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As I am in the market for a cam, it is time that I learned everything about them.

obviously bigger cams mean that the motor breathes longer/better contributing to an increase in HP. As the motor is just a big pump, and the more air you put into it, the more power you get out.

I've noticed that cams with higher duration tend to be labeled "wild" I assume that this means the output is greater, but tends to come at higher RPM, with the higher duration.
Is this right?

But then there are those which have increased lift, and a shorter duration. Are these torque producers? The numbers (lift/duration) would suggest that there is a steeper ramp on the cam. Do any special parts/mods have to be made to accomodate the steeper ramp?

What's the deal with adjustable cam gears. Why would one want to adjust the cam/is it worth it. To change the valve timing, would one access the gear through the oil pump recess? What does it accomplish to advance or retard valve timing?

Jake, you mentioned in an earlier post a 218 grind i went to webcams' page and noticed that the 218 is a type 1 cam, do you think they could grind something similar for the type 4?

TIA

-K
Manx 2.0L

[This message has been edited by kokanee (edited 08-28-2000).]

The adjustable cam gear is usefull in situations such as a drag racer who races at several strips. If one of the strips has a lack of traction he can adjust the cam to help get better bite. It is not something you would use often on a daily driver, I'd spend the money you could save on head work.

The car spends 1/3 of its time on the street (some highway), 1/3 in tow, and the other 1/3 off-road. And sees about 2500 mi/yr.

So, if the motor only lasts 50k, I would be happy. it's a manx, so it is lightweight. I would like it to pull in the low end rather than in higher rpm, as well, I am more concerned with acceleration than top end.

The 2.0 I am building as follows:

--Stock shroud/alt etc.
--"modified" bursch exhaust
--weber 40's reworked W/cbperf update kit
--webcam camshaft (undecided)
--914 2.0 heads polished, not ported
--CR at 7.6 (stock)
--050 dist
--swivelfoot adjusters

may update in a few yrs to:

--aftermarket FI
--upright shroud
--worked 1.8 heads

any suggestions welcome,

K-

I pretty much agree with JR on that cam. But I add that I am a firm believer in dual pattern cams for a T4 engine. More duration and lift on the exhaust will definetly be a plus for breathing on the exit side of the equation. Also 105/106 lobe centers are nice also compared to a T1. I'm anxiously awaiting firing up and driving my T4 that I had FAT do a custom cam for. The specs are on my web site, which is listed in my profile ( this site has ALL the features!!!), Hope this helps ya a bit.

------------------
Tom Notch
airdoc@aircooled.net