Author Topic: Cam upgrade 350 5.7  (Read 2197 times)

Offline Binder307

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Cam upgrade 350 5.7
« on: April 06, 2013, 06:35:23 pm »
So I have done some looking on the site but haven't found a solid answer on a good cam. I have a 78 k20 4spd 350 5.7.
I also have an performance intake with some long tube headers and a edlebrock 650 carb. I would really like to add some power to the motor and get great sound. I found several cams on Summit Racing but I am unclear as to what all I need to get with the cam. Can I get a mid size cam nothing huge and simply swap it out for the old one? Will I need to get lifter springs and rods? Thanks for the help in advance.
 

Offline Fairlane514

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Re: Cam upgrade 350 5.7
« Reply #1 on: April 06, 2013, 08:12:16 pm »
If its flat tappet you will have to get the cam and lifters at a minimum. Springs depend on the cam specs. Pushrods should be the same unless you mill the heads or change rocker arm geometry.

Offline 79gmc15

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Re: Cam upgrade 350 5.7
« Reply #2 on: April 06, 2013, 08:13:35 pm »
Rods, probably not. Springs depends on how much lift and how old your current springs are. You should check out the comp 268he cam. Springs of course would be smart and are not terribly hard to do and also be a good time to replace your valve stem seals and umbrella seals at the same time. 

Offline Jason S

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Re: Cam upgrade 350 5.7
« Reply #3 on: April 07, 2013, 10:03:52 pm »
I would suggest you contact the camshaft company (whichever one you choose) and tell them what you want to do.  Gear ratios, transmission type (auto vs. manual), vehicle weight and desired performance will make a difference in choosing the most suitable camshaft. 
« Last Edit: April 07, 2013, 10:05:30 pm by Jason S »
1973 GMC K2500, Super Custom, Camper Special, 350, TH350, NP203, 4.10's
1974 Chevrolet K10, Custom Deluxe, 350, SM465, NP203, 3.73's

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Offline Binder307

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Re: Cam upgrade 350 5.7
« Reply #4 on: April 19, 2013, 04:05:51 pm »
Thanks for all the info. I am defiantly going to look into all of that. My truck has a backfiring/ bogging issue that i still haven't been able to diagnose but as soon as I get it running right I am going to go ahead and get a new cam setup.
Once again thanks for all of the information it was very helpful.