Enhance your Chevy 350 engine performance with the right camshaft designed for power, torque, and reliability. Below is a summary table of the top camshaft options tailored for Chevy Small Block 350 engines, highlighting key brands, features, and compatibility.
| Product | Brand | Key Features | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comp Cams 12-211-2 270H Magnum Hydraulic Flat Tappet Camshaft | Comp Cams | High performance, 1800-5800 RPM range, 224/224 Duration @ .050″, 110° Lobe Separation | 55-87 Small Block Chevy Engines |
| Torque RV Ultimate Cam Kit for Chevy GMC 305 350 TBI | Falcon Performance | Hydraulic flat tappets, computer compatible, excellent low-RPM torque, smooth idle | Chevy GMC Truck 305-350 with TBI |
| Speedmaster PCE249.1012 Hydraulic Roller Camshaft | Speedmaster | Aggressive lobe profile, better throttle response, 248 Int./254 Exh. Duration | Chevy SBC 350 |
| maXpeedingrods Hydraulic Roller Lifters Camshaft Kit | maXpeedingrods | Fits multiple SBC engines, detailed lifter dimensions, durable steel wheel | SBC 265, 283, 302, 307, 327, 350, 400 |
| Elgin E-1091-P Performance Camshaft | Elgin | Performance auto part, compact packaging, reliable design | Performance applications |
Comp Cams 12-211-2 270H Magnum Hydraulic Flat Tappet Camshaft
The Comp Cams 270H Magnum Hydraulic Flat Tappet Camshaft offers a high-performance upgrade for Small Block Chevy engines from 1955 to 1987. It features a wide operating range of 1800 to 5800 RPM, making it ideal for street and mild race applications. The cam provides 224/224 duration at .050″ with a 110-degree lobe separation angle, delivering strong torque and horsepower across the rev band. While it delivers a slightly rough idle, pairing it with a 2000+ stall converter and lower gearing enhances its effectiveness.
Torque RV Ultimate Cam Kit for Chevy GMC 305 350 TBI
Designed to replace hydraulic flat tappet cams in SBC Chevrolet TBI engines (305-350), the Torque RV Ultimate Cam Kit provides excellent low-RPM torque and smooth drivability. Its Valve Lift Int/Exh of 0.420/0.443 inches and duration advances of 278/288 degrees make it suitable for towing, off-roading, and highway mileage. The cam’s design is computer compatible, ensuring smooth idle and reliable performance for work and recreational vehicles.
Speedmaster PCE249.1012 Hydraulic Roller Camshaft for Chevy SBC 350
The Speedmaster PCE249.1012 camshaft is engineered with aggressive lobe profiles to maximize throttle response and top-end horsepower. With durations of 248 degrees intake and 254 degrees exhaust, this hydraulic roller cam is suitable for street performance, towing, and off-road use. Its design increases engine vacuum while maintaining smooth operation. Speedmaster’s blend of technology provides performance improvements without sacrificing drivability.
maXpeedingrods Hydraulic Roller Lifters Camshaft Kit
This maXpeedingrods Camshaft Kit fits various Small Block Chevy engines including 265, 283, 302, 307, 327, 350, and 400 models. The hydraulic roller lifters have precise dimensions such as a 0.842-inch outer diameter and a working length (seat height) of 2.590 inches, ensuring correct valve timing and efficiency. This kit is popular for rebuilds requiring versatile application across multiple SBC variants.
Elgin E-1091-P Performance Camshaft
The Elgin E-1091-P offers a reliable performance camshaft solution suited for various high-performance applications. Though specifications are general, its compact packaging and quality construction make it a suitable option for enthusiasts seeking straightforward upgrades. Pairing this cam with appropriate valvetrain components ensures smooth operation and enhanced engine performance.
Buying Guide for Performance Cams in Chevy 350 Engines
Choosing the right camshaft for your Chevy 350 engine involves several critical factors to match your desired performance profile and vehicle application.
1. Engine Compatibility
Ensure the camshaft is designed specifically for the Chevy Small Block 350 or compatible engine variants, including 305, 327, or 400 if applicable. Consider lifter type compatibility (hydraulic flat tappet vs. hydraulic roller) and intended fuel delivery systems (carbureted or TBI).
2. Camshaft Profile & Duration
Understand cam duration and lobe separation angle—longer duration often equates to higher RPM performance but can reduce low-end torque and idle smoothness. For street engines, moderate durations help maintain drivability, while race cams emphasize top-end power.
3. Lift & Timing
Valve lift impacts airflow into the cylinders. Higher lift improves performance potential but requires compatible valvetrain components. Timing adjustments (advance/retard capabilities) allow tuning for optimal power and torque curves.
4. RPM Range
Check the recommended operating RPM range of the camshaft. Match it to your driving style—low stall converters and lower gearing favor low-end torque cams; high stall and race setups require cams that perform well at higher RPMs.
5. Idle Quality and Vehicle Use
Some performance cams cause a rough idle, which may not be desirable for daily drivers or highway cruisers. Consider how you use your vehicle—towing, street performance, or racing—to select a camshaft providing the best balance.
6. Material and Build Quality
Quality materials and manufacturing, such as induction-hardened gears and precision profiled lobes, ensure durability and performance longevity. Trusted brands often provide better warranties and technical support.
7. Tuning and Supporting Components
Upgrading the cam may require adjustments to ignition timing, fuel delivery, and valvetrain components like lifters, pushrods, and springs. Choose cams that work well with your existing setup or plan a comprehensive upgrade for best results.