cam

Rev · 10-05-2002, 12:05 AM

The real problem here is that an engine must really be built for it's intended purpose from the beginning. Starting with the block, it needs to be prepped for what it will be used for. If you really want max power, then you must have it bored and honed with a torque plate. Otherwise the bore won't be really round with the heads bolted on. If you need max strength, you'll need forged pistons, but they won't be round before warm up.

What are you willing to give up as to longevity for the engine. Long duration, high lift cams will wear quicker, no question about it. Even rollers will require heavier valve springs and will have increased wear. Roller cams also have a much heavier valve train and so will rev slower for the same valve springs.

What about drivability? Can you stand 1000 RPM idle with 230 deg coolant temps on the street? Can you pay for race gas at $4/gal to sustain the 11/1 CR?

You won't have to face all of those questions after the fact if you think about them ahead of time. Just a few thoughts.

Rev

10-05-2002, 12:05 AM	#8
Rev Registered Member Join Date: Nov 1998 Location: Houston, Tx. Posts: 3,887	Problem here is.................. The real problem here is that an engine must really be built for it's intended purpose from the beginning. Starting with the block, it needs to be prepped for what it will be used for. If you really want max power, then you must have it bored and honed with a torque plate. Otherwise the bore won't be really round with the heads bolted on. If you need max strength, you'll need forged pistons, but they won't be round before warm up. What are you willing to give up as to longevity for the engine. Long duration, high lift cams will wear quicker, no question about it. Even rollers will require heavier valve springs and will have increased wear. Roller cams also have a much heavier valve train and so will rev slower for the same valve springs. What about drivability? Can you stand 1000 RPM idle with 230 deg coolant temps on the street? Can you pay for race gas at $4/gal to sustain the 11/1 CR? You won't have to face all of those questions after the fact if you think about them ahead of time. Just a few thoughts. Rev __________________ '66 Coupe, 306, 350-375 HP, C-4, 13.07 e.t., 104.8 mph, 1/4 mi. O.B.C. #2 '66 coupe