“Camming a car” is a popular modification among automotive enthusiasts looking to enhance their vehicle’s performance. It involves replacing the factory camshaft with a high-performance aftermarket unit, designed to optimize engine power and torque output. This seemingly simple swap can significantly transform your driving experience, delivering noticeable improvements in acceleration, throttle response, and overall engine character.
This article delves into the intricacies of what does it mean if a car is cammed, exploring the process, benefits, and potential performance gains associated with how to cammed a car. We’ll cover everything from understanding the role of the camshaft to the steps involved in replacement and the noticeable changes you can expect in your vehicle’s sound and feel.
What is Camming a Car?
At its core, what does it mean to cam a car boils down to replacing the factory-installed camshaft with a performance-oriented one. The camshaft is a crucial engine component responsible for controlling the opening and closing of intake and exhaust valves. By altering the timing and duration of these valve events, a performance camshaft can significantly influence engine power output, torque characteristics, and overall responsiveness.
A standard factory camshaft is typically designed to prioritize fuel efficiency and smooth operation across a wide RPM range. In contrast, aftermarket performance cams are engineered for specific applications, focusing on maximizing horsepower and torque within a particular RPM band. This often results in a more aggressive engine character with increased power delivery at higher RPMs.
Benefits of Camming Your Car
How do you cam a car? While the process itself involves mechanical expertise, the benefits of what does a cammed car mean are often worth the investment for performance-minded drivers.
- Increased Horsepower and Torque: This is the most sought-after benefit of camming. Performance cams optimize valve timing to allow for greater air intake and exhaust flow, leading to increased combustion efficiency and ultimately, higher horsepower and torque figures.
Improved Throttle Response: A cammed engine typically exhibits a more immediate and responsive throttle reaction. This translates to quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.
Enhanced Engine Sound: Camming often results in a more distinctive and throaty exhaust note, adding a layer of auditory excitement to the driving experience.
- Potential for Increased Fuel Efficiency (in some cases): While not always the primary focus, certain performance camshafts can be designed to improve fuel economy at cruising speeds by optimizing valve timing for better combustion efficiency.
Cam Shaft Replacement Process
Cam shaft replacement is a complex procedure that requires specialized tools and mechanical expertise. It’s generally recommended to have this work performed by a qualified mechanic experienced in engine modifications.
The process typically involves:
- Engine Disassembly: Removing the necessary components, such as valve covers, timing belt/chain, and other related parts, to access the camshaft.
- Camshaft Removal: Carefully removing the old factory camshaft from its bearings.
- New Camshaft Installation: Installing the new performance camshaft, ensuring proper alignment and securing it in place.
- Valve Adjustment: Adjusting valve clearances according to the specifications of the new camshaft.
- Reassembly: Reinstalling all removed components, ensuring proper torque settings and lubrication.
Performance Gains with Camshaft Upgrades
The specific performance gains achieved through a camshaft upgrade depend on several factors, including:
- Type of Cam Shaft: Different camshafts are designed for various applications and RPM ranges. Some prioritize low-end torque, while others focus on high-RPM horsepower.
- Engine Size and Configuration: Larger engines generally benefit more from camshaft upgrades due to their increased displacement.
- Other Modifications: The presence of other performance modifications, such as intake and exhaust upgrades, can further enhance the gains achieved through a camshaft swap.
Typical performance improvements with a well-chosen camshaft can include:
- 5-20% Increase in Horsepower
- 10-30% Increase in Torque
- Improved Throttle Response and Acceleration
Cammed Car Sound and Feel
A cammed car often exhibits a distinct sound signature, characterized by a deeper, throatier exhaust note. This is due to the altered valve timing influencing the engine’s combustion cycle and exhaust gas flow.
Beyond the auditory changes, driving a cammed car offers a more engaging feel. The increased horsepower and torque translate into quicker acceleration and a more responsive throttle, making the driving experience more exhilarating.
Conclusion
Camming your car can be a rewarding modification for those seeking to enhance their vehicle’s performance and driving experience. By understanding the intricacies of how to cammed a car and the potential benefits, you can make an informed decision about whether this upgrade is right for your needs. Remember, proper installation by a qualified mechanic is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.