Introduction

Upgrading the camshaft in your Chevelle SS is one of the most effective ways to unlock substantial horsepower and torque. The Edelbrock Performer RPM camshaft is a proven choice for Chevelle owners seeking a noticeable power increase across the mid-range and top end, while maintaining decent street manners. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough for installing this camshaft, covering everything from necessary tools to break-in procedures. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a dedicated hobbyist, following these instructions will help ensure a successful installation and lasting performance gains.

Why Choose the Edelbrock Performer RPM Camshaft?

The Edelbrock Performer RPM camshaft is specifically designed for high-performance street engines with a rpm range of 1,500 to 6,500. It offers a balance of drivability and power that works well with Chevelle SS models, especially when paired with dual-plane intake manifolds and headers. The camshaft features a duration of 284°/296° (advertised) and .502"/.520" lift (with 1.5 rocker arms), providing a noticeable lope at idle and strong pull through the power band. For a small-block Chevelle SS, this camshaft can deliver an estimated gain of 30-50 horsepower, depending on the cylinder heads and compression ratio. It’s a popular upgrade because it does not require extensive modifications to the valve train, but it does demand careful installation and tuning to realize its full potential.

Tools and Materials Needed

Having the right tools and parts on hand before you begin will save time and prevent frustration. Here’s a comprehensive list:

  • Edelbrock Performer RPM Camshaft (part number 2102 for small-block Chevy)
  • Complete gasket set (intake manifold, valve cover, timing cover, oil pan)
  • Timing chain and gears (double-roller recommended for durability)
  • New lifters (flat-tappet hydraulic; do not reuse old ones)
  • Camshaft installation tool (or a long bolt/stud to guide the cam)
  • Torque wrench (ft-lb and in-lb ranges)
  • Socket set (metric and standard, including deep sockets for spark plugs)
  • Valve spring compressor (on-head style for easier access)
  • Engine assembly lube (high-zinc or high-phosphorus optional for flat-tappet break-in)
  • New engine oil (premium 10W-30 or 10W-40 with adequate ZDDP for flat-tappet cam break-in)
  • Oil filter and oil pump primer tool (if oil pump was disturbed)
  • Plastic gauge (for checking lifter preload if adjusting rocker arms)
  • Feeler gauges and timing light
  • Shop manual or torque specification sheet for your Chevelle SS engine (e.g., 350 or 454)

Optionally, a camshaft degree kit can help verify the cam’s installed position for optimal performance. For this guide, we will assume the cam is installed “straight up” (no advance or retard).

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is critical to avoid damaging the new camshaft and to make the installation as smooth as possible. Start with a clean, well-lit workspace and a level floor. Disconnect the battery’s negative terminal and drain the coolant if you need to remove the radiator for clearance (often necessary on Chevelle SS models with a stock radiator support). Remove the hood for better access, though it’s optional if you’re comfortable working in a tight engine bay. For this guide, we will assume the engine is in the vehicle; however, removing the engine makes cam installation far easier and is recommended for first-timers.

If the engine is in the car, you may need to remove the radiator and fan shroud, the serpentine or V-belt system, and possibly the A/C compressor bracket to gain enough space. Mark all brackets and hoses before removal to simplify reassembly.

Removing the Old Camshaft

Removing the old camshaft requires disassembling the front of the engine. Follow these steps in order:

  • Drain the oil and remove the oil pan. On many Chevelle SS models, the oil pan can be removed with the engine in the car by raising the engine slightly. Alternatively, if you have a pan with a baffle, you may need to remove the oil pump pickup tube first.
  • Remove the timing cover and timing chain. Use a harmonic balancer puller to remove the balancer. Then unbolt the timing cover. If the timing chain is worn, replace it with the new double-roller set. Remove the camshaft sprocket – note that on small-block Chevys, the camshaft is retained by a thrust plate, which you must unbolt before pulling the cam.
  • Remove the intake manifold and cylinder heads. You can often remove the intake manifold without removing the heads, but for cam installation, you must remove the cylinder heads. Follow factory torque sequence and loosen bolts gradually. Lift the heads off carefully to avoid damaging the block deck surface.
  • Remove the valve springs. With the heads removed, use a valve spring compressor to remove the springs and retainers. Keep the valves and springs organized for reinstallation. Mark which valve each spring belongs to.
  • Remove the lifters. Use a magnetic rod to extract the old lifters from their bores. Keep them in order if you plan to reuse them (not recommended with a new cam). Discard old lifters and replace with new ones.
  • Pull the old camshaft. Carefully slide the camshaft out of the block toward the front of the engine. Support the cam lobes to avoid scratching the cam bearings. If the cam is tight, rotate it slightly while pulling.

Clean the camshaft bore and all gasket surfaces thoroughly. Inspect the cam bearings for scoring or wear – if they are damaged, the camshaft may not turn freely, and you should replace the bearings before installing the new cam.

Inspecting and Prepping the New Edelbrock Performer RPM Camshaft

Before installation, examine the new camshaft for any shipping damage. Check that the lobes are smooth and the distributor drive gear is intact. Apply a generous coat of high-quality camshaft assembly lube to the cam lobes, journals, and distributor gear. This lube contains extreme-pressure additives that protect the cam during the first few seconds of start-up. Do not skimp on this step.

Also lightly oil the cam bearings in the block. Use new lifters and lubricate their bases with the same assembly lube. Flat-tappet lifters must be replaced with any cam change; never reuse old lifters with a new camshaft.

Installing the Edelbrock Performer RPM Camshaft

With the lifter valley and cam bore clean, carefully slide the new camshaft into the block. Use a cam installation tool (a long bolt threaded into the cam nose with a handle) to control the cam and prevent damage to the bearings. Gently work the cam into place until the thrust plate aligns with the front of the block. Install the thrust plate bolts and torque them to 8-10 ft-lb.

Next, install the new timing chain and gears. Align the timing marks on the crank and cam sprockets according to the manufacturer’s instructions – typically, the marks are lined up facing each other with the chain installed. On a small-block Chevy, the cam sprocket mark aligns with the crank sprocket mark when the piston is at top dead center (TDC) compression for cylinder #1. Rotate the engine by hand two full revolutions to verify that the timing marks realign and that there is no binding. If the chain is tight, you may need to degree the cam to ensure the lobe centerlines are correct – but for the average builder, installing straight up is acceptable.

Install the timing cover with a new seal and a thin bead of RTV silicone at the oil pan-to-timing cover joint. Torque the cover bolts to 8-10 ft-lb.

Reinstall the cylinder heads with new gaskets. Torque the head bolts in the factory sequence to the proper specification for your engine (e.g., small-block Chevy: 65 ft-lb for iron heads, or 30 ft-lb for aluminum heads plus a 60-degree angle turn). Always use a torque wrench.

Install the lifters into their bores, ensuring they are fully seated. If you are using hydraulic lifters, you can install them now; they should be pre-oiled with assembly lube.

Install the pushrods and rocker arms. Adjust the rocker arm preload according to the manufacturer’s specifications. For Edelbrock Performer RPM cam with standard rockers, a preload of 1/2 turn past zero lash is typical. Double-check that all valves move freely.

Reassembling the Engine

Now reassemble the rest of the engine in reverse order of disassembly:

  • Intake manifold: Use a high-quality gasket and apply a thin layer of RTV at the corners where the intake meets the China wall. Torque the manifold bolts to factory specs (usually 30-35 ft-lb, working from the center outward).
  • Oil pump and oil pan: If you removed the oil pump pickup, ensure it is properly positioned. Install the oil pan with a new gasket and torque to 100-120 in-lb (not ft-lb). Reinstall the oil filter.
  • Valve covers and timing cover: New gaskets are recommended. Torque valve cover bolts lightly (60-80 in-lb) to avoid leaks.
  • Accessories: Reinstall the harmonic balancer, alternator, belts, and radiator. Refill coolant and check for any loose connections.
  • Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal.

Before adding engine oil, verify that the distributor is installed correctly. On small-block Chevys, the distributor gear meshes with the camshaft; rotate the engine until cylinder #1 is at TDC compression, and install the distributor with the rotor pointing to the #1 position. This will save time later.

Initial Start-Up and Break-In Procedure

This is the most critical step for flat-tappet camshafts. The Edelbrock Performer RPM cam requires a proper break-in to prevent lobe wear. Use engine oil with high ZDDP (zinc and phosphorus) levels. Add a break-in oil additive if your oil is not specifically formulated for flat-tappet cams. Do not use synthetic oil during break-in.

Prime the oil pump using an electric drill and a priming tool until oil flows from the pushrods. This ensures the cam and lifters are lubricated immediately at startup. If you cannot prime, the engine must be cranked with the ignition disabled – but priming is safer.

Start the engine and bring it to 2,000-2,500 rpm immediately. Do not let it idle for the first 20 minutes. Vary the rpm between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm, avoiding sustained high speed or low idle. This cycles oil and loads the lifters onto the cam lobes properly. After 20 minutes, let the engine idle and check for leaks, unusual noises, and oil pressure. Adjust idle mixture and timing as needed. If you hear any ticking that does not go away after a few minutes, suspect a lifter issue – shut down and investigate.

Timing and Tuning

After break-in, set the initial timing according to the camshaft’s requirements. The Edelbrock Performer RPM cam typically likes an initial timing of 14-18 degrees BTDC, with a total mechanical advance of 34-36 degrees (all in by 3,000 rpm). Use a timing light and a vacuum gauge to dial in the idle. Adjust the carburetor’s idle mixture screws for best vacuum (usually around 18-20 inHg). Fine-tuning the air-fuel ratio will maximize the power gains from your new cam.

If your Chevelle SS has a computer-controlled ignition (e.g., HEI with a vacuum advance), connect the vacuum advance to manifold vacuum for better idle and throttle response.

Test Drive and Performance Expectations

With the engine idling smoothly, take the car for a gentle test drive. Gradually increase rpm to confirm no abnormal noises. After a few miles, perform a few wide-open-throttle pulls to feel the power difference. You should notice a stronger pull from 2,500 rpm upward, with a more aggressive cam lope at idle. Expect improved acceleration in the 3,000-6,000 rpm range. The engine may feel less powerful below 2,000 rpm due to the cam’s intake closing event – this is normal. Ensure the cooling system and fuel system are up to the task.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the engine runs poorly after installation, check these common problems:

  • Lifter noise: Preload too tight or too loose; recheck rocker arm adjustment.
  • Vacuum leak: Spray carburetor cleaner around intake manifold gaskets – if rpm changes, replace the gasket.
  • Overheating: Verify timing is not too advanced; ensure cooling system is adequate for higher power output.
  • Oil leaks: Check the timing cover seal, oil pan gasket, and valve cover gaskets.
  • No oil pressure: Prime again; check oil pump pickup tube for blockage.

If you encounter persistent issues, consult a professional engine builder or refer to the Edelbrock technical support for specific cam timing data.

Conclusion

Installing the Edelbrock Performer RPM camshaft in your Chevelle SS is a hands-on project that rewards you with a noticeable power increase and a satisfyingly aggressive idle. By following this comprehensive guide – from careful removal of the old components through proper break-in procedures – you can achieve reliable, high-performance results. Remember to take your time, use quality parts and lubricants, and verify all tolerances. For additional resources, check out forums like Chevelle Tech or the Summit Racing page for this cam for user tips and dyno results. With the Edelbrock Performer RPM camshaft, your Chevelle SS will run stronger than ever.