Camshaft Comparison - Cam Tech

Budget Cam SwapNot all of our testing involves high-end, mega-dollar stuff. We've also tested some very easy-on-the-wallet deals like this flat-tappet cam swap for a mere $245.67, including the cost of the gaskets. We started with a typical 350ci small-block Chevy equipped with a stock-style flat-tappet hydraulic cam. Next, we jumped in with an Erson TQ40H mild flat hydraulic cam and lifter package along with a new set of springs to replace the tired originals.

With the engine on the dyno at Westech, it peaked at 326 hp at a mere 4,700 rpm with impressive torque at 398 lb-ft at 3,700 rpm. The valvesprings were also clearly overworked even with the stock cam, so the swap included a set of new Erson single-wound springs as well. The Erson cam added a solid 23 degrees of duration on the intake side and 26 degrees on the exhaust side, both measured at 0.050-inch tappet lift. The Erson also added a whopping 0.082 and 0.062 inch of valve lift. The combination of the two points, plus some overlap, are clearly the reasons why this inexpensive cam swap was worth an honest 77 peak horsepower. Because the stock cam made such good torque, the bigger cam actually lost torque between 2,000 and 3,000 but compensated with a ton more power between 4,000 and 5,900 rpm. The best indicator of all is the 44hp average power increase over the entire rpm band. That tells you this is a substantial gain. When you can get all that for under $250, that's a win, baby.