Stage 3 Cam 5.7 Hemi: AMS Racing Stage 3 VVT Low Review – Worth It?

If you want more power from your Mopar but dread a full valvetrain teardown, finding the right stage 3 cam 5.7 hemi upgrade is crucial. I’ve spent a lot of time looking at cams that promise performance without the headache, and the AMS Racing Stage 3 VVT Low stands out.

In my research, this kit represents a sweet spot for 2009+ Hemi owners who want that aggressive lope and mid-to-high-end power without the labor-intensive spring swaps required by traditional Stage 3 cams. It’s an efficient, billet-steel solution for modern street performance and heavy-duty applications.

Section 1: Overview of the AMS Racing Stage 3 VVT Low Camshaft

The AMS Racing Stage 3 VVT Low is a unique beast in the Mopar world. Usually, a “Stage 3” designation implies high lift and high maintenance, but this unit focuses on duration and profile rather than extreme valve lift. I found that this approach targets the meat of the powerband, specifically between 1700 and 6500 RPM. This makes it a stellar choice for heavier vehicles like the RAM 1500 or Jeep Grand Cherokee, as well as daily-driven Challengers and Chargers that need to maintain drivability while gaining a significant performance edge.

Section 2: Technical Specifications and Key Features

No Springs Required (NSR) Design

The biggest draw of this stage 3 cam 5.7 hemi is that it is engineered to work with stock valve springs. I appreciate how this slashes installation time and reduces the total cost of the project by eliminating the need for expensive aftermarket springs and the specialized tools required to swap them.

Billet Steel Construction

Durability is paramount when you are pushing higher RPMs. This camshaft is ground from a solid billet steel core rather than a cast core. In my testing of similar components, billet steel provides significantly better strength and longevity, ensuring the lobes hold up under the stress of spirited driving.

Optimized Powerband and Sound

With specs of 210/226 duration and a 115 LSA, this cam delivers impressive mid-to-upper range horsepower. It transforms the engine’s character, providing a noticeable idle sound that lets everyone know you aren’t running a stock setup, while the .52X” lift keeps everything safe for the factory valvetrain.

Versatile Application

Whether you are running a naturally aspirated setup with simple bolt-ons or planning a supercharger build later, this cam fits. I’ve found it to be a flexible foundation for various builds, particularly for those who want a “set it and forget it” valvetrain configuration.

Section 3: The Pros and Cons of a Low Lift Cam Setup

Every performance modification involves trade-offs. While I love the simplicity of this stage 3 cam 5.7 hemi, it is important to be honest about the additional requirements like MDS removal and custom tuning that are necessary to get the best results.

• ✅ No valve spring change required, saving hours of labor and significant money.
• ✅ Billet steel core offers superior strength compared to cast alternatives.
• ✅ Delivers a noticeable, aggressive “chop” at idle.
• ✅ Excellent power gains for heavier vehicles that need low-to-mid range torque.
• ✅ Compatible with both N/A and forced induction (supercharged) setups.
• ✅ Very competitive price point at $489.99 for a high-quality billet cam.

• ❌ Requires a full MDS delete and a phaser limiter, which adds to the initial parts list.
• ❌ A custom tune and a larger torque converter (stall) are mandatory for proper drivability.
• ❌ The “Low Lift” profile limits absolute peak power compared to “High Lift” Stage 3 cams.

Performance Gains and RPM Power Range Analysis

The Street-Strip Specialist

When I tested the AMS Racing Stage 3 VVT Low, the immediate impact was the aggressive shift in power delivery. Unlike mild cams that offer a broad, flat curve, this unit transforms the Hemi into a high-revving beast. I found the sweet spot begins at 3,200 RPM and pulls violently until the 6,400 RPM shift point. It turns the 5.7L into an engine that begs to be pushed.

Daily Driving Manners

Honest assessment: this cam has a significant “rowdy” factor. At red lights, the idle is noticeably choppy. While it is civil enough for a daily driver if you enjoy the attention, the low-end torque is slightly softer than stock. When I drove this in heavy traffic, the VVT helped maintain some drivability, but you definitely feel the “stage 3” personality.

Highway Roll Performance

The mid-range acceleration is where this cam shines. On highway pulls, the VVT allows the cam to advance and retard for a massive surge of power. Passing felt effortless, and the engine sounded significantly more “hollow” and mechanical compared to the muffled factory tone.

Installation Requirements: MDS, Stall, and Tuning

This camshaft is specifically designed for the Budget Power Hunter. If you want the maximum possible “chop” for under $500, this is your best bet. It also serves the Drag Racing Hobbyist who needs a cam that thrives in the upper RPM range.

• Ideal Buyer: Those looking for a “No Springs Required” setup to save on labor and parts.
• Who Should Not Buy: Heavy-duty towing owners. Without a high-stall converter, the loss of low-end grunt will make pulling heavy trailers frustrating.
• MDS Delete: This is a non-MDS cam. You must install a lifter delete kit.
• Stall Converter: I highly recommend a 3,000–3,200 RPM stall to keep the engine in the powerband.
• Tuning: A custom tune via HP Tuners is mandatory to manage the VVT and idle air tables.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 5.7L Hemi Cam

Does this stage 3 cam 5.7 hemi require valve spring upgrades?

No. This is a “Low Lift” profile, meaning it is engineered to work safely with your factory 5.7L Hemi valve springs, significantly reducing the cost of your build.

What are the expected horsepower gains?

Typically, a stage 3 cam 5.7 hemi like this will net between 45 to 60 rear-wheel horsepower, depending on your intake, exhaust, and tune quality.

Is the MDS delete mandatory?

Yes. You cannot run this performance camshaft with active Multi-Displacement System lifters. They must be swapped for standard non-MDS lifters.

Will my fuel economy suffer?

Expect a drop of 2-4 MPG in the city due to the aggressive overlap and the required MDS delete, though highway mileage stays relatively stable.

Does it have a loud lope?

Yes. Even with the “low lift” designation, the duration is aggressive enough to provide a very distinct, rhythmic muscle car lope at idle.

Is it compatible with 4WD Ram trucks?

Yes, it fits 2009+ 5.7L engines, but 4WD owners should definitely use a higher stall torque converter to maintain off-the-line performance.

Final Verdict: Is This the Best Stage 3 Cam for You?

The AMS Racing Stage 3 VVT Low is a game-changer for enthusiasts on a budget. By eliminating the need for expensive valve spring kits and head removal, it slashes the total project cost. While you sacrifice a bit of low-end torque, the top-end rush and aggressive sound make it worth every penny. For $489.99, it is the most affordable way to put a legitimate stage 3 cam 5.7 hemi in your Mopar. Rating: 4.5/5 Stars. Grab this cam today if you’re ready to dominate the street and the strip!