Home Back

Cam Calculator

Camshaft Parameters:

Various calculations for camshaft performance metrics including lift, duration, and lobe separation angle.

degrees
inches
degrees
ratio

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Camshaft Calculation?

Camshaft calculations help determine key performance characteristics of an engine's valvetrain. These parameters affect engine power, torque, and operating range.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses standard camshaft formulas to estimate:

3. Importance of Camshaft Parameters

Details: Proper camshaft selection is crucial for engine performance. Duration affects power band, lift affects airflow, and LSA affects torque characteristics and idle quality.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter duration at 0.050" lift, valve lift, lobe separation angle, and rocker ratio. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between advertised and @0.050" duration?
A: Advertised duration is measured from the first movement of the lifter, while @0.050" is measured from when the lifter has risen 0.050", giving a more standardized measurement.

Q2: How does lobe separation affect performance?
A: Narrower LSA (104-108°) increases overlap for high-RPM power, while wider LSA (112-116°) improves idle quality and low-end torque.

Q3: What is a typical rocker arm ratio?
A: Common ratios are 1.5:1 or 1.6:1 for pushrod engines, though ratios up to 1.8:1 exist for performance applications.

Q4: How does valve lift affect engine performance?
A: More lift generally increases airflow and power potential, but requires proper spring pressure and piston-to-valve clearance.

Q5: What is a good amount of valve overlap?
A: Street engines typically have 5-15° overlap, while race engines may have 30-60° or more for high-RPM power.

Cam Calculator© - All Rights Reserved 2025