swathdiver]

IIRC a LS7 cam has the same values as a stock 5.3 Cam. the difference is the LS7 never had AFM.

LS7: 12638426 - 211-230 .593-.589 120.5
LMG: 12625436 - 196-201 .481-.481 116
LMG: 12593207 - 193-193 .482-.482 116

And of course what we don't see with cam specs is the shape of the lobe which is just as important for determining the motor's manners. There's a guy over on Performance Trucks yanking the cam out of his LQ4, it is smaller than the LS7 and it killed his torque and horsepower. It's better to go too small than too big.