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Top Cam Choices for 350 Vortec Head Engine: A Comprehensive Guide for High-Performance Seekers.

Top Cam Choices for 350 Vortec Head Engine: A Comprehensive Guide for High-Performance Seekers.

Looking for the best cam for your 350 with Vortec heads? Check out our top picks and upgrade your engine's performance today!

Are you looking for the best cam for your 350 with vortec heads? Look no further because we have got you covered. Choosing the right camshaft is critical to maximizing your engine's performance. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose.

Firstly, let's talk about what vortec heads are. Vortec heads are a type of cylinder head produced by General Motors that are known for their excellent airflow and combustion efficiency. These heads were first introduced in the mid-1980s and have been used in various GM vehicles since then.

When it comes to selecting the best cam for your 350 with vortec heads, there are a few factors to consider. The first factor is the duration of the camshaft. Duration refers to the amount of time the valves stay open during the engine's cycle. A longer duration camshaft will allow more air into the engine, resulting in increased power. However, it can also result in a rougher idle and decreased low-end torque.

The second factor to consider is the lift of the camshaft. Lift refers to how high the valve opens. A higher lift camshaft will also allow more air into the engine, resulting in increased power. However, it may require modifications to the valve train to accommodate the increased lift.

Another factor to consider is the lobe separation angle (LSA). The LSA refers to the angle between the intake and exhaust lobes on the camshaft. A wider LSA will result in a smoother idle and improved low-end torque, while a narrower LSA will result in a rougher idle and increased high-end power.

If you're looking for a camshaft that provides a good balance between power and drivability, we recommend the Comp Cams XE262H. This camshaft has a duration of 218/224, a lift of .462/.469, and an LSA of 110 degrees. It provides excellent low-end torque and mid-range power while still allowing for good high-end power.

However, if you're looking for a camshaft that provides maximum power, we recommend the Comp Cams XE268H. This camshaft has a duration of 224/230, a lift of .477/.480, and an LSA of 110 degrees. It provides excellent mid-range and high-end power but may require modifications to the valve train to accommodate the increased lift.

If you're on a budget, we recommend the Summit Racing SUM-K1102 camshaft kit. This kit includes a camshaft with a duration of 204/214, a lift of .420/.442, and an LSA of 112 degrees. While it may not provide the same level of power as the other camshafts mentioned, it is a good option for those looking to upgrade their engine without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, choosing the right camshaft for your 350 with vortec heads can be a daunting task. However, by considering factors such as duration, lift, and LSA, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect camshaft for your needs. Whether you're looking for a balance between power and drivability or maximum power, there is a camshaft out there that will suit your needs.

Introduction

When it comes to upgrading your engine, choosing the right camshaft is critical. The camshaft controls the timing and duration of the valves opening and closing, which directly affects the performance of your engine. If you have a Chevy 350 engine with Vortec heads, you might be wondering what the best camshaft is for your setup. In this article, we will explore some of the best camshafts for a 350 engine with Vortec heads.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Camshaft

Choosing the right camshaft can make a huge difference in the performance of your engine. A camshaft that is too aggressive can cause low-end power loss, while one that is too mild may not provide enough top-end horsepower. It is important to choose a camshaft that is specifically designed for your engine and driving style.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Camshaft

When choosing a camshaft, there are several factors to consider:

  • Intended use of the vehicle
  • Compression ratio
  • Head flow
  • Exhaust system
  • Gear ratio

Intended Use of the Vehicle

The intended use of the vehicle is an important factor to consider when choosing a camshaft. If you use your vehicle primarily for street driving, you will want a camshaft that provides good low-end power and drivability. If you use your vehicle for racing or high-performance driving, you will want a camshaft that provides good top-end horsepower.

Compression Ratio

The compression ratio of your engine is also important when choosing a camshaft. A high compression ratio engine will require a camshaft with more duration and lift to maximize performance. Conversely, a low compression ratio engine will require a milder camshaft to avoid detonation and engine damage.

Head Flow

The flow rate of your cylinder heads is another important factor to consider when choosing a camshaft. If your heads flow well, you can choose a more aggressive camshaft to take advantage of the increased airflow. If your heads have poor flow, you will want a milder camshaft to compensate.

Exhaust System

The exhaust system can also affect the performance of your camshaft. A good exhaust system can help improve the scavenging effect and increase horsepower. If you have a restrictive exhaust system, you will want to choose a milder camshaft to compensate.

Gear Ratio

Your gear ratio can also affect the performance of your camshaft. A higher gear ratio will provide better acceleration and low-end power, while a lower gear ratio will provide better top-end speed. It is important to choose a camshaft that is specifically designed for your gear ratio.

Best Camshafts for a 350 with Vortec Heads

Now that we have discussed some of the factors to consider when choosing a camshaft, let's take a look at some of the best camshafts for a Chevy 350 with Vortec heads:

Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR276HR

The Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR276HR is a great camshaft for street performance. It provides excellent low-end power and drivability, while still delivering good top-end horsepower. This camshaft is designed for engines with a 9.5:1 or higher compression ratio, so it is not suitable for engines with a lower compression ratio.

Lunati Voodoo 60103LK

The Lunati Voodoo 60103LK is another great camshaft for street performance. It provides good low-end power and drivability, while still delivering good top-end horsepower. This camshaft is designed for engines with a 9.5:1 or higher compression ratio, so it is not suitable for engines with a lower compression ratio.

Comp Cams XFI NSR

The Comp Cams XFI NSR is a great camshaft for high-performance driving. It provides excellent top-end horsepower, while still delivering good low-end power and drivability. This camshaft is designed for engines with a 10.5:1 or higher compression ratio, so it is not suitable for engines with a lower compression ratio.

Lunati Voodoo 60104LK

The Lunati Voodoo 60104LK is another great camshaft for high-performance driving. It provides excellent top-end horsepower, while still delivering good low-end power and drivability. This camshaft is designed for engines with a 10.5:1 or higher compression ratio, so it is not suitable for engines with a lower compression ratio.

Conclusion

Choosing the right camshaft for your Chevy 350 engine with Vortec heads is critical for maximizing performance. When choosing a camshaft, consider factors such as the intended use of the vehicle, compression ratio, head flow, exhaust system, and gear ratio. Some of the best camshafts for a 350 engine with Vortec heads include the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR276HR, Lunati Voodoo 60103LK, Comp Cams XFI NSR, and Lunati Voodoo 60104LK. Choose the camshaft that is specifically designed for your engine and driving style to achieve the best performance.

Introduction to Cam Selection for Vortec Heads on a 350 EngineWhen it comes to upgrading the performance of your Chevy 350 engine with Vortec heads, one of the most important modifications you can make is choosing the right camshaft. A camshaft is responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the engine's valves, which in turn affects the amount of air and fuel that enters the combustion chamber. By selecting the right camshaft, you can achieve the perfect balance of power, torque, and drivability for your specific application.But with so many camshaft options available, how do you know which one is right for your 350 with Vortec heads? In this article, we'll explore the top factors to consider when choosing a camshaft, the best camshaft brands for this engine setup, and the benefits of using different types of lifters and camshaft profiles. We'll also provide some tips for installing your new camshaft and achieving the best performance from your engine.Top Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cam for Vortec HeadsBefore you start shopping for a camshaft, it's important to understand the various factors that can affect its performance. Here are some of the top considerations to keep in mind:- Intended use: Are you building a street machine or a race car? Do you want maximum torque for towing or hauling? Your intended use will help determine the type of camshaft profile and lift that's right for your engine.- Compression ratio: The compression ratio of your engine affects the amount of air and fuel that enters the combustion chamber. A higher compression ratio requires a camshaft with a shorter duration and higher lift to compensate.- Rear-end gear ratio: The gear ratio of your rear-end affects the engine's operating range. A lower gear ratio requires a camshaft with a longer duration and lower lift to move the engine into its power band at a lower RPM.- Exhaust system: The size and design of your exhaust system can affect the performance of your camshaft. A free-flowing exhaust system can support a camshaft with higher lift and longer duration, while a restrictive system may require a smaller camshaft.Best Camshaft Brands for 350 with Vortec HeadsWhen it comes to choosing a camshaft for your 350 with Vortec heads, there are several reputable brands to consider:- Comp Cams: Comp Cams is one of the most well-known camshaft manufacturers in the industry, and they offer a wide range of camshafts for various applications. Their Xtreme Energy series is a popular choice for Chevy engines.- Lunati: Lunati is another respected brand that offers a variety of camshafts for Chevy engines. Their Voodoo series is known for its aggressive sound and high-performance capabilities.- Crane Cams: Crane Cams has been in the business for over 60 years and has a reputation for producing high-quality camshafts for racing and street applications. Their Energizer series is a popular choice for Chevy engines.Hydraulic vs. Solid Lifters: Which is Best for Vortec Heads on a 350?One of the biggest decisions you'll need to make when selecting a camshaft for your 350 with Vortec heads is whether to use hydraulic or solid lifters. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each:- Hydraulic lifters: Hydraulic lifters use engine oil to control the valve lash, which makes them quieter and easier to maintain than solid lifters. They're also more forgiving in terms of valve train wear and tear. However, they're not as durable at high RPMs and can't handle as much lift as solid lifters.- Solid lifters: Solid lifters are more durable at high RPMs and can handle more lift than hydraulic lifters. However, they require more maintenance and can be noisier than hydraulic lifters. They're also less forgiving of valve train wear and tear, which means they'll need to be adjusted more frequently.Camshaft Duration and Lift: How to Choose the Right Combination for Vortec HeadsThe duration and lift of your camshaft are two of the most important factors that affect its performance. Duration refers to how long the valves stay open, while lift refers to how far the valves open. Generally speaking, a longer duration and higher lift will result in more power at higher RPMs, but less low-end torque. Here's how to choose the right combination for your Vortec heads on a 350 engine:- Street performance: If you're building a street machine, you'll want a camshaft with a moderate duration and lift. Look for a duration of around 210-220 degrees at 0.050 lift and a lift of around 0.450-0.500. This will provide good low-end torque and drivability without sacrificing too much top-end power.- Racing performance: If you're building a race car, you'll want a camshaft with a longer duration and higher lift. Look for a duration of around 230-240 degrees at 0.050 lift and a lift of around 0.550-0.600. This will provide maximum power at high RPMs, but may sacrifice some low-end torque and drivability.Best Camshaft Profiles for High-Performance 350 with Vortec HeadsIn addition to duration and lift, the profile of your camshaft can also affect its performance. Camshaft profiles are typically categorized as mild, aggressive, or extreme. Here's how to choose the best profile for your high-performance 350 with Vortec heads:- Mild: If you're looking for a camshaft that's easy to drive and provides good all-around performance, a mild profile is your best bet. Look for a camshaft with a smooth idle and good low-end torque.- Aggressive: If you want to maximize your engine's power potential, an aggressive profile is the way to go. Look for a camshaft with a choppy idle and high lift for maximum airflow and power.- Extreme: If you're building a dedicated race car and don't care about streetability, an extreme profile can provide maximum power at high RPMs. However, these camshafts are usually very loud and require a lot of maintenance.Benefits of Using a Roller Camshaft for Vortec Heads on a 350 EngineRoller camshafts have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their superior performance and durability. Here are some of the benefits of using a roller camshaft for your Vortec heads on a 350 engine:- Reduced friction: Roller camshafts use roller bearings instead of sliding contact, which reduces friction and wear on the valve train.- Increased RPM range: Roller camshafts are able to handle higher RPMs than flat tappet camshafts, which can result in more power and better performance.- Improved durability: Roller camshafts are less prone to wear and tear than flat tappet camshafts, which means they'll last longer and require less maintenance.Choosing a Camshaft for Street Performance vs. Racing on a 350 with Vortec HeadsThe type of camshaft you choose for your 350 with Vortec heads will depend largely on your intended use. If you're building a street machine, you'll want a camshaft that provides good low-end torque and drivability without sacrificing too much top-end power. On the other hand, if you're building a race car, you'll want a camshaft that provides maximum power at high RPMs, even if it sacrifices some low-end torque and drivability.Top Tips for Installing a Camshaft on a 350 Vortec Head EngineInstalling a camshaft can be a complex process, but with the right tools and knowledge, it's something you can do yourself. Here are some tips for installing a camshaft on your 350 Vortec head engine:- Use the right tools: You'll need a variety of tools to install a camshaft, including a camshaft installation tool, a dial indicator, and a torque wrench.- Follow the manufacturer's instructions: Every camshaft is different, so make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. This will ensure that you install the camshaft correctly and achieve the best performance from your engine.- Check valve clearance: Before you start your engine, make sure you check the valve clearance to ensure that everything is working properly. This will prevent damage to your engine and ensure that you get the most out of your new camshaft.Conclusion: The Best Camshaft for Your 350 with Vortec Heads Depends on Your Needs and GoalsChoosing the right camshaft for your 350 with Vortec heads can be a daunting task, but by considering the factors we've outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision. Whether you're building a street machine or a race car, there's a camshaft out there that can provide the perfect balance of power, torque, and drivability for your specific application. Just remember to choose a reputable brand, use the right lifters and camshaft profile, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully during installation. With the right camshaft, you can unlock the full potential of your 350 with Vortec heads and enjoy the ultimate performance driving experience.

The Best Cam for 350 with Vortec Heads: A Comprehensive Guide

Overview

Choosing the right camshaft is critical when building a performance engine. When it comes to a 350 with Vortec heads, there are several options available. In this guide, we'll discuss the pros and cons of the best camshafts for 350 with Vortec heads and provide a table comparison to help you make an informed decision.

The Pros and Cons of the Best Cam for 350 with Vortec Heads

Option 1: Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR282HR

Pros:

  • Works well with Vortec heads
  • Provides good low-end torque and high RPM power
  • Great for street/strip applications

Cons:

  • May require modifications to valve train and exhaust system
  • Can be noisy at idle

Option 2: Crane Cams Energizer 274H06

Pros:

  • Excellent low-end torque
  • Smooth idle
  • Good for daily driver applications

Cons:

  • Doesn't provide as much high-RPM power compared to other cams
  • May require modifications to valve train and exhaust system

Option 3: Lunati Voodoo 60103

Pros:

  • Great for high-performance street applications
  • Provides excellent mid-range power
  • Works well with Vortec heads

Cons:

  • May require modifications to valve train and exhaust system
  • Can be noisy at idle

Camshaft Comparison Table

Camshaft Pros Cons
Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR282HR Works well with Vortec heads
Provides good low-end torque and high RPM power
Great for street/strip applications		 May require modifications to valve train and exhaust system
Can be noisy at idle
Crane Cams Energizer 274H06 Excellent low-end torque
Smooth idle
Good for daily driver applications		 Doesn't provide as much high-RPM power compared to other cams
May require modifications to valve train and exhaust system
Lunati Voodoo 60103 Great for high-performance street applications
Provides excellent mid-range power
Works well with Vortec heads		 May require modifications to valve train and exhaust system
Can be noisy at idle

Conclusion

Choosing the best cam for 350 with Vortec heads can be a daunting task. However, by understanding the pros and cons of each option, you can make an informed decision based on your needs and budget. Whether you're looking for low-end torque or high-RPM power, there's a camshaft out there that can provide the performance you're looking for.

The Best Cam for a 350 with Vortec Heads: A Comprehensive Guide

Thank you for visiting our blog and taking the time to read our comprehensive guide on the best cam for a 350 with Vortec heads. We hope that we have provided you with valuable information that will help you make an informed decision when it comes to upgrading your engine.

We understand that choosing the right camshaft can be a daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with the technical aspects of engines. That's why we've put together this guide to help you navigate through the different options available in the market.

Before we dive into the details, let's first understand why upgrading your camshaft is important for your engine's performance.

The camshaft is a critical component of an engine's valvetrain system. It controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves, which determines how much air and fuel enter the combustion chamber. The right camshaft can significantly improve your engine's power, torque, and overall performance.

When it comes to choosing a camshaft for your 350 engine with Vortec heads, there are several factors to consider, such as the engine's intended use, the type of driving you'll be doing, and the amount of horsepower and torque you want to achieve.

One of the most popular options for a 350 engine with Vortec heads is the COMP Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H. This camshaft is designed to provide excellent low-end torque and mid-range power, making it ideal for street-driven vehicles. It also has a smooth idle that won't cause any issues with your vehicle's emissions or drivability.

If you're looking for even more power, the Crane Cams Energizer 274H is another great option. This camshaft is designed for high-performance street and strip applications and can provide up to 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. It has a rough idle that gives your vehicle a more aggressive sound and feel.

For those looking for a camshaft that can handle even more power, the Lunati Voodoo 60103 is worth considering. This camshaft can provide up to 500 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for racing applications or high-performance street driving. It has a rough idle that gives your vehicle a more aggressive sound and feel.

It's important to note that choosing the right camshaft is only one part of the equation when it comes to upgrading your engine's performance. You'll also need to consider other factors, such as the intake and exhaust systems, fuel system, and ignition system.

Additionally, it's crucial to have your engine properly tuned after installing a new camshaft to ensure that everything is working together correctly. A professional tune-up will help you get the most out of your new camshaft and ensure that your engine is running smoothly and efficiently.

Overall, upgrading your camshaft is an excellent way to improve your engine's performance and get more horsepower and torque out of your vehicle. With the right camshaft and proper tuning, you can transform your 350 engine with Vortec heads into a powerful and responsive machine that's perfect for both street and strip driving.

We hope that our guide has been helpful in your search for the best camshaft for your 350 engine with Vortec heads. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about upgrading your engine, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Thank you again for visiting our blog, and we wish you the best of luck in your engine upgrade journey!

People Also Ask About Best Cam for 350 with Vortec Heads

What is a Vortec Head?

Vortec heads are a type of cylinder head manufactured by General Motors for use on small block engines. They were first introduced in 1986 and feature an improved design for better airflow and combustion efficiency.

What Camshaft Should I Use with Vortec Heads?

Choosing the right camshaft for your engine depends on several factors, including the intended use of the vehicle, the size of the engine, and the type of fuel system. For a 350 with Vortec heads, a camshaft with a duration of around 220-230 degrees at 0.050 lift and a lift of 0.450-0.500 is a good choice for street performance.

What Are the Benefits of Upgrading to a Performance Camshaft?

Upgrading to a performance camshaft can provide several benefits, including increased horsepower and torque, improved throttle response, and a more aggressive exhaust note. A performance camshaft can also improve the overall drivability of your vehicle by providing smoother power delivery and better low-end torque.

Can I Install a Camshaft Myself?

Installing a camshaft can be a complex process that requires specialized tools and knowledge. While it is possible to install a camshaft yourself, it is recommended that you have the work done by a professional mechanic or engine builder to ensure that it is installed correctly and that all other components are properly adjusted to match the new camshaft.

What Other Upgrades Should I Consider with a Performance Camshaft?

When upgrading to a performance camshaft, it is important to consider other upgrades that may be necessary to support the increased power and RPM range. This may include upgrading your valve springs, pushrods, and rocker arms. It is also recommended that you upgrade your fuel system and exhaust to maximize the benefits of the new camshaft.

Conclusion

Choosing the best camshaft for your 350 with Vortec heads requires careful consideration of several factors. A camshaft with a duration of around 220-230 degrees at 0.050 lift and a lift of 0.450-0.500 is a good choice for street performance. Upgrading to a performance camshaft can provide several benefits, but it is important to consider other upgrades that may be necessary to support the increased power and RPM range. Installing a camshaft should be done by a professional mechanic or engine builder to ensure that it is installed correctly and that all other components are properly adjusted to match the new camshaft.

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