1981 GMC K1500 Camshafts

Essential 1981 GMC K1500 Camshafts

Competition Cams – XE 218/224 Hydraulic Roller Cam and Lifter Kit Chevrolet Big Block 396-454 (Part No.CL11-422-8)

XE 218/224 Hydraulic Roller Cam and Lifter Kit Chevrolet Big Block 396-454

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$1147.99
Featuring a quicker valve opening, the Xtreme Energy camshaft profile provides increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve than older, slower grinds. Designed to increase performance without sacrificing driveability and creature comforts,

Product Features:
  • Excellent performance in street carbureted applications.
  • More vacuum allows an increase in duration for improved performance and assists power brakes.
  • Quicker opening lobe profiles deliver increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve.
  • Best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, headers, lower gear ratios etc.
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Competition Cams – CAM AND LIFTER KIT, SBC 284 XTREME ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA (Part No.CL12-250-3)

CAM AND LIFTER KIT, SBC 284 XTREME ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA

from

$326.99
Featuring a quicker valve opening, the Xtreme Energy camshaft profile provides increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve than older, slower grinds. Designed to increase performance without sacrificing driveability and creature comforts,

Product Features:
  • Excellent performance in street carbureted applications.
  • More vacuum allows an increase in duration for improved performance and assists power brakes.
  • Quicker opening lobe profiles deliver increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve.
  • Best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, headers, lower gear ratios etc.
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Cloyes Performance – Engine Camshaft Thrust Plate (Part No.9-220B)

Engine Camshaft Thrust Plate

from

$18.99
0.150″ Thick. Bronze Thrust Washer.

Product Features:
  • 0.150″ Thick
  • Bronze Thrust Washer.
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Cloyes Performance – Engine Camshaft Thrust Washer (Part No.9-203)

Engine Camshaft Thrust Washer

from

$13.99
Heat Treated Steel Bearing Race Material. Must Machine Cam Sprocket or Engiine Block .030″ to Ensure Proper Chain Alignment. Prevents Wear On Engine Block. Can be Used to Repair a Damaged Engine Block Thrust Surface.

Product Features:
  • Heat Treated Steel Bearing Race Material
  • Must Machine Cam Sprocket or Engine Block .030″ to Ensure Proper Chain Alignment
  • Prevents Wear On Engine Block
  • Can be Used to Repair a Damaged Engine Block Thrust Surface.
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Mr. Gasket – Cam Change Gaskets (Part No.4406)

Cam Change Gaskets

from

$63.09
If you want to update just your camshaft and aren’t doing a complete engine overhaul, this kit contains all the gaskets needed to change out your camshaft. That way you don’t have to buy a complete gasket kit just to change the cam, but still can replace all the gaskets you should in the process.

Product Features:
  • Contains all the gaskets needed to change out your camshaft
  • Fuel Injector O-Ring Not Included
  • Meets Performance Standards
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Sealed Power – Engine Camshaft (Part No.CS-774)

Engine Camshaft

from

$72.99
Sealed Power® parts provide innovative designs, use leading edge materials and utilize ISO & QS certified manufacturing in order to deliver top quality products that meet the rigorous demands of today’s modern engines.

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds OEM specs
  • Original equipment performance
  • Idle: Stock
  • Latest high quality materials
  • Precision machining
  • Made in USA
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Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 291 MUTHA THUMPR HYDRAULIC ROLLER 1 EA (Part No.12-601-8)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 291 MUTHA THUMPR HYDRAULIC ROLLER 1 EA

from

$522.99
Designed to deliver an aggressive, hard-hitting exhaust note at idle, the Thumpr camshaft series from COMP Cams also delivers excellent horsepower gains and a broad torque curve. A perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods, the Thumpr series’ early i

Product Features:
  • Early intake valve opening and long exhaust duration create optimum overlap for powerful, hard-hitting exhaust note.
  • Best with aftermarket converters and more rear gear.
  • Three unique cam designs for each application that deliver excellent horsepower gains and broad torque curve; perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods.
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Sealed Power – Engine Camshaft Bearing Set (Part No.1557M)

Engine Camshaft Bearing Set

from

$36.99
Sealed Power® parts provide innovative designs, use leading edge materials and utilize ISO & QS certified manufacturing in order to deliver top quality products that meet the rigorous demands of today’s modern engines.

Product Features:
  • Steel-backed Babbitt lining material
  • Used in automotive and high-performance
  • Babbitt is designed to perform under extreme loads w/o damaging other engine parts
  • Babbitt is more environmentally friendly than other material
  • ISO & QS certified manufacturing
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Mr. Gasket – Advance And Retard Cam Bushings (Part No.85B)

Advance And Retard Cam Bushings

from

$35.99
With Mr. Gasket cam degree bushings you fine tune the camshaft timing of your engine to as little as 1 degree. Even aftermarket timing sets with multiple keyways can’t give the range of adjustment these bushings allow. Retard your camshaft to lower the powerband for more low end torque and midrange horsepower, or advance for more top end power. This kit does odd number adjustment 0-7 degrees.

Product Features:
  • Advance the cam for increased torque and horsepower
  • Tune your powerband for more end torque or increase top end horsepower
  • Includes (4) offset bushings and (1) 0 degree bushing
  • Cam sprocket dowel pin hole must be drilled to .406¿ (13/32¿) dia.
  • Cam sprocket dowel pin hole must be drilled to .406┐ (13/32┐) dia.
  • Increase Top-End Horsepower
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Sealed Power – Engine Camshaft Bearing Set (Part No.1496M)

Engine Camshaft Bearing Set

from

$57.99
Sealed Power® parts provide innovative designs, use leading edge materials and utilize ISO & QS certified manufacturing in order to deliver top quality products that meet the rigorous demands of today’s modern engines.

Product Features:
  • Steel-backed Babbitt lining material
  • Used in automotive and high-performance
  • Babbitt is designed to perform under extreme loads w/o damaging other engine parts
  • Babbitt is more environmentally friendly than other material
  • ISO & QS certified manufacturing
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Cloyes Performance – Engine Camshaft Bushing (Part No.P9005)

Engine Camshaft Bushing

from

$24.99
Replacement Hex-A-Just Billet Steel Camshaft Dowel Eccentric Bushing; 100% USA Made; Meets or exceeds OEM performance requirements; Cloyes utilizes the latest in design and material technology, ensuring quiet and maintenance-free experience.

Product Features:
  • Replacement Hex-A-Just Billet Steel Camshaft Dowel Eccentric Bushing
  • 100% USA Made
  • Meets or exceeds OEM performance requirements
  • Cloyes utilizes the latest in design and material technology, ensuring quiet and maintenance-free experience.
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ACDelco – Black Multi-Purpose Pigtail (Part No.PT2782)

Black Multi-Purpose Pigtail

from

$44.99
ACDelco GM Original Equipment Pigtail Connectors are connectors ready to be spliced into vehicle harnesses, and are GM-recommended replacements for your vehicle’s original components. These original equipment pigtail connectors have been manufactured to fit your GM vehicle, providing the same performance, durability, and service life you expect from General Motors.

Product Features:
  • Protective outer coverings help provide long-lasting durability
  • Color-coded wires allow for easy installation
  • GM-recommended replacement part for your GM vehicle’s original factory component
  • Offering the quality, reliability, and durability of GM OE
  • Manufactured to GM OE specification for fit, form, and function
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Carquest Premium – 4WD Indicator Light Switch Connector (Part No.PTA1019)

4WD Indicator Light Switch Connector

from

$31.49
CARQUEST premium engine management products provide the right products for a wide range of domestic and import applications. Delivering the highest performance and durability under demanding conditions.

Product Features:
  • Premium quality materials for longer service life
  • Sealed connections (where applicable) to prevent environmental corrosion and performance issues
  • Global coverage for import and/or domestic applications
  • OE specified wire gauge to ensure a reliable electrical connection
  • Designed to meet or exceed OE specifications in form, fit and function
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National – Shaft Repair Sleeve (Part No.99176)

Shaft Repair Sleeve

from

$46.49
National® has built a reputation as one of the most respected names in the industry. We have offered premium sealing solutions for more than 75 years. Our design team keeps pace with the industry and provides advanced solutions for today’s vehicles.

Product Features:
  • Designed to repair damaged, grooved or worn shafts
  • Durable stainless steel construction for corrosion-free sealing surface that surpasses most original shaft specifications
  • Ideal for a shaft where indications of seal wear, such as tracks or grooves have developed
  • Ultra-thin construction (0.01/0.25mm wall thickness) allows original seal size to be used with minimal additional lip loading
  • Easy to install with removable flange and installation tool
  • Installation tool reduces sleeve distortion and allows for installation without removal from the shaft
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Mr. Gasket – Cam Button Spacer (Part No.1180)

Cam Button Spacer

from

$15.99
Mr. Gasket cam buttons are an absolute necessity for roller cam conversions and useful to maintain accuracy in any cam installation. Cam buttons keep the camshaft from moving in and out and causing erratic timing. A camshaft button, or camshaft thrust bumper installs into the hole in the front end of the camshaft and prevents camshaft walk in roller camshaft applications. Flat tappet cams are ground with a small angle in the lobes that puts a side load on the camshaft. Without this a camshaft has a natural tendency to move or walk, out of the block when rotating. Roller cam lobes can’t be ground that way so engines originally equipped that way usually use a retainer plate to secure them. The camshaft button serves the same purpose, but it does so by contacting the timing cover to prevent movement. If you have an engine already converted, a worn or missing cam thrust bumper will result in too much end play, resulting in erratic timing and should be checked.

Product Features:
  • Mandatory to prevent cam walk in roller cam conversions
  • Helps maintain accurate timing
  • Made from aluminum
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Mr. Gasket – Cam Button Spacer (Part No.1183)

Cam Button Spacer

from

$14.99
These Mr. Gasket cam buttons are an absolute necessity for roller cam installations and useful to maintain accuracy in any cam installation. Cam buttons keep the camshaft from moving in and out and causing erratic timing. A camshaft button, or camshaft thrust bumper installs into the hole in the front end of the camshaft and prevents camshaft walk in roller camshaft applications. Flat tappet cams are ground with a small angle in the lobes that puts a side load on the camshaft. Without this a camshaft has a natural tendency to move or walk, out of the block when rotating. Roller cam lobes can’t be ground that way so engines originally equipped that way usually use a retainer plate to secure them. The camshaft button serves the same purpose, but it does so by contacting the timing cover to prevent further movement. A worn or missing cam thrust bumper will result in too much end play, resulting in timing issues.

Product Features:
  • Mandatory to prevent cam walk in roller cam conversions
  • Helps maintain accurate timing
  • Made from aluminum
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Cloyes Performance – Engine Camshaft Thrust Button (Part No.9-200)

Engine Camshaft Thrust Button

from

$27.99
All Components are Heat-Treated Steel. Needle Roller Bearing for a Fully Rollerized Operation. 0.925″ Long, Used with Old Style 3-Spoke Sheet Metal Covers.

Product Features:
  • All components are Heat-Treated Steel
  • Needle Roller Bearing
  • Fully Rollerized Operation.
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Mr. Gasket – Cam Button Spacer (Part No.1181)

Cam Button Spacer

from

$12.79
These Mr. Gasket cam buttons are an absolute necessity for roller cam installations and useful to maintain accuracy in any cam installation. Cam buttons keep the camshaft from moving in and out and causing erratic timing. A camshaft button, or camshaft thrust bumper installs into the hole in the front end of the camshaft and prevents camshaft walk in roller camshaft applications. Flat tappet cams are ground with a small angle in the lobes that puts a side load on the camshaft. Without this a camshaft has a natural tendency to move or walk, out of the block when rotating. Roller cam lobes can’t be ground that way so engines originally equipped that way usually use a retainer plate to secure them. The camshaft button serves the same purpose, but it does so by contacting the timing cover to prevent movement. If you have an engine already converted, a worn or missing cam thrust bumper will result in too much end play, resulting in erratic timing and should be checked.

Product Features:
  • Mandatory to prevent cam walk in roller cam conversions
  • Helps maintain accurate timing
  • Made from aluminum
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Dorman – Steel Cup Expansion Plug 2-7/64 In., Height 0.310 (sold by each) (Part No.555-080)

Steel Cup Expansion Plug 2-7/64 In., Height 0.310 (sold by each)

from

$2.49
This engine camshaft plug is designed to match the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this engine camshaft plug matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
  • Ideal solution – this plug is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
  • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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Dorman – Steel Cup Expansion Plug 2-3/32 In., Height 0.530 (sold by each) (Part No.555-085)

Steel Cup Expansion Plug 2-3/32 In., Height 0.530 (sold by each)

from

$2.29
This engine camshaft plug is designed to match the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this engine camshaft plug matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
  • Ideal solution – this plug is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
  • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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Dorman – Steel Cup Expansion Plug 2-1/16 In., SC, Height 0.270 (sold by each) (Part No.555-073)

Steel Cup Expansion Plug 2-1/16 In., SC, Height 0.270 (sold by each)

from

$2.29
This engine expansion plug is designed to match the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this engine expansion plug matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
  • Ideal solution – this plug is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
  • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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Dorman – Steel Cup Expansion Plug 1-5/8 In., Height 0.500 (sold by each) (Part No.555-030)

Steel Cup Expansion Plug 1-5/8 In., Height 0.500 (sold by each)

from

$1.49
This engine expansion plug is designed to match the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this engine expansion plug matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
  • Ideal solution – this plug is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
  • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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Dorman – Steel Cup Expansion Plug 1-5/8 In., Height 0.500 (Part No.555-030.1)

Steel Cup Expansion Plug 1-5/8 In., Height 0.500

from

$2.79
This engine expansion plug is designed to match the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this engine expansion plug matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
  • Ideal solution – this plug is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
  • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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Mr. Gasket – Cam Bolt Lock Plate Kit (Part No.948G)

Cam Bolt Lock Plate Kit

from

$18.09
Mr. Gasket cam locking plates feature a steel retainer plate designed to secure the cam gear bolts from coming loose and backing out, preventing costly engine damage. Retainer plate fits under bolt heads allowing tabs to be bent against hex head flats creating a secure positive lock.

Product Features:
  • Black oxide finished steel
  • Includes (3) grade 5 bolts & locking plate
  • Fits Chevrolet Small and Big Block without OE roller cam
  • Tabs bend up around bolt head to secure
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Mr. Gasket – Special Cam Bolt (Part No.944G)

Special Cam Bolt

from

$12.99
These Mr. Gasket cam bolt kits feature specially hardened bolts to keep the cam button secure so the cam won’t walk out of place. Can also be used as original equipment replacement. Includes three 5/16 inch-18 x 3/4 inch Long Grade 5 Bolts with Black Oxide Finish.

Product Features:
  • Black oxide coated Grade 5 steel
  • Includes flat washers to secure Mr. Gasket cam buttons 1180, 1181 and 1183
  • Can be used as OE replacement
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1981 GMC K1500 Camshafts

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 GMC K1500. Maybe you just need a couple of Camshafts. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 39 different Camshafts in our inventory ranging from $1.49 to $1,566.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 GMC K1500 running smoothly.

Camshafts are only as good as their brand. We stock 8 different brands to make sure you have plenty of trusted parts to choose from for your 1981 GMC K1500. Dorman, Sealed Power, and Carquest Premium are just some of the brands we stock. Search for brands you know or compare prices and reviews to help you decide!

We know you’ll find the perfect Camshafts for your 1981 GMC K1500, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 20 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include Cam Bolt Lock Plate Kit with 5.0 stars and Engine Camshaft Bearing Set with 4.0 stars.

So if you’re in the market for aftermarket Camshafts to keep your 1981 GMC K1500 rolling for years to come, look no further. Shop online and have your products shipped direct to your door, or pick up at the nearest Advance Auto Parts location today!

Camshafts Brands To Make Your 1981 GMC K1500 Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 GMC K1500 demands trusted brand parts and products to keep it running. Many trusted brands of Camshafts make up Advance Auto Parts’ inventory, and all are ready to help make your K1500 the best it can be. Be sure to browse some of our top Camshafts brands and parts.

FAQs for 1981 GMC K1500 Camshafts

What are the most purchased Camshafts for the 1981 GMC K1500?

Out of 39 Camshafts for the 1981 GMC K1500, the most popular in our inventory are:
4WD Indicator Light Switch Connector
from $31.49
This product is not rated
4WD Indicator Light Switch Connector
Camshaft Position Sensor Connectors
Steel Cup Expansion Plug 1-5/8 In., Height 0.500 (sold by each)
from $1.49
This product is not rated
Steel Cup Expansion Plug 1-5/8 In., Height 0.500 (sold by each)
Camshaft Plugs
Steel Cup Expansion Plug 2-3/32 In., SC, Height 0.278
from $2.29
This product is not rated
Steel Cup Expansion Plug 2-3/32 In., SC, Height 0.278
Camshaft Plugs

What are the top-rated 1981 GMC K1500 Camshafts?

Top-rated Camshafts for your 1981 GMC K1500 based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Cam Bolt Lock Plate Kit
from $18.09
(2)
Cam Bolt Lock Plate Kit
“Looks nice haven’t installed yet.”
Engine Camshaft Bearing Set
from $43.49
(2)
Engine Camshaft Bearing Set
“Nicely packaged”
Cam Change Gaskets
from $63.09
(1)
Cam Change Gaskets
“I got my order on time but the oil pan gasket wasn’t right and the timing gasket was rip”