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10 Best Camshaft For 350 Chevy 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

COMP Cams K12-600-4 Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit for Chevrolet Small Block

The COMP Cams K12-600-4 Thumpr camshaft is designed for those looking to improve performance in Chevrolet Small Block engines, particularly popular in muscle cars and street rods. This camshaft boasts impressive specifications, including a lift of 0.479"/0.465", 227/241 duration at .050", and a 107-degree lobe separation angle. It operates optimally within a 2,000 to 5,800 RPM range, making it a solid choice for spirited street driving and racing scenarios.

One of its main strengths is the distinctive choppy idle it produces, which many enthusiasts find appealing. This camshaft is especially effective when paired with aftermarket converters and rear gears, enhancing the engine’s power band and creating a powerful, throaty exhaust note that muscle car fans crave. Users appreciate the inclusion of a comprehensive K Kit, which typically contains not just the camshaft, but also lifters, valve springs, retainer kits, and timing set, facilitating a complete upgrade.

There are some drawbacks to consider. This camshaft is best suited for performance applications and may not be ideal for daily drivers or those who prefer a smoother idle. Additionally, it does not fit newer LT1/LT4 engines or factory roller Small Blocks built from 1985 onward, which can limit its applicability.

#2

Competition Cams Competition Cams 12-600-4 Camshaft Only Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Chevrolet Small Block

The Competition Cams 12-600-4 Thumpr camshaft is designed for Chevy small block engines, offering a noticeable performance boost for street use. With advertised durations of 279/297 and actual durations at .050 inch of 227/241, it provides strong valve lift (.479 intake / .465 exhaust) and a lobe separation angle of 107 degrees. This setup results in a choppy, thumping idle, which some enthusiasts enjoy for its aggressive sound, but it may be less comfortable for daily drivers. Best suited for engines with a 2000+ stall converter and upgraded gears, it delivers good power in the mid to upper RPM range, making it ideal for street performance or mild competition use.

Keep in mind, this cam requires upgraded valve springs due to its aggressive profile, adding to installation considerations. Installation is straightforward with a bolt-on design specific to Chevy 350 engines. Weighing about 8.6 pounds, it is a quality, machined camshaft known for reliability. While it excels at enhancing throttle response and engine sound, those seeking a smooth idle or low-RPM drivability might find it less suited.

This camshaft is a strong choice for Chevy 350 owners looking to add a distinctive lope and improved mid-range power without going full race cam.

#3

Genuine COMP CAM 12-602-4 Big Mutha Thumpr 243/257 Camshaft | LIFT: .500/.486" | High-Performance Lifters | Double Roller Timing | Push Rods | Kit FITS Chevrolet SBC 283 327 350 400 5.7 5.7L

The COMP CAM 12-602-4 Big Mutha Thumpr camshaft kit is designed for Chevrolet small block engines, including the 350 Chevy, and targets enthusiasts looking for noticeable performance gains on street or strip setups. With a lift of .500/.486" and duration of 243/257 degrees, this camshaft offers a strong boost in power and throttle response, making it ideal for those wanting a louder, more aggressive engine feel.

The included components, like high-performance hydraulic lifters, a double roller timing set, and push rods, ensure you get a complete kit that’s ready to install, which adds value especially for users wanting a reliable, matched upgrade. The 4-degree crank offset and the cam’s specifications suit engines with around 9.5:1 compression and require supporting mods like intake gears, headers, and a 2800+ stall converter to work best.

This camshaft produces a very rough idle, which might not be ideal if you want a smooth daily driver. It is best for those who prioritize power and sound over quiet operation or fuel efficiency. This kit is an excellent option for Chevy 350 owners seeking a bold performance upgrade with quality parts included, but users should be prepared for a coarse idle and the need for complementary modifications to unlock its full potential.

Buying Guide for the Best Camshaft For 350 Chevy

Choosing the right camshaft for your 350 Chevy engine is crucial for optimizing performance and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly. The camshaft is a key component in the engine's valve train, controlling the timing and duration of the opening and closing of the valves. This directly affects the engine's power, efficiency, and overall performance. When selecting a camshaft, it's important to consider your vehicle's intended use, whether it's for daily driving, racing, or towing. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
LiftLift refers to how far the camshaft opens the valves. Higher lift can increase the amount of air and fuel mixture entering the engine, which can boost power. However, too much lift can cause wear and tear on the valve train components. For street performance, a moderate lift is usually sufficient, while racing applications may benefit from higher lift values.
DurationDuration is the amount of time the valve stays open, measured in degrees of crankshaft rotation. Longer duration can improve high-RPM power but may reduce low-end torque and idle quality. For daily driving, a shorter duration is typically preferred for better drivability and fuel efficiency. For racing, a longer duration can help achieve higher performance at the expense of low-end power.
Lobe Separation Angle (LSA)Lobe Separation Angle (LSA) is the angle between the intake and exhaust lobes on the camshaft. A wider LSA can improve idle quality and vacuum, making it suitable for street use. A narrower LSA can increase overlap, which can enhance high-RPM performance but may result in a rougher idle. Choose an LSA based on whether you prioritize smooth operation or maximum performance.
RPM RangeThe RPM range indicates the engine speeds at which the camshaft performs best. Camshafts designed for low to mid-range RPMs are ideal for street driving and towing, providing good low-end torque and drivability. High RPM camshafts are better suited for racing, where maximum power at high engine speeds is desired. Match the camshaft's RPM range to your driving style and vehicle use.
Valve TimingValve timing refers to the timing of the opening and closing of the valves in relation to the position of the piston. Proper valve timing ensures optimal engine performance and efficiency. Adjustable timing can allow for fine-tuning to match specific performance goals. Consider a camshaft with adjustable timing if you plan to make precise adjustments for racing or high-performance applications.

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