The Right Performance Cam & Lifter Kits for Your Car
Introduction
When it comes to upgrading your vehicle's engine, one of the most popular modifications is a performance cam and lifter kit. These kits can significantly increase horsepower and torque, providing a noticeable boost in overall performance. However, choosing the right kit for your vehicle can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider. In this article, we will provide some tips on how to choose the best performance cam and lifter kit for your vehicle.
Consider Your Vehicle's Make and Model
The first thing to consider when choosing a performance cam and lifter kit is your vehicle's make and model. Different vehicles have different engine types and configurations, and as such, they may require different cam and lifter kits. For example, a kit that is designed for a V8 engine may not be compatible with a four-cylinder engine. It is important to select a kit that is specifically designed for your vehicle's engine.
Another factor to consider when choosing a performance cam and lifter kit is your performance goals. Are you looking to increase horsepower and torque, or are you more interested in improving your vehicle's acceleration and top speed? Different cam and lifter kits will provide different performance benefits, so it is important to determine your goals before making a selection.
Research Different Brands and Models
Once you have a good understanding of your vehicle's engine and your performance goals, you can begin researching different brands and models of performance cam and lifter kits. There are many different manufacturers on the market, each offering a wide range of kits with various features and specifications. It is important to read reviews and compare the features of different kits to determine which one is the best fit for your vehicle and your performance goals.
Consider Your Budget
Another important factor to consider when choosing a performance cam and lifter kit is your budget. These kits can vary greatly in price, with some being quite affordable and others being quite expensive. It is important to determine how much you are willing to spend on a kit and then select a model that fits within your budget. Remember, a higher price does not always mean a better kit, so be sure to research and compare different models to find the best value for your money.
Have the Kit Installed by a Professional
Once you have selected the perfect performance cam and lifter kit for your vehicle, it is important to have it installed by a professional. These kits require specialized tools and expertise to install properly, and attempting to do it yourself can result in damage to your engine. A professional mechanic will have the knowledge and experience to install the kit correctly, ensuring that it performs to its full potential.
Conclusion
Choosing the right performance cam and lifter kit for your vehicle can be a challenging task, but with the right information and careful consideration, you can find a kit that will provide the performance benefits you are looking for. By considering your vehicle's make and model, determining your performance goals, researching different brands and models, and considering your budget, you can find the perfect kit to enhance your vehicle's engine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do you need to do lifters with cam?
When installing a new flat tappet cam, it is necessary to also replace the lifters. Used lifters may have a wear pattern that prevents them from functioning properly and can cause rapid wear on both the lifter and cam surfaces.
2. What makes a camshaft choppy?
The choppy sound of a camshaft is primarily determined by the overlap between the intake and exhaust valves. The duration and lobe separation angle (LSA) of the camshaft also play a role in controlling the amount of chop a cam has.
3. How much does it cost to cam your car?
The cost of camshaft replacement can vary, but on average, it ranges between $1,430 and $1,664. This includes both labor and parts costs. The specific cost may depend on factors such as the type of camshaft and the complexity of the installation.
4. Is it OK to put new lifters on an old cam?
It is generally acceptable to install new lifters on an old camshaft. However, installing old lifters on a new camshaft is not recommended. The lifters wear into the camshaft, and since all cams are slightly different, it is best to pair a new cam with new lifters.
5. Can a lifter damage a camshaft?
A faulty hydraulic lifter can cause engine issues such as misfiring, rough running, and an illuminated check engine light. Driving with a bad lifter can potentially damage the camshaft, catalytic converter, and other internal engine components. It is important to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage.
6. How long does it take to break in a cam?
The first 20 minutes of break-in are crucial for a flat tappet camshaft. During this time, the lifters and cam lobes mate together. Using oils with specific additive packages designed for camshaft break-in can be beneficial.
7. Do I need break-in oil for a new cam?
When breaking in a new cam, it is recommended to use break-in oil or a non-detergent straight weight oil along with a ZDDP booster. Applying heavy break-in paste to the lobes and lifters during installation can also help ensure proper break-in.
8. What makes a cam more torque?
A camshaft with a wider lobe separation angle (LSA) of 112-116 degrees can spread torque over a larger portion of the engine's rpm range. This design allows for better power throughout the upper rpm range, resulting in increased torque.
9. Do cammed cars idle rough?
Cammed cars may have a rough idle, especially at low rpms. The modified camshaft can cause some exhaust gas to leak into the intake tract, diluting the idle mixture and causing the engine to 'lope' or shudder. This typically clears up when accelerating.
10. Can you drive a cammed car daily?
It is possible to daily drive a car with a camshaft, as long as the camshaft has less overlap and a higher lobe separation angle (LSA), and the tune is properly adjusted. The specific camshaft specifications and tune will determine the drivability of the cammed car.
Editor's Notes
During our performance cam & lifter kit research, we found 24 performance cam & lifter kit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,487 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance cam & lifter kits list. We found that most customers choose performance cam & lifter kits with an average price of $320.62.
The performance cam & lifter kits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance cam & lifter kits, including Comp Cams, Melling, Holley, GM Performance Parts. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.
