Table of Contents
The 350 small block Chevy engine is a popular choice among car enthusiasts and builders seeking to achieve impressive horsepower levels. One of the most critical components in achieving the desired performance is the camshaft. Selecting the right camshaft can significantly impact the engine’s power output, torque curve, and overall drivability. In this article, we will explore the best camshaft choices for 350 small block Chevy builds, focusing on options that can help achieve horsepower levels ranging from 300 to 450 HP.
Understanding Camshaft Basics
Before diving into specific camshaft choices, it’s essential to understand the basics of camshafts and how they affect engine performance. A camshaft controls the timing and duration of the intake and exhaust valves, which directly influences the engine’s airflow and power output.
- Lift: Refers to how far the valve opens, affecting airflow and power.
- Duration: The time the valve stays open, influencing the engine’s RPM range.
- Overlap: The period when both intake and exhaust valves are open, impacting idle quality and performance.
Camshaft Recommendations for 300 to 450 HP
300 to 350 HP Builds
For builds aiming for 300 to 350 horsepower, a mild camshaft is recommended. These camshafts provide a good balance of power and drivability, making them suitable for street use.
- Summit Racing SUM-1104: With a lift of .420” and a duration of 204° at .050”, this cam offers a great torque curve while maintaining good street manners.
- Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 12-202-2: This cam provides a lift of .480” and a duration of 218° at .050”, giving a noticeable power increase without sacrificing drivability.
350 to 400 HP Builds
For those looking to push their builds to 350 to 400 horsepower, a more aggressive camshaft is necessary. These cams provide higher lift and longer duration, enhancing airflow and power at higher RPMs.
- Comp Cams 12-242-2: With a lift of .480” and a duration of 224° at .050”, this cam is perfect for street/strip applications, providing a noticeable power boost.
- Edelbrock Performer RPM: This cam features a lift of .487” and a duration of 230° at .050”, suitable for higher RPM performance while still being street-friendly.
400 to 450 HP Builds
For high-performance builds aiming for 400 to 450 horsepower, a high-lift camshaft with a long duration is essential. These camshafts are designed for maximum performance and may require additional modifications to the engine.
- Howards Cams 110201-12: This cam offers a lift of .510” and a duration of 230° at .050”, providing excellent power at higher RPMs.
- Comp Cams 12-601-5: With a lift of .600” and a duration of 240° at .050”, this cam is ideal for serious performance enthusiasts looking to maximize horsepower.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Camshaft
When selecting a camshaft for your 350 small block Chevy build, several factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Engine Specs: Understand your engine’s compression ratio, head flow, and intended use.
- Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles may require more torque-oriented camshafts.
- Transmission Type: Consider whether you have an automatic or manual transmission as it affects power band preferences.
- Fuel Type: Higher performance cams may require premium fuel to achieve optimal performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right camshaft for your 350 small block Chevy build is crucial for achieving your desired horsepower goals. Whether you’re building for street use or high-performance applications, there are camshaft options available to suit your needs. By understanding the basics of camshafts and considering the specific requirements of your build, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your engine’s performance and drivability.