How Do You Select A Performance Camshaft?
Choosing a camshaft is highly dependent on the type of driving you do, the type of car and the other components of the engine and drive train. Selecting one that is too big or too small can have disappointing and possibly damaging results, and it is easy to select a cam that is more of a problem than a solution. Finding a design that is well suited to the entire combination makes the final results worthwhile. Determine the car weight, rear axle ratio and transmission stall speed. With respect to the engine, calculate or identify the compression ratio, cylinder head and induction system airflow, and how restrictive the exhaust system is. Identify the type of operation the engine will see during normal usage. These factors figure into exactly what valve event timing is needed for a particular camshaft design. It is important to be completely honest about the service the car and engine will be used for. Selecting a camshaft designed for a racing engine that is built to operate only at ful