Car enthusiasts often use technical jargon to describe their vehicles, and one term that comes up frequently is “cammed.” While this word may be unfamiliar to the average person, it’s an essential aspect of performance modification in cars. If you’re a car owner, you may have heard people talking about camming their vehicles, and you may be wondering what it means. In this blog post, we will discuss the meaning of “cammed” in cars, how it works, and its benefits.
Camshaft is the heart of any performance engine. It controls the timing of the intake and exhaust valves, which plays a crucial role in how much power your engine produces. The shape of the camshaft’s lobes determines the valve lift and duration, which ultimately affects your engine’s performance.
So, what does cammed mean on a car? Camming is the process of installing a performance camshaft to increase engine performance. However, camming is not as simple as just replacing the camshaft. It requires a lot of other modifications to work correctly.
If you want to learn more about camming, keep reading this blog post. We will discuss the different types of camshafts, how to identify if a car is cammed, and the benefits of a cammed car. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of camming and how it can improve your vehicle’s performance.
Table of Contents
What is a camshaft?
A camshaft is an essential component of an internal combustion engine, responsible for opening and closing the engine’s valves. The camshaft is a cylindrical shaft with protruding lobes or cams that push the valves open in synchronization with the engine’s rotation. The shape of the cams and their placement on the shaft determines the engine’s performance characteristics, including horsepower, torque, and the RPM range at which the engine produces peak power.
Camshafts are typically made of hardened steel or cast iron and are supported by bearings that allow them to rotate smoothly. There are different types of camshafts, including flat-tappet and roller camshafts, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The design and construction of the camshaft play a crucial role in the engine’s overall performance, making it an important consideration for performance enthusiasts and engine builders.
The camshaft is typically driven by a chain or a belt connected to the engine’s crankshaft. As the crankshaft rotates, it turns the camshaft, which in turn pushes the valves open and closed. The timing of the camshaft’s rotation is critical, as it determines when the valves open and close, which, in turn, controls the engine’s intake and exhaust processes.
Overall, the camshaft is a critical component of any internal combustion engine, and its design and construction have a significant impact on engine performance. The shape and placement of the cams on the shaft determine the engine’s power characteristics, and choosing the right camshaft can help optimize an engine’s performance.
The Definition of a Camshaft
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Camshaft | A rotating shaft in an internal combustion engine that operates the engine’s valves. |
| Lobe | The protruding part of the camshaft that opens and closes the engine valves. |
| Valve | The part of the engine that allows air and fuel in and out of the combustion chamber. |
| Intake Valve | The valve that allows the air and fuel mixture into the combustion chamber. |
| Exhaust Valve | The valve that allows the exhaust gases to exit the combustion chamber. |
In summary, a camshaft is a key component of an internal combustion engine that operates the engine’s valves. The lobe on the camshaft pushes on the valve, allowing it to open and close. The valves themselves are crucial parts of the engine, allowing the air and fuel mixture into the combustion chamber and allowing exhaust gases to exit. The intake valve lets the air and fuel mixture in, while the exhaust valve allows the exhaust gases to leave the combustion chamber.
The Components of a Camshaft
A camshaft consists of several components, each playing a crucial role in its operation. Here are some of the most important components:Cam lobe: This is the part of the camshaft that is designed to push against the valve lifter or tappet, opening and closing the engine’s valves.
Bearing journal: This is the part of the camshaft that sits in the engine block and rotates on the engine bearings. It needs to be lubricated to prevent wear and damage.
Timing gear: This is the gear that connects the camshaft to the crankshaft and ensures that they rotate in sync.
Keyway: The keyway is a slot on the end of the camshaft that is used to connect it to the timing gear or sprocket.
To work effectively, each of these components must be made with precision and quality materials. If any of these components fails or becomes damaged, it can result in significant engine damage and costly repairs.The History of the Camshaft
The origins of the camshaft can be traced back to ancient Greece, where the philosopher Aristotle documented the use of camshafts in water clocks. These early camshafts were used to control the flow of water and keep time.
During the Industrial Revolution, camshafts were used in steam engines to control the valves and improve their efficiency. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that camshafts were first used in internal combustion engines, which revolutionized the automobile industry.
Today, camshafts are an integral part of almost all internal combustion engines, from cars and trucks to motorcycles and boats. With advances in technology, camshafts have become more precise and efficient, allowing for better performance and fuel economy.
As engines continue to evolve, it’s likely that camshaft technology will continue to play a vital role in their development.
How does a camshaft work?
A camshaft is a critical component of an engine that controls the opening and closing of valves. The camshaft has lobes, which push the valves open, allowing the air-fuel mixture to enter the engine and the exhaust gases to leave. The camshaft rotates in time with the crankshaft, which is connected to the pistons, allowing the engine to complete a cycle.
The shape of the camshaft lobes determines when the valves open and close. High-performance engines often use camshafts with more aggressive lobe profiles, allowing for more air and fuel to enter the engine, resulting in more power.
Camshafts are typically made of steel, although some high-performance applications use more exotic materials such as titanium. Proper lubrication is critical for camshaft longevity, as excessive wear can lead to performance issues and engine failure.
In addition to the lobes, a camshaft has journals that rotate in bearings. The camshaft bearings provide support and reduce friction, allowing the camshaft to rotate freely.
Overall, the camshaft is a critical component of an engine that plays a crucial role in determining its performance and longevity.
The Basics of Camshaft Operation
At its core, the camshaft is responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the engine’s valves, which lets in air and fuel and exhaust gases. As the camshaft rotates, its lobes push against lifters or rocker arms, which in turn push against the valves to open and close them. This process is called valve timing, and it’s critical for efficient engine operation.
Valve Lift: The amount of lift determines how far the valve opens, which affects the amount of air and fuel that can enter the combustion chamber. A camshaft with higher lift allows more air and fuel to enter the engine, increasing power output.
Duration: The length of time that the valve remains open is known as duration. Longer duration camshafts keep the valves open for a longer period, which can increase engine power, but can also affect low-end torque and idle quality.
Lobe Separation Angle: This refers to the angle between the centerlines of the intake and exhaust lobes. A wider lobe separation angle typically improves high-end power, while a narrower angle can improve low-end torque and drivability.
Timing: The precise timing of the camshaft is critical for optimal engine performance. Advanced timing means the valve opens earlier, while retarded timing means the valve opens later. Timing can affect power output, fuel efficiency, and emissions.
What are the types of camshafts?
Flat Tappet Camshafts: These are the most commonly used camshafts in everyday vehicles. They use a simple and inexpensive design and have been in use for decades.
Roller Camshafts: These camshafts use roller lifters instead of the flat lifters in flat tappet camshafts. Roller lifters reduce friction, allowing the engine to run smoother and with less wear.
Hydraulic Camshafts: These camshafts use hydraulic lifters, which automatically adjust to keep the valve train within specification. This makes them ideal for street-driven vehicles that see a lot of start-stop traffic.
Solid Camshafts: These camshafts have solid lifters that do not compress, which provides better control over the valve train. Solid lifters are commonly used in high-performance engines that require more precise valve control.
The Different Shapes of Camshafts
There are several different shapes of camshafts, each designed to optimize engine performance. These include:
- Flat tappet: One of the simplest and most common types of camshafts, with a flat base and symmetric lobes.
- Roller: Similar to a flat tappet camshaft, but with roller bearings on the valve lifters to reduce friction.
- Hydraulic: A type of camshaft with hydraulic lifters that automatically adjust valve lash clearance, allowing for smoother engine operation.
- Mechanical: A type of camshaft with solid lifters that require manual adjustment of valve lash clearance for optimal performance.
Each type of camshaft has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific engine application and performance goals. Choosing the right camshaft for your engine can greatly impact its power output and overall performance.
In the next section, we will discuss the factors to consider when selecting a camshaft for your engine, and how to ensure you make the right choice for your needs.
Keep reading to learn more about the different types of camshafts and how they can impact engine performance.
The Various Materials of Camshafts
Camshafts can be made from a variety of materials, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice of material depends on the specific application and the desired performance characteristics. Some of the materials used for camshafts include:
- Cast iron: This is the most commonly used material for camshafts due to its low cost and good wear resistance. It is suitable for use in low to medium-performance engines.
- Forged steel: This material is stronger and more durable than cast iron, making it suitable for high-performance engines. It is also more expensive than cast iron.
- Billet steel: This material is made by machining a solid block of steel. It is even stronger than forged steel, making it suitable for extreme performance applications.
- Aluminum: This material is lightweight, which can reduce overall engine weight and improve fuel efficiency. However, it is not as durable as steel and is more expensive.
Some camshafts also have a hardened surface coating, such as a nitrided or chromed layer, to increase their wear resistance and prolong their lifespan.
The choice of camshaft material is important in determining the performance and reliability of an engine. It is important to choose a material that is appropriate for the specific application and operating conditions.
What is camming a car?
Camming a car refers to modifying the engine’s camshaft to improve performance. This process involves replacing the stock camshaft with a performance-oriented one. A performance camshaft has a different profile than the stock one, which can change the engine’s power output and sound.
The process of camming a car can be complicated and often requires specialized tools and knowledge. The right camshaft must be chosen for the engine, and the valve train components must be upgraded to handle the increased power and RPM range.
Camming can be a significant upgrade for a car, but it is not always the best choice. The modifications can affect the engine’s reliability, and it may not be street legal in some areas.
Overall, camming a car can be an effective way to improve its performance, but it requires careful consideration and should be done by a professional to ensure it is done correctly.
The Process of Camming a Car
Step 1: Determine the Goal
The first step in camming a car is to determine the goal. This involves deciding on the desired power output and engine characteristics, such as whether the car will be used for racing or daily driving.Step 2: Choose a Camshaft
Once the goal has been determined, the next step is to choose a camshaft that will achieve the desired results. The camshaft must be selected based on factors such as the engine’s displacement, compression ratio, and fuel delivery system.Step 3: Install the Camshaft
After selecting a camshaft, the next step is to install it in the engine. This involves removing the old camshaft, cleaning the engine components, and installing the new camshaft and related components, such as lifters and pushrods.Step 4: Adjust Valve Timing
After installing the new camshaft, the valve timing must be adjusted to ensure that the engine runs properly. This involves setting the camshaft to the correct position relative to the crankshaft and adjusting the timing chain or belt.Step 5: Dyno Tuning
Once the camshaft has been installed and the valve timing has been adjusted, the final step is to dyno tune the car. This involves running the engine on a dynamometer to optimize performance by adjusting factors such as air/fuel ratio, ignition timing, and camshaft timing.The Cost of Camming a Car
Camming a car can be a significant expense, and the cost varies depending on several factors, such as the make and model of the vehicle, the type of camshaft being installed, and the amount of labor involved.
The price of a camshaft itself can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the quality and complexity of the camshaft. For example, a high-performance, custom-ground camshaft will typically cost more than a standard, off-the-shelf camshaft.
In addition to the cost of the camshaft, there may be additional expenses for other parts that need to be replaced or upgraded as part of the camming process, such as valve springs, lifters, and pushrods.
The labor cost for camming a car can also be significant, as it can take several hours to remove the old camshaft and install the new one. The amount of labor involved can vary depending on the make and model of the car and the accessibility of the camshaft.
Overall, the cost of camming a car can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the specific circumstances. It’s important to do research and get quotes from reputable mechanics or shops to ensure that you’re getting a fair price for the work.
The Risks of Camming a Car
Camming a car can provide numerous benefits, but it also comes with risks. Some of the potential risks include:
- Warranty Void: Camming your car will typically void your vehicle warranty, which can be a major drawback if something goes wrong down the line.
- Engine Damage: Incorrect installation or tuning of the camshaft can lead to engine damage, such as bent valves, damaged pistons, or broken connecting rods.
- Drivability Issues: If the camshaft is not properly matched with other engine components or is not tuned correctly, it can lead to drivability issues, such as stalling, surging, or reduced power.
- Increased Wear: A high-performance camshaft can increase wear and tear on engine components, such as the lifters, pushrods, and rocker arms, which can lead to premature failure.
It is essential to have a professional install and tune your camshaft to avoid these risks. Choosing the right camshaft and accompanying components is crucial to ensure your engine runs smoothly and safely. Additionally, it is important to understand that camming your car may not be legal in some areas, as it can cause your vehicle to fail emissions tests.
What does “cammed” mean?
Cammed refers to a modification made to a car’s engine, typically involving the installation of an aftermarket camshaft. The term “cammed” comes from the fact that a new camshaft replaces the stock camshaft in the engine, changing the engine’s timing and behavior.
The goal of a camshaft upgrade is to increase an engine’s performance by improving airflow and combustion efficiency. A camshaft with more lift and duration can produce more power at higher engine speeds, and can also give the engine a more aggressive sound.
While camming a car can increase performance, it is not always the best modification for every vehicle or driving style. Camming can affect an engine’s low-end torque and drivability, and may require other upgrades such as a new exhaust system, larger fuel injectors, and a retuned engine computer.
Overall, “cammed” is a term used to describe a car that has undergone a camshaft upgrade, and is usually associated with high-performance vehicles and enthusiasts who want to get the most power out of their engines.
The Definition of “Cammed”
Cammed is a term used to describe a vehicle that has been modified with a high-performance camshaft, which alters the engine’s valve timing and lift. This modification is popular among car enthusiasts who want to increase the power and performance of their vehicle. The term “cammed” is often used in the car community to describe a car that has been modified in this way, and it can also refer to the sound that the engine makes as a result of the modification.
However, it’s worth noting that not all camshaft modifications result in the same degree of modification or engine sound. There are different types of camshafts and modifications that can be made to them, which can result in varying degrees of power increase and sound.
The History of Camming Cars
Camming cars has been around for almost as long as cars themselves. The first performance camshaft was invented in the early 20th century by racing enthusiasts who wanted to get more power out of their engines.
In the 1950s and 60s, camming became more popular as hot-rodding and drag racing gained mainstream attention. Camshafts were modified or replaced to increase an engine’s horsepower and torque, and the sound of a cammed engine became synonymous with power and speed.
As technology improved, camshaft designs became more advanced and specialized. Today, there are a wide variety of camshaft profiles and materials available, allowing enthusiasts to fine-tune their engines for maximum performance.
While camming cars may have started as a grassroots movement among racing enthusiasts, it has since become a multi-billion dollar industry, with companies offering everything from camshafts and engine components to complete engine builds and tuning services.
The Popularity of Camming Cars
Camming cars has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many car enthusiasts modifying their engines to increase horsepower and torque. One reason for this is the thrill of driving a more powerful car. Another reason is the sense of achievement that comes with doing the work yourself.
Many car enthusiasts enjoy the challenge of modifying their car and experimenting with different camshafts to see what works best. They also enjoy the social aspect of camming, attending car shows and events to showcase their modified vehicles and connect with other car enthusiasts.
The popularity of camming cars has also been fueled by the availability of information and resources online. There are numerous forums and websites dedicated to car modification, providing a wealth of information and advice for those looking to get started.
What are the benefits of a cammed car?
If you’re a car enthusiast, you may have heard of “camming” a car. This involves replacing the stock camshaft with an aftermarket camshaft to improve engine performance. But what are the benefits of a cammed car? Here are five:
Increased horsepower: Camming a car can increase its horsepower by improving the flow of air and fuel to the engine, allowing it to burn more efficiently.
Improved throttle response: An upgraded camshaft can improve throttle response by opening the engine’s valves more quickly and keeping them open longer, providing more power to the wheels.
Better sound: Camming a car can also improve the engine’s sound by giving it a more aggressive and unique tone.
More torque: A cammed engine can also produce more torque, which can help with acceleration and towing.
Customization: With so many aftermarket camshafts available, camming a car allows for a high degree of customization, giving car enthusiasts the ability to tailor their vehicle’s performance to their individual preferences.
Increased Power and Torque
Camming a car can greatly increase its power and torque. The camshaft controls the amount of air and fuel that flows into the engine, which in turn affects how much power the car can produce.
By installing a performance camshaft, the engine can produce more power and torque at higher RPMs. This is because the camshaft opens the valves for a longer period of time, allowing more air and fuel to flow into the engine.
The increase in power and torque can be especially noticeable in high-performance engines. The increased power can result in quicker acceleration and a higher top speed, while the increase in torque can improve the car’s towing ability.
How to Identify if a Car is Cammed?
Identifying if a car is cammed can be difficult, but there are some tell-tale signs to look for. First, listen to the engine sound for a choppy, lopey idle that sounds different from a stock engine.
Second, check the exhaust note for a louder, deeper sound. Cammed engines usually produce more exhaust gases, so a noticeable increase in exhaust volume may be an indication that the car has a cam installed.
Third, check the performance of the car. Cammed cars typically have improved low-end torque and high-end power, so if the car feels stronger and more responsive than a stock version, it may be cammed.
Fourth, look for modifications to the engine, such as aftermarket camshafts, valve springs, and rocker arms. These parts are often upgraded when a car is cammed, so their presence can be a strong indication.
Fifth and finally, consult with the previous owner or have the car inspected by a mechanic who is familiar with cammed engines. They may be able to provide valuable insight into the modifications made to the car.
Listening to the Engine
One of the easiest ways to identify if a car is cammed is by listening to the engine. When you start the car, listen for a lumpy or choppy sound that is distinct from a smooth engine noise. The choppy sound is produced by the lope of the camshaft that controls the valve lift and duration.
The choppy sound is not always a clear indication that the car has a camshaft installed. Some engines naturally produce a choppy sound, and it can be hard to differentiate between the two without experience.
If you’re unsure, take the car to a mechanic or experienced car enthusiast to listen to the engine and confirm if the car has a camshaft or not.
It’s worth noting that if the car has other modifications or aftermarket parts, they may also contribute to the engine sound and make it harder to identify if the car is cammed.
Looking for Aftermarket Parts
If listening to the engine doesn’t provide enough information, there are other signs you can look for to determine if a car has a cam installed. One of the most telling signs is the presence of aftermarket parts. A camshaft upgrade typically requires a few supporting modifications to ensure the engine can handle the additional power. Here are some aftermarket parts that may indicate a cam upgrade:
| Aftermarket Part | Reason for Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Performance exhaust system | Increased airflow to support the added power |
| Upgraded intake manifold | Allows for more air to be drawn into the engine |
| High-performance ignition system | Provides a stronger spark for improved combustion |
| Upgraded fuel injectors | Ensures the engine is receiving enough fuel to support the added power |
| Performance chip or tuner | Adjusts engine settings to optimize performance |
If you notice one or more of these aftermarket parts on a car, it could be a sign that it has been cammed. Of course, these parts alone do not guarantee that a car has a cam installed, but they do provide a good starting point for further investigation.
Examining the Camshaft Itself
If you have access to the engine, you can examine the camshaft to determine if a car has been cammed. The camshaft is located within the engine block and operates the valves. A stock camshaft will have a relatively smooth surface. However, a performance camshaft will have a more aggressive profile, with bumps and lobes. These bumps and lobes are designed to keep the valves open longer and let more air and fuel into the engine, increasing performance.
Another way to tell if a car has an aftermarket camshaft is to look for a stamp or etching on the camshaft. Often, camshaft manufacturers will stamp their logo or a unique identifier on the camshaft. This can help you determine if the camshaft is stock or aftermarket. If the camshaft has no markings, it is most likely a stock camshaft. However, if there is a manufacturer’s logo or unique identifier, it is likely that the camshaft has been upgraded.