How to Pick a Camshaft Profile
A car that idles rough, gets poor gas mileage and stalls in gear most likely doesn't have the proper camshaft for its engine. The camshaft is a rotating device that uses shafts that press against the engine's valves to open them, and then it springs back on the valves to close them. This is a critical function and greatly impacts an engine's performance at different speeds. When choosing a camshaft profile, you must take into account how you'd like your engine to perform.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Decide how much lift you want since opening (lifting) the valves is the camshaft's basic function. Lift indicates how far the valve is opened (or lifted) off its seat. More lift increases your engine's power, and increasing lift without modifying duration will increase your engine's power with no effect on the highest level of rotations of the engine.
-
2
Select which type of lifter (or cam) is most suited to the type of driving you will be doing. If you'll be using your car for daily driving, a hydraulic lifter type of camshaft is your best option since the lash doesn't need periodic adjustments.
-
-
3
Determine the duration you need in your camshaft profile. Duration refers to how long the camshaft holds the valves open. When the camshaft holds the valves open longer, this allows more fuel and air into the engine and lets more out through the exhaust. A longer duration (higher number) camshaft improves power but usually sacrifices torque.
-
4
Consult with your mechanic regarding the camshaft profile you've selected to see if he agrees this is the best camshaft profile for your car. If you'll be doing the work yourself, make sure you have a high level of understanding of car mechanics to avoid damaging your vehicle.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Picking a camshaft profile is a compromise between performance and idle quality, based on your individual driving requirements.
After you buy a camshaft and you are ready to install it, purchase a Cam Degree Kit and set up the camshaft according to the manufacturer's specifications.
References
- Photo Credit yellow car, a honda japanese sport car model image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com
