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10 Best Camshaft For 350 Chevy 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

COMP Cams K12-600-4 Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit for Chevrolet Small Block

The COMP Cams K12-600-4 Thumpr camshaft is designed for those looking to improve performance in Chevrolet Small Block engines, particularly popular in muscle cars and street rods. This camshaft boasts impressive specifications, including a lift of 0.479"/0.465", 227/241 duration at .050", and a 107-degree lobe separation angle. It operates optimally within a 2,000 to 5,800 RPM range, making it a solid choice for spirited street driving and racing scenarios.

One of its main strengths is the distinctive choppy idle it produces, which many enthusiasts find appealing. This camshaft is especially effective when paired with aftermarket converters and rear gears, enhancing the engine’s power band and creating a powerful, throaty exhaust note that muscle car fans crave. Users appreciate the inclusion of a comprehensive K Kit, which typically contains not just the camshaft, but also lifters, valve springs, retainer kits, and timing set, facilitating a complete upgrade.

There are some drawbacks to consider. This camshaft is best suited for performance applications and may not be ideal for daily drivers or those who prefer a smoother idle. Additionally, it does not fit newer LT1/LT4 engines or factory roller Small Blocks built from 1985 onward, which can limit its applicability.

#2

COMP Cams CL12-242-2 Xtreme Energy 224/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit Chevrolet Small Block

Rating
9.6
RPM Range

Most important from
196 reviews

RPM Range
This cam makes a lot of power and has a great lopey rough idle, ideal around 700 RPM.

The COMP Cams CL12-242-2 Xtreme Energy camshaft kit is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance the performance of their Chevrolet Small Block engines, especially the 350 variant. It comes with a hydraulic flat cam and lifters, which are designed to work best for street machines. The lift specifications of 0.477" and 0.480" along with a duration of 224/230 at .050" support robust power while still maintaining reasonable drivability, making it a solid option for those who want to maintain some everyday usability in their vehicles.

One of the notable strengths of this camshaft is its RPM range, which operates effectively between 1,600 to 5,800 RPM. This range is ideal for street applications, allowing for responsive acceleration in most driving situations. The 110-degree lobe separation angle contributes to smoother idle quality and improved vacuum, which is particularly beneficial for power brakes.

This camshaft does have some limitations. It is best suited for use with aftermarket intake manifolds and headers, meaning that users looking for a straightforward installation with stock components might find it less than ideal. Additionally, it performs optimally with a stall converter of 2000 RPM or higher, which may require further investment if your current setup doesn't meet this specification. It's also important to note that this camshaft does not fit LT1/LT4 or factory roller Small Blocks built from 1985 and newer, which could restrict its usability for some vehicle owners.

Rating
9.6
RPM Range

Most important from
196 reviews

RPM Range
This cam makes a lot of power and has a great lopey rough idle, ideal around 700 RPM.
#3

Comp Cams 12-211-2 270H Magnum Hydraulic Flat Tappet Camshaft for 55-87 Small Block Chevy Engines

The Comp Cams 12-211-2 270H Magnum Hydraulic Flat Tappet Camshaft is designed for 55-87 Small Block Chevy engines, including popular models like the 350. This camshaft stands out with its high performance and versatility. It features a 1,800-5,800 RPM operating range, making it ideal for those looking for a significant boost in performance across a wide RPM range. The 224/224 duration at .050” and a 110-degree lobe separation angle contribute to its mild rough idle and enhanced engine breathing capabilities.

It's best used with aftermarket torque converters, particularly those with over a 2000 RPM stall, and performs optimally with a 9.5:1 compression ratio. While it is the largest cam suitable for a stock converter, using lower gears and additional modifications can further leverage its capabilities. This camshaft is easy on valve train parts, which is beneficial for longevity and maintenance, and it fits a wide range of Chevrolet Small Block engines. However, it's important to note that it does not fit LT1/LT4 or factory roller small blocks from 1985 and newer.

Weighing 8.73 pounds with dimensions of 24.1 x 2.9 x 2.6 inches, it’s a substantial component. Those looking for an upgrade to their Chevy’s performance with an aftermarket camshaft would find this product to be a reliable and effective choice, provided they have the appropriate supporting modifications in place.

Buying Guide for the Best Camshaft For 350 Chevy

Choosing the right camshaft for your 350 Chevy engine is crucial for optimizing performance and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly. The camshaft is a key component in the engine's valve train, controlling the timing and duration of the opening and closing of the valves. This directly affects the engine's power, efficiency, and overall performance. When selecting a camshaft, it's important to consider your vehicle's intended use, whether it's for daily driving, racing, or towing. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
LiftLift refers to how far the camshaft opens the valves. Higher lift can increase the amount of air and fuel mixture entering the engine, which can boost power. However, too much lift can cause wear and tear on the valve train components. For street performance, a moderate lift is usually sufficient, while racing applications may benefit from higher lift values.
DurationDuration is the amount of time the valve stays open, measured in degrees of crankshaft rotation. Longer duration can improve high-RPM power but may reduce low-end torque and idle quality. For daily driving, a shorter duration is typically preferred for better drivability and fuel efficiency. For racing, a longer duration can help achieve higher performance at the expense of low-end power.
Lobe Separation Angle (LSA)Lobe Separation Angle (LSA) is the angle between the intake and exhaust lobes on the camshaft. A wider LSA can improve idle quality and vacuum, making it suitable for street use. A narrower LSA can increase overlap, which can enhance high-RPM performance but may result in a rougher idle. Choose an LSA based on whether you prioritize smooth operation or maximum performance.
RPM RangeThe RPM range indicates the engine speeds at which the camshaft performs best. Camshafts designed for low to mid-range RPMs are ideal for street driving and towing, providing good low-end torque and drivability. High RPM camshafts are better suited for racing, where maximum power at high engine speeds is desired. Match the camshaft's RPM range to your driving style and vehicle use.
Valve TimingValve timing refers to the timing of the opening and closing of the valves in relation to the position of the piston. Proper valve timing ensures optimal engine performance and efficiency. Adjustable timing can allow for fine-tuning to match specific performance goals. Consider a camshaft with adjustable timing if you plan to make precise adjustments for racing or high-performance applications.

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