How Much Horsepower Can I Gain from a New Camshaft?

Performance and Tuning
1

I’ve been diving into performance tuning lately and I’m curious about camshafts. Specifically, I’m wondering: how much horsepower does a cam add to an engine? I know there are different types of camshafts out there, like roller cams and stock replacements, but I’m trying to understand the practical horsepower gains associated with each.

A Few Questions:

  • What type of camshaft have you installed, and what was the expected vs. actual horsepower gain?
  • Are there additional modifications needed to maximize the benefit?
  • Is there a specific vehicle type or engine size where certain cams tend to excel?

I appreciate any advice or experiences you can share! Understanding these performance upgrades will help me make more informed decisions for my tuning projects.

2

When it comes to horsepower gains from a new camshaft, it really depends on several factors, including the engine type and cam profile. Generally, you can expect 10-20% increases if matched well with the rest of your setup.

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3

Good points! Also, don’t forget about fuel type. Higher octane fuels can really help to maximize those gains, especially with aggressive cam profiles.

4

Are we talking about a small block or a big block engine? The type of engine can significantly influence how much power you can gain from a camshaft upgrade.

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5

That’s a great question! My engine is a small block Chevy. Does that change the recommendations?

6

Absolutely! Small blocks often have more potential for responsive gains with the right cam profile. It’s all about balance. What cam specs are you considering?

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7

I’m looking at a performance cam with a lift around 0.500 and a duration of about 230 degrees. Should I expect a significant boost?

8

That sounds promising! With tuning, you could see gains well over 20 horsepower. Just make sure to adjust your timing and fuel maps accordingly!

9

What tuning methods are you planning to use? A proper tune can either make or break your horsepower goals, especially with a new camshaft.

10

I’m hoping to go with a custom tune on a dyno. Is that the best way to maximize gains?

11

A dyno tune is definitely the way to go! You’ll get precise adjustments that can really unlock the potential of the camshaft. Plus, it’s a fun experience!

12

Don’t forget, every beast needs proper support. A camshaft alone won’t do the trick without complementary mods like headers or exhaust systems. Who’s ready for some horsepower battles?

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13

When considering a new camshaft, the key is to match the profile to your engine’s needs. For instance, a high-lift cam can provide significant gains, but it may not work well with stock components. Have you considered the specific application you want for your car?

14

Absolutely! I’m leaning towards a performance cam for my race build, but I want to know what brands have the best reputation for power gains.

15

Different brands have varied strengths. For example, Comp Cams offers a range that can increase horsepower significantly, especially with their Stage series. It’s worth looking into how they pair with your intake and exhaust systems.

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16

That’s a great point! I’ve read that the right combination can lead to gains upwards of 50HP with the right cam and supporting modifications.

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17

Just remember, it’s not just the camshaft itself; tuning plays a huge role in horsepower gains! Make sure to get a proper tune to maximize your investment.

18

Definitely! I’m planning on doing a full setup, so should I buy a tuned ECU as well?

19

A tuned ECU can greatly enhance the performance of a new camshaft. Brands like Diablosport or SCT offer great options for tuning. Just be sure it’s compatible with your car’s setup.

20

Thanks for the advice! I really just want to ensure I’m not leaving any horsepower on the table!

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