Another cam question

[Rod Wagner]

Ok, I'm ready to rebuild my 283 for my '60. Single 4 barrel. Stock crank & pistons.
I would like to get a little more low-end pep. I realize this will sacrifice the top end, but I'm not planning any high speed stuff anyway.
What cam would this board suggest for this application?
I have also heard of advancing the cam timing 4 degrees. Any thoughts on this are also appreciated.

[Michael H.]

Re: Another cam question

Rod,

First question would be, was/is this mechanical or hydraulic lifters? If mechanical, my first choice would be a correct reproduction of the original 3736097 cam that could/would have come in the engine when new. Great sound and good low/mid torque. Cam should be available from several aftermarket suppliers.

[Duke W.]

Re: Another cam question

The single four-barrel 283 was the "base cam" engine. This cam was later used in 250 and 300 HP 327s. The original "early" base cam is no longer available as it was replaced circa 1967 by a new cam of similar spec that carried through on base engines to about 1980.

This is considered a "high torque" cam, but will be less torquey in a short than longer stroke engine.

Being as how your engine only has a nominal 9.5:1 CR and as built is probably lower you can run a very aggressive centrifugal advance curve with premium fuel, which is a good way to get more low end torque.

Duke

[Joe L.]

Re: Another cam question

Rod-----

My primary recommendation would be the GM #3896929 cam. This is also the GM approved SERVICE camshaft for your engine. It will provide a little more torque than your original camshaft and be fully compatible with everything else. It's GM-discontinued, but a Crane-manufactured reproduction is available in a kit with lifters under GM #12364051. This is a very good cam for low end torque in all small block engines.

If you want to "venture out" a bit more, I would recommend a Speed Pro retrofit hydraulic roller. For your application, I would recommend the CS-1061R grind. This is available as a complete kit with camshaft, lifters, pushrods, and cam button under Speed-Pro KS-1061R. This kit is not inexpensive, but, in my opinion, it's the "cats meow" for what you're after.

[Kenneth G.]

Re: Another cam question

joe,

is this the 350hp cam?

kenny #31871

[Joe L.]

Re: Another cam question

kenny-----

No, the 3896929 is commonly known as the "300 horsepower cam", although it was used for other horsepower ratings and was used for even more applications in SERVICE.