what is cammed car

3 min read 26-12-2024

Meta Description: Unlock the secrets of cammed cars! Learn what a camshaft is, how it affects performance, the pros and cons of cam upgrades, and what to consider before modifying your engine. Discover the world of camshafts and unleash your car's true potential.

What is a Camshaft? The Heart of Engine Timing

A cammed car is a vehicle that has had its camshaft modified or replaced. But what is a camshaft? It's a crucial component within your engine, responsible for precisely controlling the timing of your engine's valves. These valves—intake and exhaust—regulate the flow of air and fuel into the combustion chamber and the expulsion of exhaust gases. The camshaft's lobes push on the rocker arms or directly on the valves, opening and closing them at precisely the right moments for optimal power and efficiency.

Think of it as the engine's conductor, orchestrating the symphony of combustion. A perfectly timed valve opening and closing maximizes power, torque, and fuel efficiency.

How Does a Camshaft Affect Performance?

The camshaft's profile—the shape of its lobes—dictates the duration and lift of the valves. This directly impacts engine performance:

Duration: How long the valves stay open. Longer duration generally means more power at higher RPMs, but can sacrifice low-end torque.
Lift: How far the valves open. More lift allows more air and fuel into the cylinders, increasing power.

A "cammed" car typically features a camshaft with a more aggressive profile. This means longer duration and/or higher lift, leading to significant performance gains.

Different Types of Camshafts

Camshafts aren't one-size-fits-all. Different profiles are designed for different purposes:

Street Cams: Offer a balance between drivability and performance. They provide noticeable power gains without sacrificing too much low-end torque.
Race Cams: Prioritize maximum horsepower, often at the expense of low-end torque and drivability. These are generally not suitable for daily driving.
Stage Cams: Often categorized by "stage" (e.g., Stage 1, Stage 2, etc.), representing increasing levels of aggressiveness. Higher stages mean more extreme performance gains but also potential trade-offs.

Choosing the right camshaft depends heavily on your goals and driving style.

The Pros and Cons of a Cammed Car

Pros:

Increased Horsepower and Torque: The primary benefit is a significant boost in power and torque, leading to improved acceleration and top speed.
Improved Engine Response: A more aggressive cam can make the engine feel more responsive and lively.

Cons:

Reduced Low-End Torque: More aggressive cams often sacrifice low-end torque, making the car less enjoyable for daily driving, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
Rougher Idle: A performance camshaft can result in a more aggressive, less smooth idle.
Increased Engine Noise: Expect a louder engine, sometimes significantly so.
Potential for Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Though some cam profiles can slightly improve fuel economy, most performance cams tend to reduce it.
Installation Complexity: Installing a new camshaft is a complex procedure, often requiring professional installation.

What to Consider Before Camming Your Car

Before taking the plunge, carefully weigh the pros and cons. Consider these factors:

Your Driving Style: A race cam is unsuitable for daily driving. Choose a camshaft profile suited to your needs.
Your Budget: Cam upgrades can be expensive, including parts, labor, and potentially supporting modifications.
Your Vehicle: Some vehicles are better suited for cam upgrades than others. Research your specific car model and engine before proceeding.
Emissions Compliance: In some areas, significant cam upgrades can affect emissions compliance. Be sure to check local regulations.

Choosing the Right Camshaft: A Guide

Selecting the perfect camshaft involves several key considerations:

Your Engine's Specifications: The engine's displacement, compression ratio, and other factors dictate the appropriate camshaft profile.
Your Performance Goals: Are you aiming for maximum horsepower, improved low-end torque, or a balance of both?
Your Budget: Camshafts vary widely in price, from relatively affordable street cams to very expensive race-spec units.

A cammed car offers a significant performance upgrade, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Careful planning and consideration of your driving style and budget are essential for a successful and satisfying cam upgrade. Remember to consult with experienced mechanics and tuners to ensure a proper installation and optimal performance.