Camming Your Car: How to Get the Best Deal
Modifying your car's camshaft, or "camming," is a popular way to boost horsepower and torque. But navigating the world of camshafts, installation costs, and finding the best deals can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get the best deal on camming your car, from choosing the right cam to finding reliable mechanics.
What is Camming and Why Do It?
Before diving into cost-saving strategies, let's clarify what camming entails. Your car's camshaft controls the timing of your engine's valves, regulating when they open and close to allow fuel and air into the cylinders and exhaust gases out. A performance camshaft alters this timing, often allowing for more aggressive valve lift and duration, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. However, this often comes at the cost of some low-end drivability and potentially increased fuel consumption. The specific gains depend on the camshaft profile, engine type, and other modifications.
Choosing the Right Camshaft: Performance vs. Budget
The cost of camming starts with the camshaft itself. Prices vary wildly depending on the brand, material (steel, billet), and intended application. Aggressive racing cams are significantly more expensive than milder street cams.
Factors influencing camshaft cost:
- Brand reputation: Established brands often command higher prices due to their reputation for quality and performance.
- Material: Billet camshafts are generally more expensive than steel but often offer greater precision and durability.
- Grind specifications: The specific valve lift, duration, and lobe separation angle significantly influence performance and cost. More aggressive profiles typically cost more.
- Application: Cams designed for specific engine modifications or racing applications will be more specialized and usually more expensive.
Finding a balance: It's crucial to select a camshaft that matches your budget and performance goals. Don't overspend on a high-performance cam if your engine isn't modified to take advantage of it. Research and consult with experienced mechanics or online forums to find the right cam for your setup.
Installation Costs: Professional vs. DIY
This is where a significant portion of your camming costs lies. Professional installation is highly recommended, especially for inexperienced mechanics. Incorrect installation can lead to severe engine damage.
Cost breakdown:
- Labor: This is the most variable cost, depending on the mechanic's hourly rate and the complexity of the installation. Expect to pay several hundred to over a thousand dollars, potentially more for specialized engines.
- Parts: Beyond the camshaft, you might need additional components like valve springs, pushrods, lifters, and timing components, depending on the camshaft and engine. These costs can add up considerably.
DIY vs. Professional: While a DIY approach can save on labor costs, it carries substantial risks. Improper installation can lead to engine damage, costing far more than professional installation. Weigh the potential savings against the risk of costly repairs.
What are the different types of camshafts?
Camshafts are categorized based on their profile, which dictates the timing and duration of valve lift. There are street cams, designed for daily driving and mild performance improvements, and race cams, engineered for maximum power at the expense of drivability. Hydraulic cams use hydraulic lifters to adjust valve lash automatically, while solid lifter cams require manual adjustment. The choice depends on your budget, car usage, and performance goals.
How much does it cost to install a camshaft?
The cost to install a camshaft varies significantly depending on the car's make and model, the type of camshaft, and the mechanic's labor rate. Expect to pay anywhere from several hundred to well over a thousand dollars, excluding parts. Factors like engine accessibility and the need for additional modifications can increase the cost.
Can I install a camshaft myself?
While theoretically possible, installing a camshaft is a complex procedure requiring specialized tools and significant mechanical knowledge. Incorrect installation can lead to irreversible engine damage. Unless you have extensive experience working on engines, professional installation is strongly recommended.
Finding the Best Deal: Strategies for Saving Money
- Shop around for camshafts: Compare prices from different suppliers and consider used, but verified, camshafts in excellent condition.
- Negotiate labor costs: Get quotes from multiple mechanics and inquire about potential discounts or package deals.
- DIY (with caution): If you're mechanically inclined and have experience, a DIY approach can significantly reduce labor costs, but only proceed if you're confident in your abilities.
- Timing is crucial: Look for sales and promotions from parts suppliers.
- Bundle your services: If you're undertaking other engine modifications, see if the mechanic offers discounts for bundled services.
Conclusion
Camming your car can significantly enhance performance, but it's a significant investment. By carefully planning, researching component costs, and comparing installation quotes, you can get the best deal while ensuring a professional and reliable installation. Remember, cutting corners can lead to far greater expenses in the long run. Prioritize selecting the right camshaft for your needs and budget, and always prioritize professional installation unless you have extensive experience.
