Vortex 234 TrackForce Hydraulic Roller Camshaft
For 1998–2004 GM LS Engines – 3-Bolt Core
📋 Technical Specifications
Engine Compatibility: 1998–2004 GM LS1 / LS6 (3-bolt)
Camshaft Type: Hydraulic Roller
Duration @ .050": 234° Intake / 234° Exhaust
Lobe Lift: .349" Intake / .349" Exhaust
Valve Lift (with 1.7:1 rockers): .593"
Standard Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): 110°
Optional LSAs: 108° (tighter, more aggressive) / 112° (broader, smoother)
Operating RPM Range: 2,800 – 6,900 RPM
Idle Character: Aggressive lope – noticeable chop, crisp response
Cam Core: OEM-Quality 8620 Billet Steel Core
Lifter Type: Hydraulic Roller
⏱️ Valve Timing Events @ .050" Lift
108° LSA (ICL 104°)
• Intake Opens 7° BTDC
• Intake Closes 47° ABDC
• Exhaust Opens 55° BBDC
• Exhaust Closes 1° ATDC
• Overlap: 8°
110° LSA (ICL 106°)
• Intake Opens 3° BTDC
• Intake Closes 51° ABDC
• Exhaust Opens 51° BBDC
• Exhaust Closes 3° ATDC
• Overlap: 6°
112° LSA (ICL 108°)
• Intake Opens 1° ATDC
• Intake Closes 53° ABDC
• Exhaust Opens 49° BBDC
• Exhaust Closes 5° ATDC
• Overlap: 2°
🧮 All events calculated at .050" tappet lift. Overlap represents valve open period near TDC where intake and exhaust are both flowing.
🚀 Performance Highlights
Standard 110° LSA: Perfect balance for street/strip use — strong torque, aggressive idle, and excellent throttle response.
108° Option: Tighter separation increases chop and midrange punch, ideal for lighter cars or manual transmissions.
112° Option: Provides smoother idle, higher vacuum, and a broader torque curve — ideal for heavier vehicles or automatic applications.
Hydraulic roller design ensures quiet operation, long-term durability, and reduced friction.
Works exceptionally well with ported LS heads, long-tube headers, and high-flow intakes.
Excellent results with 10.5:1–11.5:1 compression and premium 91+ octane fuel.
ECU tuning recommended for optimal performance and idle stability.
🛠 Recommended Valve Train & Torque Converter Upgrades
Valve Train Setup
Valve Springs: Dual or beehive hydraulic roller spring set
Seat Pressure: 150–160 lbs @ installed height
Open Pressure: 400–420 lbs @ .600" lift
Coil Bind Clearance: .060"–.080" minimum (target ~.090")
Retainers: Tool-steel or titanium
Pushrods: 5/16" or 3/8" Chromoly, one-piece
Lifters: LS7 or equivalent high-performance hydraulic roller
Rocker Arms: Factory 1.7:1 with trunnion upgrade recommended
Install Notes: Verify piston-to-valve and retainer-to-seal clearance when degreeing cam
Torque Converter / Drivetrain Match
Automatic (street/strip): 2,800–3,400 RPM stall (tight for street, higher for drag)
Automatic (108° LSA cam): 3,400–3,800 RPM stall for stronger midrange hit
Manual Transmission: Lightweight flywheel & high-clamp clutch for crisp engagement
Recommended Gearing: 3.73+ rear gears for best acceleration and drivability
💻 ECU tuning is required for proper idle quality, fueling, and timing curve optimization.
💪 Why Choose the Vortex 234 TrackForce
The Vortex 234 TrackForce is engineered for enthusiasts who demand both street manners and race-bred performance.
Balanced 234°/234° profile delivers explosive power across the mid and top range while maintaining drivability.
Available in multiple LSAs so you can fine-tune sound, powerband, and behavior to your exact setup.
Hydraulic roller profile ensures smooth valvetrain operation, quiet performance, and excellent longevity.
Perfect for naturally aspirated, nitrous-assisted, or mild boosted LS builds seeking consistent track results.
🏆 Why Buy from RedLine Cams
35+ Years of Proven Experience: RedLine has been building and testing high-performance camshafts since 1989.
OEM-Quality Cores: Every RedLine cam starts with premium 8620 billet steel cores for ultimate wear resistance.
Complete Engine Packages: We offer all matching components for your LS build — valve springs, lifters, pushrods, rockers, and gaskets — all precision-matched for this camshaft.
In-House Expertise: Developed by veteran engine builders who live and breathe LS performance.
Custom Grinds Available: Need a specific compression or powerband match? RedLine will grind a cam to your exact spec.
Customer Support: Call us for expert tech help or a full parts quote — we stand behind every cam we make.