Looking for Tips on 383 Stroker Cam Kit Upgrades

Chevrolet Technology and Innovations
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Exploring the 383 Stroker Cam Kit

I’m planning some upgrades for my Chevy 383 small block and I need your insights. My goal is to enhance performance and truly unleash the beast under the hood. I’ve been reading about cam kits designed specifically for stroker engines and I’m trying to figure out the best path forward.

What to Consider

  • Engine Compatibility: Not all cam kits will work seamlessly with a stroked engine. I’d love to hear if anyone has experience with specific brands or models that have proven effective.
  • Desired Performance: Are you targeting more horsepower, torque, or a balance of both? I’m aiming for an aggressive performance that keeps the drivability relatively smooth. Tips on ideal cam specs would be much appreciated!
  • Installation Insights: For those who have tackled this upgrade, how difficult was the installation? Any special tools required?
  • Dyno Testing: Has anyone run dyno tests before and after swapping out cam kits? I’m curious about the actual performance gains that can be expected.

General Recommendations

  • If you’ve had any experiences—good or bad—with a particular cam kit for a 383 stroker, I would love to hear about it. Any recommendations based on your own builds?
  • Also, how do different cam profiles impact not just performance, but also fuel efficiency and engine longevity?

Feel free to share your thoughts, successes, and tips! I’m eager to learn more before making a decision and getting started on this exciting build.

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Choosing the right camshaft for a 383 stroker is critical. Focus on lift and duration. Higher lift increases airflow, while duration dictates how long the valves stay open. LSA affects the engine’s idle quality and power band. Consider your overall performance goals!

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Exactly! Don’t forget to factor in your other components like the intake and exhaust systems. They all need to work in harmony for optimal performance!

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I recently upgraded my camshaft and went with a 0.510 lift and a duration of 230/236. It really improved my torque in the mid range! Just make sure it suits your driving style.

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Dynamic compression ratio is something to consider as well, especially when selecting a cam. Too much lift can lead to engine knock if not paired with the right compression.

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That’s a great choice, Molly! I think the mid-range torque is crucial for daily driving. Did you notice any changes in fuel efficiency?

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What kind of power gains are you looking for? A lumpier cam can be fun, but it also means losing some low-end torque. Sometimes a smoother profile is better overall.

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Good point! I want a balance since I drive my car regularly. Any recommendations for a good street cam?

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Don’t forget about the idle! If you want a smoother street cam, consider something with a 112 LSA. It helps with drivability and still has decent performance!

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That’s solid advice! What do you think about jumping to a 114 LSA for even smoother performance?

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I’m a fan of 110 LSA for balance. It offers a good compromise between power and smoothness without sacrificing too much performance. It’s best to closely match your heads with the cam specs.

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Anyone ever tried using a VTEC cam in a 383 stroker? I heard it could give some wild performance! Just wondering how it’d hold up with normal driving.

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VTEC in a 383? That sounds more like a VTEC nightmare! Unless you want your engine to throw a tantrum, stick to standard cam options.

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I think we should consider other engine components too. Each part can affect the cam choice dramatically. Have you guys looked into your headers?

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Good call! Properly matched headers can significantly improve performance and are crucial for scavenging.

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Installing a cam kit in a 383 stroker can really enhance performance. Make sure you have a good quality torque wrench and gasket scraper on hand! Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

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That’s good advice! Also, I found that having a manual for your specific engine helps reduce guesswork during installation.

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I had a lot of trouble with alignment when I installed mine. I recommend using a cam alignment tool to avoid any headaches later on.

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Yes! Alignment issues can really mess things up. Also, remember to double-check your timing settings after installation.

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Don’t forget about the break-in period after installation! It’s crucial for ensuring longevity. Taking it easy on the throttle for the first 500 miles will help.

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