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The Camaro 350 small block engine has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts looking to enhance performance without the complexities of forced induction. For those aiming for around 450 horsepower, selecting the right camshaft and intake manifold is crucial. This article will explore the best cam and intake combinations that can help you achieve this power target while maintaining reliability.
Understanding the Camaro 350 Small Block
The Chevrolet Camaro 350 small block is renowned for its versatility and performance potential. With a robust design, this engine can be modified to produce impressive horsepower figures. To achieve a target of 450 HP, it’s essential to understand the components that contribute to engine performance.
Key Components for Performance Builds
- Camshaft
- Intake Manifold
- Headers
- Fuel System
- Exhaust System
Choosing the Right Camshaft
The camshaft plays a pivotal role in determining the engine’s power band and overall performance. For a 450 HP build, you should consider a camshaft that offers a good balance between lift, duration, and lobe separation angle.
- Lift: Aim for a lift between 0.500″ and 0.600″.
- Duration: Look for a duration between 230° and 250° at 0.050″.
- Lobe Separation Angle: A range of 110° to 114° is optimal.
Some popular camshaft options for achieving 450 HP include:
- Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 274H
- Howard’s Cams 284060-10
- Summit Racing SUM-8700
Intake Manifold Selection
The intake manifold is another critical component that affects airflow and engine performance. For a 350 small block aiming for 450 HP, a high-performance intake manifold is essential.
- Type: Choose a dual-plane or single-plane manifold based on your power band preference.
- Material: Aluminum is preferred for its weight savings and thermal properties.
Recommended intake manifolds include:
- Edelbrock Performer RPM
- Holley Street Dominator
- Weiand Stealth Ram
Supporting Modifications
To ensure your Camaro 350 small block can reliably produce 450 HP, additional modifications are often necessary. These include upgrading the fuel system, exhaust, and headers.
Fuel System Upgrades
A high-performance fuel system is vital for supporting increased horsepower. Consider upgrading to a higher-flow fuel pump and injectors that can deliver the necessary fuel volume.
- Fuel Pump: Look for a pump rated for at least 255 LPH.
- Injectors: Aim for 30 lb/hr or larger.
Exhaust System Enhancements
A well-designed exhaust system is crucial for maximizing engine efficiency and power. Upgrading to headers and a high-flow exhaust system can significantly improve performance.
- Headers: Long tube headers are ideal for maximizing exhaust flow.
- Exhaust System: A 3-inch diameter exhaust system can help reduce back pressure.
Tuning for Optimal Performance
After installing the camshaft, intake manifold, and supporting modifications, proper tuning is essential to reach your horsepower goals. A professional tune can optimize air-fuel ratios and ignition timing for maximum performance.
Dyno Testing
Consider scheduling a dyno session to measure your Camaro’s performance. This will help you identify any adjustments needed to achieve your desired horsepower.
Conclusion
Building a Camaro 350 small block to produce 450 HP is an exciting project that requires careful selection of components. By choosing the right camshaft and intake manifold, along with supporting modifications, you can create a powerful and reliable engine that delivers thrilling performance on the road or track.