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Old 04-10-2007, 06:16 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Scooby333
Ok I'm a newbie when it comes to building an engine for HP. I only want to build my engine once so I don't want to make a mistake on choosing the right parts for the job. I'm looking for advice on what cam to use and for someone to explain in simple terms on exactly what those numbers mean for the degrees and inches when your talking cams. Here's what I have so far:

455 block bored .030

stock rods with ARP bolts

Speed Pro Flat Top pistons

Sealed Power rings

Eagle Crankshaft

Clevite Rod, Main, and Cam Bearings

set of 96 heads, but been thinking about shaving them some for a bit higher compression ratio

Edelbrock torker II intake

Edelbrock 750 cfm carb

I can't decide on what cam to use. When I bought the block I was given a Crane Cam Power Max that the guy had for the block. Specs are as followed :

Part #270-283941

Adv duration is 272/284 adv duration with a .454"/.480" gross lift

I see Crane Cam also offers a muscle Car Replica of the Ram Air 400 H.O. and the ram Air IV

Specs are 212/225 deg with a .408/.407 lift and the other is a 230/240 deg with a .469/.469 lift.

I read a post where some guys say that the Comp EX-274 is a good cam.

What about Edelbrock's Cam 278/288 deg with a .420/.422 lift

I know that for the horsepower that I want to try and achieve (around 450 to 500 HP) that the 96 heads aren't going to give me the compression ratio that I'll need to achieve it. That's why i was thinking about shaving them a bit.

My real concern is what's a good cam for the parts I have now???
Some info on the car, the transmission type (converter stall if auto) and rear end gearing would be very helpful. In order to pick a good cam you need to consider these things, as well as the intended usage of the car.

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1964 Tempest Coupe LS3/4L70E/3.42
1964 Le Mans Convertible 421 HO/TH350/3.08
2002 WS6 Convertible LS1/4L60E/3.23
1966 VW Type 2 Single Cab Pickup 140hp 2276
1956 VW Type 2 Panel Van 36hp 1200
1957 VW Type 1 Beetle 180hp 2276