Understanding the Edelbrock Performer RPM 396 Cam

The Edelbrock Performer RPM 396 camshaft (part number 2102) is a hydraulic flat-tappet cam designed for small-block Chevrolet engines, typically in the 350–406 cubic inch range. It delivers strong mid-range torque and top-end horsepower, making it a popular choice for street performance and mild strip use. The cam specifications include 234/238 degrees duration at .050 inch lift, .487/.493 inch valve lift, and a 110-degree lobe separation angle. This profile works best with a compression ratio of 9.5:1 to 10.5:1, a dual-plane intake manifold, and headers. Understanding these numbers helps you anticipate the engine's character: a noticeable idle lope, strong pull from 2,500 to 6,500 rpm, and a need for a stall converter around 2,800–3,200 rpm if equipped with an automatic transmission.

Tools and Materials Needed

Beyond the basic list, having the right specialty tools will save time and prevent errors. Gather the following before starting:

  • Edelbrock Performer RPM 396 Camshaft (complete with lifters and cam lube) – Use the cam card included for precise valve timing.
  • Camshaft installation tool (long bolt with washer) – Avoids damaging cam bearings during insertion.
  • Torque wrench (1/2-inch drive, 0-150 ft-lb range) – For cam sprocket and timing chain bolts.
  • Torque wrench (3/8-inch drive, 0-50 ft-lb range) – For intake manifold and valve covers.
  • Socket set (standard and deep, metric and SAE) – SBC fasteners are mostly SAE (3/8, 7/16, 1/2 inch).
  • Engine oil (high-zinc break-in oil like Valvoline VR1 or Lucas Hot Rod oil) – Flat-tappet cams require zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP) for cam lobe protection.
  • Moly assembly lube (e.g., Isky Rev-Lube or Edelbrock Super-Lube) – Critical for initial start-up.
  • Timing chain and gear set (Cloyes, Edelbrock, or OEM-style) – Use a true roller set for durability.
  • Gasket set (Fel-Pro or Edelbrock) – Includes intake manifold gaskets, timing cover gasket, valve cover gaskets, and water neck gasket.
  • Seal puller and harmonic balancer puller/installer – To remove and reinstall the front damper without damage.
  • Degree wheel and dial indicator (optional but recommended) – Verify cam timing for optimal performance.
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, pick-up tool – Keep debris out of the engine.
  • Safety glasses, mechanic’s gloves, and a fire extinguisher – Always be prepared.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation prevents common installation mistakes. Follow these steps in order:

  • Set the engine to Top Dead Center (TDC) on the compression stroke for cylinder #1. Remove the spark plugs to make turning easier, and align the timing mark on the balancer to zero. Verify by feeling compression with your thumb over the #1 spark plug hole while rotating the engine.
  • Disconnect the battery negative terminal – eliminates accidental starter engagement and protects the ECM if equipped.
  • Drain the coolant – if you need to remove the intake manifold, drain the radiator first.
  • Remove the intake manifold, valve covers, and distributor. Mark the distributor rotor position so you can reinstall it without losing ignition timing.
  • Remove the harmonic balancer and timing cover. Use a puller for the balancer; never hammer it off.
  • Remove the timing chain and cam sprocket after loosening the cam bolt. Keep the keyway intact.
  • Note the position of any existing cam retaining plate (if used on older engines). Newer blocks use a thrust plate; remove it before pulling the cam.
  • Thoroughly clean the entire front of the engine block – oil, old gasket material, and any debris must be gone. Use brake cleaner and a plastic scraper.

Removing the Old Camshaft

The old camshaft removal requires careful handling to avoid damaging cam bearings or the block.
Step 1: After removing the timing chain and sprocket, unbolt the cam retaining plate (usually 4 bolts).
Step 2: Screw a long bolt (3/8-24 thread, 6 inches long) into the cam snout to act as a handle. Pull the cam straight out, rotating it slightly as you extract it to clear the cam bearings.
Step 3: Inspect the old cam lobes for wear – if you see significant scoring or flat lobes, inspect the lifters and oil pump as well. Replace lifters always when changing cams.
Step 4: Clean the cam tunnel with a lint-free cloth and brake fluid. Check for loose debris or metal particles. If the cam bearings are damaged, the block must be machined before installing your new cam.

Installing the Edelbrock Performer RPM 396 Cam

Now for the heart of the job. Follow these steps precisely:

  • Apply a generous coat of moly assembly lube to each cam lobe and the distributor drive gear. Do not use engine oil alone – it lacks the extreme-pressure properties needed for initial start-up.
  • Oil the cam journals lightly with engine oil.
  • Carefully slide the camshaft into the block using the installation tool. Rotate the cam as you push to match the gear teeth. Avoid scraping against the cam bearings. Go slowly.
  • Once fully seated, install the cam retaining plate with its bolts. Torque to specifications (typically 10–15 ft-lb).
  • Install the timing chain and sprockets. Align the dots on the cam and crankshaft sprockets at TDC. A true roller chain reduces stretch. Torque the cam sprocket bolt to 50–60 ft-lb (use thread locker if specified by manufacturer).
  • Double-check cam timing – after tightening, rotate the engine two full turns by hand. The timing marks should realign perfectly. If not, the chain is off by a tooth. Recheck.
  • Apply a thin bead of RTV silicone to the timing cover gasket where the cover meets the block and pan rail. Install the timing cover with a new seal. Torque to 8–10 ft-lb (small bolts).
  • Install the harmonic balancer using an install tool. Lubricate the seal surface with engine oil. Never hammer the balancer onto the crank – it can damage the thrust bearing.
  • Set the engine to TDC again and install the distributor with the rotor pointing to the #1 spark plug wire terminal. Temporarily set ignition timing to 10–12 degrees BTDC.

For maximum performance, use a degree wheel and dial indicator to verify the intake centerline. Edelbrock specifies that the intake lobe centerline should be installed at 106 degrees. If the measured number is off, you can adjust with offset cam keys. This step ensures the cam’s arrival matches the engine’s harmonic and compression needs.

Camshaft Break-In Procedure

Hydraulic flat-tappet cams require a strict break-in process to prevent lobe failure. Follow this procedure the first time you start the engine:

  • Fill the engine with break-in oil (high ZDDP). Pre-oil the engine by spinning the oil pump with a drill and priming tool until oil appears at all rocker arms.
  • Install new lifters (always, never reuse old ones). Apply moly lube to the lifter bases. Adjust valve lash initially to zero lash plus 1/2 turn preload.
  • Set ignition timing to 12 degrees BTDC.
  • Start the engine and immediately raise RPM to 2,500–3,000 – do not let it idle. Vary the RPM between 2,000 and 3,000 for 20 minutes. This loads the cam lobes to help the lifter face wear in properly.
  • Monitor oil pressure – it should be above 30 psi hot at 2,000 RPM. If oil pressure drops, shut down immediately.
  • After 20 minutes, let the engine idle for 15–30 seconds, then shut it off. Re-torque the intake manifold and valve covers after the first heat cycle.
  • Change the oil and filter after the first 20 minutes, then again after 500 miles. Use a high-quality conventional oil for the first 500 miles, then switch to synthetic if desired.

Reassembling the Engine

With the cam and timing set installed, reassemble the top end:

  • Install the intake manifold with new gaskets. Use a thin bead of RTV at the front and rear intake manifold block seals. Torque the bolts in the factory sequence (typically starting from the center and working outward) to 35–40 ft-lb for iron heads, 25–30 ft-lb for aluminum.
  • Install the valve covers with new gaskets. Torque to 4–6 ft-lb; over-tightening warps stamped steel covers.
  • Reconnect all vacuum lines, coolant hoses, and electrical connectors. Use new heater hose if the old are brittle.
  • Reinstall the distributor and plug wires. Route wires away from exhaust headers using heat-resistant separators.
  • Refill coolant and check for leaks.

Final Checks and Testing

Before the first start, run through this checklist:

  • Verify that no tools, rags, or loose parts remain in the engine bay.
  • Reconnect the battery and check all ground straps.
  • Check oil level – fill to the full mark. The cam break-in oil may need extra as it circulates.
  • Prime the fuel system – if carbureted, fill the float bowls; if EFI, cycle the pump to get fuel pressure.
  • Crank the engine without starting (disable ignition or fuel) to build oil pressure. Wait until the oil pressure gauge shows at least 15 psi before attempting to start.
  • Start and break in per the procedure above.
  • After break-in, check for exhaust leaks at headers, intake vacuum leaks, and fluid leaks.
  • Set final ignition timing with a timing light – typically 34–36 degrees total advance at 3,500 RPM (with vacuum advance disconnected).

Performance Expectations and Tuning

The Edelbrock Performer RPM 396 cam will give your small-block a distinctive idle with roughly 12–15 inches of vacuum at idle in gear. It pulls strongly from 2,500 rpm to 6,500 rpm. For best results, pair it with a performer RPM dual-plane intake, a 650–750 cfm carburetor, and 1 5/8-inch long-tube headers. You may need to install a higher-stall torque converter (2,800–3,200 stall) to keep the engine in the power band. If you retain a stock converter, the car will feel sluggish off-idle. Also, check that your valve springs are suitable for the .490+ lift – edelbrock recommends their #5604 or #5651 springs. Adjust rocker arm geometry if using aftermarket heads. For more detailed specifications, visit Edelbrock's official product page.

Conclusion

Installing the Edelbrock Performer RPM 396 Cam is a rewarding project that transforms your engine's character. By following this detailed guide – from preparation and removal to installation and break-in – you ensure a long-lived, high-performance camshaft upgrade. Always cross-reference your engine’s specifics with the cam card and consider consulting a professional installation guide from Jegs or Summit Racing’s tech support for further assistance. Enjoy the new power and that aggressive cam lope – you’ve earned it.