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I'm contemplating changing cams in my current motor. I don't think I'll have time to finish and install my new motor over the coming months but i'm sick of the ridiculous cam that was put in the current motor. Now that the timing cover is leaking severely, it occurs to me that a cam change might not be a bad idea.
For this fairly standard, low compression 350, I was thinking of putting in an L82 type cam. The power is tolerable and it should improve my idle and vacuum. I've read that the Comp Cam XE262 is similar. Anyone know? I read a pretty interesting article where this and other classic cams are described:
I'm contemplating changing cams in my current motor. I don't think I'll have time to finish and install my new motor over the coming months but i'm sick of the ridiculous cam that was put in the current motor. Now that the timing cover is leaking severely, it occurs to me that a cam change might not be a bad idea.
For this fairly standard, low compression 350, I was thinking of putting in an L82 type cam. The power is tolerable and it should improve my idle and vacuum. I've read that the Comp Cam XE262 is similar. Anyone know? I read a pretty interesting article where this and other classic cams are described:
The L82 cam is still available through GM. It was the same cam used in the L46. I believe it was the best hydraulic lifter small block cam Chevy ever had back in the day.
Last edited by Red Vert 02; Dec 28, 2014 at 12:50 PM.
I ran the Crane Energizer H272 in my previous engine - smog legal (certified) and similar to the L-82 cam. A little more aggressive lobe design - 216/216 with about the same lift. IIRC the L-82's duration was in the low 220s.
The L82 cam is still available through GM. It was the same cam used in the L46. I believe it was the best hydraulic lifter small block cam Chevy ever had back in the day.
you can also get the Federal Mogul (Sealed Power) L46/L82 through summit.
I used an Isky 264 mega cam with 214-214 .450 lift on a 108 lsa in my 76 L82 with auto trans and 3.36 rear. Much better low and mid range power. If I would have had a 4 speed I would have gone with the Isky 270 mega cam with 221-221- .470 lift on a 108 lsa. As Shark Racer said the Crane 272 energizer cam is a good one too that will give you better low and mid range power .
The L82 cam (same as 350ci/350hp) was a very good street cam but it is very old tech. I would recommend calling the major cam companies and tell them what you have and see what they recommend. Study the recommendations and decide what is best for you.
It has a nice slight lope, idles well and has some giddy-up to it. It has also been used quite a bit and there is a lot of info out on the way it performs.
I just use my car to cruise around town every once in a while and it is very pleasant to drive. If you want a fire breathing cam this isn't the one for you.
I'm running 1.6 roller rockers and I've had it in the car with a TH400 and 3.73 gears and it ran really well with good vacuum and good power. I'm even more pleased with it since I've converted the car over to a 4spd.
Sorry, after a second look I realized you're not looking for a roller cam.
Last edited by Brass Pass; Dec 29, 2014 at 02:44 PM.
I broached this same topic months ago on the NCRS board and received some great responses from very knowledgeable individuals that I hold alot of respect for.
Hopefully you can peruse the thread, alot of great information.