Performance Camshafts

Hello to the forum. I'm a new member with many questions to ask of all of you. From reading many of the posts, I know that expert knowledge can be found here

I am currently restoring/rebuilding my 1970 Fastback which I bought in 1978 and a 1971 SS basket case which I bought fairly recently.

My first question concerns camshafts. Specifically, the PW3, the modified ramp PW3 and the 4S. I currently have the standard, the 2S and the 4S camshafts.

My question to the forum is for opinions regarding what camshaft would you recommend for someone looking for increased power without losing "too much" mid-range power. I know this is a subjective requirement.

My understanding from reading the many posts here is that a 4S, a PW3 or a modified PW3 would be best.

I have read about the requirement for increased valve clearance for some of these cams and I would like to avoid the clattering, if possible.

Is there a current supplier of modified ramp PW3 cams?

All comments will be appreciated.

Ed

Check the 'new messages' link above. I've sent you a pm.

Fast Eddie said:

Check the 'new messages' link above. I've sent you a pm.

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Don't keep it to yourself! I have been contemplating a change myself, and value your input. Besides, we haven't had a good $h!t storm since the last discussion about engine oil/clutch plates/tires/carburetors/exhaust pipe diameters/iso clearances/chains/alternators...

Nathan

Nater_Potater said:

Fast Eddie said:

Check the 'new messages' link above. I've sent you a pm.

Click to expand...

Don't keep it to yourself! I have been contemplating a change myself, and value your input. Besides, we haven't had a good $h!t storm since the last discussion about engine oil/clutch plates/tires/carburetors/exhaust pipe diameters/iso clearances/chains/alternators...

Nathan

Click to expand...

Well, my solution is a very special cam, which opens the in and ex together, then replace the carbs with some exhausts, then reverse the reed valve crankcase breather, fix a carb to it and voila...

An 850 2 stroke twin...!

(But don't tell anyone)

All of the nonstock cam choices appear to be aimed at increasing peak HP. Are there any that increase midrange beyond stock level?

Glen

APRRSV said:

Is there a current supplier of modified ramp PW3 cams?

All comments will be appreciated.

Ed

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YES - SEE "NEW PRODUCT RELEASE - SMOOTH RAMP PW3/JS2 CAM" .

I have given the PW3 cam profile a smoother ramp to make things easier on the valve train and avoid bounce. It uses BSA lifters. It comes as a complete kit with lifter blocks etc. This is a special order cam.

worntorn said:

All of the nonstock cam choices appear to be aimed at increasing peak HP. Are there any that increase midrange beyond stock level?

Glen

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Yes, the Webcam #312 does increase the midrange as will the 312a if used with radius cut lifters. Both are excellent on the street. Jim

APRRSV said:

Is there a current supplier of modified ramp PW3 cams?

Click to expand...

This is a great thread to look at. cams-t12813.html

Partially why I bought one of Jim's 312A's.

Thanks to all who have responded. I think now I have the info/sources of info I need to make a decision.

Ed

When you guys buy a cam and discuss how it changes the power band, do you ever ask what exhaust system configuration the cam is most suited to ? - what the cam developer was using when he tested the cam in a motor ? It is easy to build a motor which will scare you shitless, however not so easy to build one which gives good all-round performance. In the olden days we used to choose between straight pipes, straight pipes with mufflers and straight pipes with megaphones and use the same cam timings for all of them. 2 into 1 pipes are different and probably a better answer.
I notice Jim Schmidt is offering a nice new PW3 cam - I wonder how he had that set up in his own bike and optimised it ?