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The world of automotive performance is filled with enthusiasts eager to enhance their vehicles. Among the many upgrades available, camshaft kits stand out as a popular choice for those looking to boost their engine’s power and efficiency. Recently, I had the opportunity to install a $1,200 Summit Racing Cam Kit in my Chevy 350, and the transformation was remarkable. Here’s my review of the process and the results.
Why Choose a Cam Kit?
Camshaft upgrades are essential for increasing horsepower and torque in an engine. The camshaft controls the timing and duration of the engine’s intake and exhaust valves, which directly impacts performance. Here are some reasons why I decided to invest in a cam kit:
- Increased Power: A performance camshaft can significantly boost horsepower and torque.
- Improved Throttle Response: Enhanced cam profiles lead to better engine responsiveness.
- Sound Enhancement: A new cam can give the engine a more aggressive sound, which is appealing to many car enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Summit Racing Cam Kit
Summit Racing offers a variety of cam kits, each designed for specific performance goals. I opted for the Summit Racing K1103, which is designed for street performance and offers a good balance between power and drivability. Here’s what I considered when making my choice:
- Engine Specifications: I ensured the cam matched my engine’s specifications for optimal performance.
- Driving Style: The cam’s characteristics should align with how I intended to use my vehicle.
- Installation Requirements: I reviewed the installation complexity and whether I needed additional components.
Installation Process
The installation of the cam kit was straightforward but required attention to detail. Here’s a breakdown of the steps I took:
- Preparation: I gathered all necessary tools and parts, including gaskets and oil.
- Removing the Old Cam: I drained the oil and removed the intake manifold, timing cover, and old camshaft.
- Installing the New Cam: I carefully followed the instructions to install the Summit Racing cam, ensuring proper alignment.
- Reassembly: After installing the new cam, I reassembled all components, double-checking torque specifications.
- Testing: I filled the engine with oil and started it, listening for any abnormal sounds.
Performance Results
After the installation, the performance improvements were immediately noticeable. Here’s how the Summit Racing Cam Kit transformed my 350:
- Horsepower Increase: I experienced a significant increase in horsepower, especially at higher RPMs.
- Torque Boost: The low-end torque improved, making my vehicle more responsive during acceleration.
- Exhaust Note: The engine produced a deeper, more aggressive sound that enhanced the driving experience.
Real Owner Feedback
To provide a more comprehensive view, I reached out to other Summit Racing cam kit owners. Here’s what they had to say:
- Increased Fuel Efficiency: Some owners reported better fuel economy under certain driving conditions.
- Reliability: Many emphasized the durability of the Summit cam kits, even under high-performance use.
- Customer Support: Several users praised Summit Racing for their responsive customer service and support during installation.
Conclusion
Investing in a $1,200 Summit Racing Cam Kit for my Chevy 350 was a decision I do not regret. The performance enhancements, combined with the positive feedback from fellow enthusiasts, reaffirmed that this upgrade was worth every penny. If you’re considering a camshaft upgrade, I highly recommend exploring Summit Racing’s offerings. Your engine will thank you!