Cam for big block?

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Dec 10, 2001 | 09:49 PM

467-Ratman

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Burning Brakes

Joined: Aug 2001

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From: Bay City MI.

Cam for big block?

Just spent some time today at the engine builders, he has my big block apart. Some bad news the crank is cracked and headed to the dumpster. I have another one that were going to mag tomorrow. Hope it looks good. The merlin heads are in great shape and look awesome!!! My question is the cam was a Crane 296-2, my friend said this is really a big cam, rpm range from 3000 to 6500. Should I use this one or go for something a little less radical. I am not planing on going to the drag strip everyday. I am looking for good mid-range power, not interested in spinning to 6500rpm! Thanks again for the help and suggestions. Also I think I better change my forum name from LT-1 to BigBlock!!!!

Dec 10, 2001 | 11:22 PM

73 LS-4

Melting Slicks

Joined: Jun 2001

Posts: 2,340

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From: Moro IL

Re: Cam for big block? (LT1-Tom)

I'm no expert here, but I'd think you'll be happier with a cam with a power range between 2-6k rpm, at least this way the cam will still be in it's power band while putting around town for good low end throttle response.

:cheers:
Pat Kunz

Dec 11, 2001 | 11:44 AM

ScubaJKD

Burning Brakes

Joined: Jul 2001

Posts: 831

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From: Reston VA

Re: Cam for big block? (73 LS-4)

I would highly recommend you give COMP Cams a call or email them with the specifics of your application and goals. They have always been very helpfull in selecting a great cam, and they sell a truely quality product.

Dec 11, 2001 | 12:07 PM

467-Ratman

Thread Starter

Burning Brakes

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From: Bay City MI.

Re: Cam for big block? (ScubaJKD)

Thanks for the info, I believe that the 264 cam sounds like a good choice? It does not have such a high rpm band. Has anyone used this cam or a similar?

Dec 11, 2001 | 12:10 PM

Ganey

Race Director

Joined: Apr 1999

Posts: 11,520

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From: CORVETTE 77 385 C.I. TEXAS

Re: Cam for big block? (LT1-Tom)

What's C.I., trans.- expect a manual & rear gears?

Dec 11, 2001 | 01:24 PM

bb69

Drifting

Joined: May 2001

Posts: 1,651

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From: Holly MI

Re: Cam for big block? (LT1-Tom)

I called Crane and told them what I had and what I wanted to do. I built a basically stock 427, with the only mods and HEI and roller rockers. I told them I wanted an engine that would easily spin the tires rolling on the throttle from about 5 MPH. They suggested their HMV-272-2A cam: .515 intake, .510 exhaust; 216 deg intake, 228 exhaust. The card says min RPM is 2000 and max is 4500 with valve float at 6500. Crane's number is 904-258-6174. I am still a few days away from starting it up for the first time, but I'd be glad to let you know how it goes.

Good luck.

Dec 13, 2001 | 02:00 PM

marky mark

Burning Brakes

Joined: Aug 2000

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Re: Cam for big block? (bb69)

I put the Crane H-272 in my 427bb rebuild and am very happy with the cam. Good torque and power until about 5300 rpm which is also where the intake and heads reach their practical limits (large oval ports and low rise int. w/quad). I looked at the H-286 but noticed it required higher compression ratio than mine, which is 9:6 to 1. Cam you are replacing in your car would have needed comp ratio of 11:1 or higher for it to work well.

Don't "overcam" and you'll be a lot happier with the results.

Regards, Mark :flag :chevy

Dec 13, 2001 | 02:17 PM

Lt1er

Drifting

Joined: Dec 1999

Posts: 1,462

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From: Reno nevada

Re: Cam for big block? (LT1-Tom)

If your into solid cams like me. I have just a 355 with the Crane 238/248 @.050 They call it the FHI 284-2-nc for small blocks. I use 1.6 roller tips and it's great. With your larger cubic inches it would be nice.