What is what does it mean to cam a car?

Camming a car, often referring to installing an aftermarket or modified camshaft, is a common performance upgrade in the automotive world. Here's a breakdown of what it entails:

• What is a Camshaft? The camshaft is a critical component in an internal combustion engine. It's a rotating shaft with lobes (cams) that control the opening and closing of the engine's valves at specific times during the engine's cycle. This precise timing is essential for proper combustion and engine performance.

• Why "Cam" a Car? Changing the camshaft, or "camming" the car, allows you to alter the valve timing and lift. This directly affects how much air and fuel enter the cylinder and how efficiently exhaust gases are expelled. The goal is usually to increase horsepower and torque, particularly at certain RPM ranges.

• Different Types of Cams: There are many types of camshafts available, each designed for specific performance characteristics. Some are designed for low-end torque, while others are optimized for high-RPM horsepower. Key terms to understand include:

  • Duration: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Camshaft%20Duration: The length of time (in degrees of crankshaft rotation) that a valve is open. Longer duration generally means more high-RPM power but potentially less low-end torque.

  • Lift: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Camshaft%20Lift: The distance a valve is opened. Higher lift also increases airflow.

  • Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Lobe%20Separation%20Angle: The angle between the centerlines of the intake and exhaust lobes. LSA affects the engine's idle quality and power band.

• The Process: Installing a new camshaft is a complex process that typically involves disassembling the engine, removing the old camshaft, installing the new one, and reassembling the engine. It often requires specialized tools and knowledge.

• Considerations: Camming a car isn't always a straightforward upgrade. You need to consider:

  • Engine Compatibility: Not all camshafts are compatible with all engines. You need to choose a cam designed for your specific engine and its intended use.

  • Other Modifications: A new camshaft may require other supporting modifications, such as upgraded valve springs, pushrods, and a new engine tune (ECU remap) to ensure proper operation and prevent damage.

  • Driveability: Aggressive camshafts can negatively impact driveability, especially at low speeds. The engine may idle roughly, and fuel economy may decrease.

  • Emissions: Some camshafts may not be legal for street use in certain locations due to emissions regulations.

• Benefits: When done correctly, camming a car can result in significant performance gains. You can expect increased horsepower, torque, and a more aggressive engine sound. However, it's important to carefully research and plan the upgrade to ensure it meets your needs and doesn't create unintended problems.