The Top 5 Cam options for Stock 350 Chevy Engines - Which is the Best?
Find the best cam for your stock 350 Chevy engine with our expert recommendations. Improve performance and power with ease.
When it comes to the best cam for a stock 350 Chevy, there are a variety of options available. However, choosing the right one can be a daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with the technical aspects of engine building. A good camshaft can make all the difference in the performance and power of your engine, so it's important to carefully consider your options before making a decision.
One of the first things to consider when choosing a camshaft is the type of driving you plan on doing. Are you looking for a cam that will give you more low-end torque, or are you more interested in top-end horsepower? Different cams are designed to optimize different aspects of engine performance, so it's important to choose one that suits your specific needs.
Another factor to consider is the size of the camshaft. Generally speaking, a larger camshaft will provide more power, but at the cost of lower idle quality and reduced low-end torque. On the other hand, a smaller camshaft will provide better low-end torque and idle quality, but may sacrifice some top-end power. It's important to strike a balance between these factors, depending on your specific needs.
One popular option for a stock 350 Chevy is the Comp Cams XE268H. This cam features a hydraulic grind, which makes it easy to install and maintain. It also provides a good balance of low-end torque and top-end power, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Another option to consider is the Crane Cams Energizer 274H. This camshaft is designed to provide more mid-range power and torque, making it ideal for street driving. It also features a hydraulic grind, which makes it easy to install and maintain.
If you're looking for maximum top-end power, the Lunati Voodoo 60103 is a popular choice. This camshaft features a more aggressive grind, which provides excellent top-end power but sacrifices some low-end torque and idle quality. It's best suited for high-performance applications, such as racing or serious street driving.
Of course, these are just a few of the many options available for a stock 350 Chevy. Ultimately, the best camshaft for your engine will depend on a variety of factors, including your specific needs, budget, and driving style. By carefully considering your options and doing your research, you can find the perfect camshaft to take your engine's performance to the next level.
In conclusion, choosing the best cam for a stock 350 Chevy requires careful consideration of a variety of factors. From the type of driving you plan on doing to the size and grind of the camshaft, there are many variables to consider. By doing your research and choosing a camshaft that suits your specific needs, you can optimize your engine's performance and get the most out of your vehicle.
Introduction
The Chevrolet 350 engine has been a popular choice for car enthusiasts for decades, and upgrading its camshaft is a common modification. A camshaft is responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the engine's valves, which ultimately affects its performance. Choosing the right camshaft can be a daunting task, but in this article, we will discuss some of the best options available for a stock 350 Chevy.
Factors to Consider
When selecting a camshaft for your engine, there are several factors to consider. The first consideration is the intended use of the vehicle. Will it primarily be a street car or a race car? The second consideration is the engine's compression ratio and cylinder head flow. These factors will affect the camshaft's duration and lift. The third consideration is your budget. Camshafts can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.
Street Use
If your Chevy 350 is primarily used as a street car, you'll want a camshaft that provides good low-end torque and drivability. This means a camshaft with a mild duration and lift. One excellent option is the Comp Cams XE262H. It has a duration of 218/224, a lift of 0.462/0.469, and a lobe separation angle of 110 degrees. This camshaft provides excellent low-end torque and a smooth idle.
Race Use
If you plan on racing your Chevy 350, you'll want a camshaft that provides maximum power at high RPMs. This means a camshaft with a longer duration and higher lift. One excellent option is the Lunati Voodoo 60103. It has a duration of 262/268, a lift of 0.489/0.504, and a lobe separation angle of 110 degrees. This camshaft provides excellent mid to high RPM power and a noticeable lope at idle.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you're on a tight budget, there are still some excellent camshaft options available for your Chevy 350. The first option is the Comp Cams CL12-600-4. This camshaft has a duration of 260/260, a lift of 0.477/0.480, and a lobe separation angle of 112 degrees. It provides good low-end torque and a noticeable lope at idle. The second option is the Edelbrock 2102. This camshaft has a duration of 204/214, a lift of 0.420/0.442, and a lobe separation angle of 112 degrees. It's an excellent choice for a mild street engine.
High-End Options
If money is no object, there are some high-end camshaft options available for your Chevy 350. The first option is the Comp Cams 12-000-8. This camshaft has a duration of 284/296, a lift of 0.540/0.562, and a lobe separation angle of 110 degrees. It provides excellent mid to high RPM power and a noticeable lope at idle. The second option is the Lunati 10120702LK. This camshaft has a duration of 268/276, a lift of 0.522/0.538, and a lobe separation angle of 110 degrees. It's an excellent choice for a high RPM race engine.
Conclusion
Upgrading the camshaft in your Chevy 350 engine can provide significant gains in performance. Choosing the right camshaft can be a daunting task, but by considering factors such as intended use, compression ratio, and budget, you can find an option that fits your needs. Whether you're looking for a mild street engine or a high RPM race engine, there is a camshaft available to suit your needs.
Introduction to the Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
The Chevrolet 350 engine is one of the most popular engines in the automotive industry. It is widely used in muscle cars, hot rods, and even boats. The stock camshaft in the 350 Chevy engine is designed for daily driving, but it may not provide the best performance for those who want more power. The best cam for stock 350 Chevy can improve the engine's performance by increasing horsepower and torque. In this article, we will discuss the basic features to consider when choosing a cam for stock 350 Chevy, the benefits of upgrading the cam, top cam brands for stock 350 Chevy, installation process, maintenance, customer reviews, and frequently asked questions.Basic Features to Consider for a Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
Before choosing a cam for stock 350 Chevy, there are certain features that you need to consider. These include:Lobe Separation Angle (LSA)
The LSA refers to the angle between the intake and exhaust lobes on the camshaft. This angle affects the engine's power delivery. A narrow LSA creates more overlap between the intake and exhaust valves, resulting in increased top-end power. On the other hand, a wider LSA reduces overlap and improves low-end power.Lift
Lift refers to the distance the camshaft lifts the valve off the seat. A higher lift results in more airflow and power. However, too much lift can cause the valve to hit the piston, leading to engine damage.Duration
Duration refers to the amount of time the valve stays open. Longer duration results in more airflow and power at high RPMs. However, it can also affect idle quality and low-end power.Valve Timing
The timing of the opening and closing of the valves affects the engine's power delivery. Advancing the timing results in more low-end power, while retarding the timing improves top-end power.How to Choose the Right Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
Choosing the right cam for stock 350 Chevy requires careful consideration of your goals and driving style. If you're looking for a cam that provides more low-end torque for street driving, then you should choose a cam with a wider LSA and shorter duration. On the other hand, if you want more top-end power for racing, then you should choose a cam with a narrow LSA and longer duration.It is also important to consider the engine's compression ratio and cylinder head flow when choosing a cam. A high compression ratio and good cylinder head flow require a cam with higher lift and longer duration. However, if the engine has a low compression ratio and poor cylinder head flow, then a cam with less lift and shorter duration is recommended.Benefits of Upgrading the Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
Upgrading the cam for stock 350 Chevy provides several benefits, including:Increased Horsepower and Torque
The best cam for stock 350 Chevy can increase horsepower and torque by improving airflow and valve timing. This results in improved acceleration and overall performance.Better Throttle Response
A performance camshaft provides better throttle response by improving airflow and valve timing. This results in a more responsive engine that delivers power quickly when you need it.Improved Fuel Efficiency
A performance camshaft can also improve fuel efficiency by increasing the engine's efficiency. This means that the engine burns fuel more effectively, resulting in better mileage.Enhanced Engine Sound
A performance camshaft can enhance the engine sound by providing a more aggressive exhaust note. This is especially true for cams with a high lift and long duration.Performance Enhancements with the Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
The best cam for stock 350 Chevy can provide significant performance enhancements, including:Increased Horsepower and Torque
A performance camshaft can increase horsepower and torque by up to 50%. This provides improved acceleration and overall performance.Better Throttle Response
A performance camshaft provides better throttle response by improving airflow and valve timing. This results in a more responsive engine that delivers power quickly when you need it.Improved Idle Quality
A performance camshaft can improve idle quality by providing a smooth, consistent idle. This is especially true for cams with a wider LSA and shorter duration.Improved Exhaust Note
A performance camshaft can enhance the engine sound by providing a more aggressive exhaust note. This is especially true for cams with a high lift and long duration.Improved Fuel Efficiency
A performance camshaft can improve fuel efficiency by increasing the engine's efficiency. This means that the engine burns fuel more effectively, resulting in better mileage.Top Cam Brands for Stock 350 Chevy
There are several top cam brands for stock 350 Chevy, including:Comp Cams
Comp Cams is one of the leading manufacturers of high-performance camshafts. Their Xtreme Energy line of cams provides excellent performance gains for stock 350 Chevy engines.Crower
Crower is another top camshaft manufacturer that offers a wide range of cams for stock 350 Chevy engines. Their cams are known for their high lift and long duration, providing excellent performance gains.Crane Cams
Crane Cams is a well-known brand that offers high-performance cams for a variety of applications. Their cams provide excellent power gains and improved throttle response.Isky Cams
Isky Cams is a trusted name in the performance camshaft industry. Their cams provide excellent power gains and improved engine sound.Installation Process for the Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
Installing a cam for stock 350 Chevy requires mechanical expertise and special tools. The installation process involves the following steps:Step 1: Remove the Old Camshaft
The first step is to remove the old camshaft. This involves removing the valve covers, rocker arms, lifters, and pushrods. The camshaft can then be removed by loosening the bolts that hold it in place.Step 2: Install the New Camshaft
The new camshaft can then be installed by carefully aligning it with the crankshaft and installing the camshaft gear. The lifters, pushrods, and rocker arms can then be installed.Step 3: Adjust Valve Lash
Once the new camshaft is installed, it is important to adjust the valve lash. This involves setting the gap between the valve stem and rocker arm.Step 4: Reassemble the Engine
The engine can then be reassembled by installing the valve covers, intake manifold, and other components.Maintenance and Care for the Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
Proper maintenance and care are essential for the best cam for stock 350 Chevy. Regular oil changes and engine maintenance are important to ensure the camshaft's longevity. It is also important to avoid extended periods of idling or high RPMs, as this can cause excessive wear on the camshaft and other engine components.Customer Reviews and Feedback on the Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
Customer reviews and feedback provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of the best cam for stock 350 Chevy. Many customers report significant performance gains and improved throttle response after installing a high-performance camshaft. However, some customers have reported issues with durability and wear over time.Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
Q: How much horsepower can I expect to gain from a high-performance camshaft?A: You can expect to gain up to 50% more horsepower with a high-performance camshaft.Q: What is the recommended break-in period for a new camshaft?A: The recommended break-in period is typically 20-30 minutes of running the engine at 2,000-2,500 RPMs.Q: Can I install a high-performance camshaft myself?A: Installing a high-performance camshaft requires mechanical expertise and special tools. It is recommended to have a professional mechanic perform the installation.Q: Can I use my stock valve springs with a high-performance camshaft?A: It is recommended to use upgraded valve springs with a high-performance camshaft to ensure proper valve control and prevent valve float.Q: What is the average lifespan of a high-performance camshaft?A: The lifespan of a high-performance camshaft varies depending on usage and maintenance. With proper care and maintenance, a camshaft can last for many years.The Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy: A Point of View
Introduction
Chevrolet's 350 engine is one of the most popular engines in the world. It has been used in a variety of applications from muscle cars to trucks. Many enthusiasts look to upgrade their stock 350 engine to increase performance. One of the most popular upgrades is installing a new camshaft. In this article, we will discuss the best cam for stock 350 Chevy and its pros and cons.The Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy
After extensive research, we have concluded that the best cam for a stock 350 Chevy is the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H camshaft. This camshaft has been specifically designed to improve the performance of stock 350 engines. It provides an excellent balance between low-end torque and high-end horsepower. The camshaft has a lift of 0.477 inches and a duration of 224 degrees at 0.050 inches of lift. It also has a lobe separation angle of 110 degrees.Pros of the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H Camshaft
- Improved low-end torque
- Increase in horsepower
- Great balance between torque and horsepower
- Specifically designed for stock 350 engines
- Easy to install
Cons of the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H Camshaft
- May not be suitable for high-performance applications
- May require additional modifications to the engine
- Slightly more expensive than other options
Comparison with Other Camshafts
To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a table comparing the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H camshaft with two other popular camshafts.| Camshaft | Lift (inches) | Duration (degrees at 0.050 inches of lift) | Lobe Separation Angle (degrees) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H | 0.477 | 224 | 110 | $235 |
| Camshaft A | 0.450 | 218 | 112 | $199 |
| Camshaft B | 0.490 | 230 | 108 | $255 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H camshaft is the best option for those looking to upgrade their stock 350 Chevy engine. It provides an excellent balance between low-end torque and high-end horsepower and has been specifically designed for stock engines. While it may be slightly more expensive than other options, its benefits outweigh the costs.The Best Cam for Stock 350 Chevy - A Comprehensive Guide
Thank you for taking the time to read our comprehensive guide on the best cam for a stock 350 Chevy. We hope that this article has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when choosing the right camshaft for your engine. Before we close, we want to summarize some of the key points we’ve discussed throughout this article.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that a camshaft is one of the most critical components in your engine. It’s responsible for opening and closing the valves, which allows air and fuel to enter and exit the combustion chamber. As a result, choosing the right camshaft can have a significant impact on your engine’s performance.
When looking for the best cam for a stock 350 Chevy, it’s essential to consider factors like lift, duration, and overlap. These specifications will determine how much air and fuel your engine can take in and how quickly it can evacuate exhaust gases. Depending on your specific needs, you may want to opt for a camshaft with a more aggressive profile or one that’s better suited for low-end torque.
In our article, we’ve highlighted some of the best camshafts available on the market for a stock 350 Chevy. Each of these cams comes with its own set of unique features that can improve your engine’s horsepower and torque output. Whether you’re looking for a camshaft that’s compatible with your existing valve train or one that’s easy to install, there’s an option out there for you.
Another critical factor to consider when selecting a camshaft is the type of engine you have. Different engine types require different camshafts, and installing the wrong one can lead to poor performance and even engine damage. Before purchasing a camshaft, make sure you know your engine’s specifications and requirements.
Lastly, it’s important to note that installing a new camshaft requires a certain level of mechanical expertise. If you’re not comfortable working on your engine or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s best to leave the installation to a professional. Improper installation can lead to severe engine damage and even safety hazards.
In conclusion, choosing the best cam for a stock 350 Chevy requires careful consideration of several key factors. By paying attention to lift, duration, overlap, and engine type, you can select a camshaft that will provide the performance gains you’re looking for. Remember to seek professional help if you’re unsure about how to install a new camshaft, and always prioritize safety when working on your engine.
Thank you once again for reading our article, and we wish you the best of luck in your search for the perfect camshaft for your stock 350 Chevy!
People also ask about the best cam for stock 350 Chevy
What is a camshaft?
A camshaft is an essential component of an engine that controls the opening and closing of the engine valves, which allows air and fuel to enter and exhaust gases to exit the engine.
What are the benefits of upgrading the camshaft?
Upgrading the camshaft can improve the engine's performance by increasing horsepower and torque, improving throttle response, and enhancing the engine's sound.
What should you consider when choosing a camshaft for a stock 350 Chevy?
When selecting a camshaft for a stock 350 Chevy, you should consider the following factors:
- The intended use of the vehicle
- The engine's compression ratio
- The vehicle's transmission and rear-end gear ratio
- Your budget
What is the best camshaft for a stock 350 Chevy?
The best camshaft for a stock 350 Chevy depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some popular options include:
- Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE262H Camshaft
- Lunati Voodoo 60103 Camshaft
- Crane Cams Energizer Camshaft
- Edelbrock Performer-Plus Camshaft
Can I install a camshaft myself?
While it's possible to install a camshaft yourself, it's a complicated process that requires significant knowledge of engines and mechanical work. It's recommended to have a professional mechanic perform the installation to ensure it's done correctly.