The Chevrolet Camaro has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts, particularly the models equipped with the 350 small block engine. With a little bit of modification, you can significantly increase the horsepower output of your Camaro. In this article, we will explore the top power modifications you can make to your Camaro 350 small block to boost its output to over 500 horsepower, focusing on the Edelbrock intake and a 750 CFM carburetor. Achieving 500+ hp from a small block 350 is a realistic goal when you select parts that work together. This guide covers the essential upgrades, from the intake and carburetor to the camshaft, cylinder heads, and exhaust system. We’ll also discuss tuning and supporting modifications to ensure your build is reliable and drivable on the street or strip.

Understanding the Camaro 350 Small Block

The 350 small block is known for its versatility and performance potential. This engine has been a staple in the Chevrolet lineup since the late 1960s. With a displacement of 5.7 liters (350 cubic inches), it is capable of delivering impressive power when properly modified. The aftermarket support for the Chevy 350 is enormous, with parts available to suit nearly any budget and power goal. The foundation of a 500+ hp build starts with a good block—typically a four-bolt main version is stronger, but two-bolt mains can also handle the power with proper machining. Stock heads, cam, and intake will not get you to 500 hp. You need to improve airflow and increase the engine’s ability to burn fuel efficiently.

The standard bore is 4.000 inches, and stroke is 3.480 inches. For a naturally aspirated 500 hp build, you’ll need a combination that flows enough air and produces the right cylinder pressure. Many builders use a 0.030 oversize bore to increase displacement slightly. We’ll focus on parts that work with a 350 block, though some modifications (like high-compression pistons) may require a change to the rotating assembly.

Key Modifications to Achieve 500+ HP

To reach the coveted 500 horsepower mark, several key modifications are necessary. Here are the most effective upgrades, starting with the intake and carburetor:

  • Edelbrock Performer RPM Intake Manifold
  • 750 CFM Carburetor
  • High-Performance Camshaft
  • Headers and Exhaust System Upgrade
  • High-Compression Pistons

Edelbrock Performer RPM Intake Manifold

The Edelbrock Performer RPM intake manifold is designed to enhance airflow and improve performance at higher RPMs. This manifold allows for better fuel distribution and increased horsepower. It fits perfectly on the 350 small block and is a must-have for anyone looking to boost engine performance. The Performer RPM series is made of aluminum and offers a dual-plane design that provides good low-end torque while still flowing enough for high-RPM power. For a 500 hp build, the Edelbrock Performer RPM 7101 (for non-EGR applications) or the similar 7104 (with EGR provisions) are excellent choices. They are designed to work with square-bore carburetors and accept standard-height air cleaners. The manifold raises the engine’s power band, which pairs well with a camshaft that shifts torque higher in the RPM range.

Pairing this intake with a Performer RPM intake from Edelbrock gives you a head start on airflow. For maximum power, you may also consider port matching the intake to the cylinder heads to reduce flow restriction.

750 CFM Carburetor

A 750 CFM carburetor is essential for maximizing the air-fuel mixture entering the engine. The increased flow allows for greater combustion efficiency, which translates into more power. Pairing the Edelbrock intake with a high-quality 750 CFM carburetor can make a significant difference in performance. The 750 CFM rating matches the engine’s requirements for 500+ hp at 6000–6500 RPM. The Edelbrock Performer Series 750 CFM carburetor (part number 1407) is a popular choice, as it provides smooth throttle response and easy tuning. Alternatively, a Holley 750 CFM double-pumper carburetor (such as Holley 0-4779S) offers mechanical secondaries for better top-end performance. Both work well on the Performer RPM manifold.

When using a 750 CFM carburetor, ensure your fuel delivery system can supply enough volume and pressure. A high-flow mechanical fuel pump (like a Holley Blue pump) or an electric pump with a regulator is recommended. Tuning the carburetor with proper jetting and air bleeds is critical; you can find tuning guides online, such as Holley carburetor tuning tips. The carburetor should be matched to the camshaft’s vacuum signal—more aggressive cams may require a vacuum secondary or a tuned accelerator pump circuit.

High-Performance Camshaft

Upgrading to a camshaft designed for higher RPMs will improve valve timing and lift, allowing for better airflow. For a 500 hp street/strip build, consider a camshaft with around 230–240 degrees of duration at 0.050 inch lift and 0.480–0.520 inch lift. A popular choice is the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 268H or the XE274H. These cams provide the necessary overlap and lift to wake up the top end. However, you must also upgrade the valve springs to match the cam lift and use properly hardened pushrods, rocker arms, and timing chain. A roller cam conversion increases power and reliability but adds cost. For a flat-tappet cam, ensure you use high-zinc break-in oil.

The camshaft must be compatible with the cylinder heads and intake valve lift. If you’re using stock heads, you may need to machine the valve guides for clearance. Many builders choose aftermarket aluminum heads (like AFR, Brodix, or Dart) that offer better flow out of the box. A good camshaft matched to the heads is the heart of the 500 hp formula.

Headers and Exhaust System Upgrade

Installing long-tube headers and a high-flow exhaust system can reduce back pressure and enhance engine breathing. For a Camaro, 1 5/8 inch or 1 3/4 inch primary tubes with a 3-inch collector are common. Long-tube headers like Hedman 68300 or Hooker 2110-1HKR fit most Camaro chassis. Pair them with a true dual exhaust using 2.5 or 3-inch pipes, an X or H-pipe crossover, and performance mufflers (Flowmaster 40 series or Borla). This setup not only adds horsepower but also improves throttle response and sound.

A full exhaust system that flows freely helps scavenge exhaust gases from the cylinders. If you’re also adding a camshaft with overlap, the right header length and collector diameter become critical for torque production. Many dyno tests show 15–25 hp gains from properly sized headers on a 350.

High-Compression Pistons

By increasing the compression ratio, you can extract more power from each combustion cycle. For a 500 hp naturally aspirated 350, aim for a static compression ratio between 10.0:1 and 10.5:1 with aluminum heads, or up to 9.5:1 with iron heads. Use forged pistons like Speed-Pro hypereutectic or JE/SRP forged pistons to handle the heat and pressure. You may need to deck the block and use specific head gaskets to achieve the desired quench height. High compression requires premium fuel (93 octane or higher) to avoid detonation. If you plan to use a supercharger or nitrous later, lower the compression to 8.5–9.0:1.

Additional Performance Enhancements

Beyond the intake and carburetor, several other modifications can help you achieve and maintain that 500+ horsepower goal. Here are some additional enhancements to consider:

  • Performance Cylinder Heads: Upgrading to aluminum aftermarket heads (like AFR 195 or 210 cc) improves flow significantly over iron castings. They also reduce weight and allow higher compression without detonation.
  • Ignition System Upgrade: A high-energy ignition (MSD or Accel) with a coil, control box, and proper timing curve ensures spark delivery at high RPM. Use a 6AL or 6AL-2 box for a rev limiter.
  • Fuel System Upgrades: A high-flow mechanical or electric pump, larger fuel lines (3/8-inch minimum), and a good regulator handle the increased fuel demand.
  • Valve Train Stability: Use high-quality rocker arms (roller rockers), hardened pushrods, and stud girdles to prevent flex at high RPM.
  • Air Cleaner and Induction: A low-restriction air cleaner (like a K&N XStream) and a cold air intake system help feed the carburetor with cool air.
  • Cooling System: A high-flow water pump and aluminum radiator ensure the engine stays cool under heavy load.

Each of these upgrades supports the core components and prevents bottlenecks. For example, without a good ignition, you won’t burn all the fuel from the 750 CFM carburetor. Without proper cooling, detonation can occur, limiting power.

Putting It All Together: Tuning and Balancing

Reaching 500 hp requires not just parts but careful tuning. Once you have the Edelbrock intake, 750 CFM carburetor, camshaft, headers, and pistons installed, you must set the ignition timing and carburetor calibration. Start with initial timing around 12–14 degrees BTDC, with total timing (mechanical plus centrifugal) of 34–36 degrees at 3000–3500 RPM. Use a vacuum advance can if your camshaft provides enough vacuum at idle (usually over 10–12 inches Hg). If the cam is aggressive, locked-out timing may be needed.

Carburetor tuning involves adjusting idle mixture screws, idle speed, accelerator pump shot, and main jet size. Use a wideband oxygen sensor to monitor air-fuel ratio; aim for 12.5–13.0:1 at full throttle for maximum power. A good resource for carburetor tuning is the Edelbrock 1407 product page which includes tuning recommendations. For the Holley, jetting charts are available.

Finally, take the car to a dyno shop for final tuning. A safe 500 hp 350 small block typically runs 525–550 hp on an engine dyno. In a Camaro, driveline losses will put 420–450 hp to the wheels, which is still a very strong street car. Ensure the transmission and rear end can handle the torque: a TH350 or 700R4 with a shift kit, and a 10-bolt rear with 3.73 or 4.10 gears will work for most street applications.

Final Thoughts

Boosting your Camaro 350 small block to over 500 horsepower is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding. By focusing on critical components like the Edelbrock intake and 750 CFM carburetor, alongside other performance modifications such as camshaft, headers, pistons, and heads, you can transform your vehicle into a high-performance machine. Always remember to consider the balance between power and drivability, ensuring that your upgrades enhance your overall driving experience. Street driving with a 500 hp engine requires a careful clutch or torque converter, good gear selection, and decent tires. The modifications described here are proven to work together and can be fine-tuned to your specific Camaro.

With the right modifications, your Camaro can be a true powerhouse on the road or the track. Happy tuning! For additional reading, check out this Chevy Hardcore 500 hp 350 build guide and Hot Rod’s 500 hp small block article for more detailed specifications.