Anybody have hard data on retard/advancing stock cam?

[gtsr515]

I've been told by quite a few reputable sources that you can see decent gains by either advancing or retarding your stock cam on a stock bolt-on car? I'm looking for hard data from people that have actually done it, not, "My buddy did it, and he ran pretty good" or, "get a new cam, or a custom cam, your wasting your time", I know a "different" cam would undoubtedly be better, thats not my question, anyone?

Don't want to sound arrogant, it's just that I need quick, accurate advice.

[PKRWUD]

Retarding the valve timing will raise the rpm at which the engine reaches it's power, whereas advancing the valve timing will lower the rpm for the "power band". The best shortcut for finding the ideal setting for any engine is as follows:
Hook up a compression gauge to the engine once you've advanced or retarded the cam. With the throttle in a locked open position, move the cam timing around until you find the highest cranking pressure on the gauge. In most cases, this means that the cam is installed in the best position.

Take care,
-Chris

[BowTie Eater 5 Liter]

i have also been wondering.... how do you adjust the valve timing(do i need to pull all the front accessories?) and how much hp would it be worth?

[gtsr515]

You can't adjust valve timing.

[PKRWUD]

Originally posted by gtsr515
You can't adjust valve timing.

???????

Of course you can.

BowTie-
It's done with a special timing gear set, that allows you to change the position of the cam in relation to the crank in specific degree increments, thus advancing or retarding the valve timing. For a stocker, don't bother. For a built engine, my instructions in my first reply work best.

Take care,
-Chris