Unleash the Power of Your 383 Stroker with the Best Camshaft Selection: Top Picks and Reviews

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Find the best cam for your 383 stroker engine! Get maximum power and performance with our top picks.


When it comes to building a 383 stroker engine, choosing the right camshaft is crucial to achieving optimal performance. The camshaft plays a critical role in determining the power output and overall characteristics of an engine. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best cam for your setup.

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a camshaft for your 383 stroker is the intended use of the engine. Are you building a street machine or a high-performance race car? Do you prioritize low-end torque or high-end horsepower? These questions will help guide your decision.

Another key consideration is the valve lift and duration of the camshaft. Higher lift and longer duration typically result in more power, but also require careful tuning and can reduce low-end torque. A good balance must be struck to achieve the desired power curve.

One popular option for a 383 stroker is the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR282HR. This camshaft offers a strong mid-range power band and excellent overall performance. With a duration of 282/288 and lift of .520/.523, this cam is a great choice for street machines and mild race builds.

For those seeking even more power, the Lunati Voodoo 60103 is a top contender. This aggressive camshaft features a duration of 262/268 and lift of .515/.530, delivering impressive gains in both horsepower and torque. However, it may not be suitable for daily driving due to its rough idle and narrow power band.

If you're on a budget, the Comp Cams XE274H is an excellent value option that still delivers solid performance. With a duration of 274/286 and lift of .490/.490, this cam provides a noticeable improvement over stock without breaking the bank.

When it comes to selecting the best cam for your 383 stroker, it's important to also consider the rest of your build. Matching components such as the intake manifold, carburetor, and exhaust system can further enhance performance and ensure optimal operation.

Proper installation and tuning are also critical to achieving maximum power and reliability from your camshaft. Be sure to consult with a professional engine builder or tuner to ensure proper fitment and calibration.

In conclusion, choosing the right camshaft is a crucial step in building a high-performance 383 stroker engine. Consider your intended use, valve lift and duration, and budget when making your selection. With the right cam and supporting components, you can unleash the full potential of your engine and enjoy a thrilling driving experience.


Introduction

A 383 stroker is an engine that is built using a Chevrolet 350 as its base. The engine is stroked to increase its displacement to 383 cubic inches. This modification significantly increases the engine's horsepower and torque. However, adding a camshaft to your 383 stroker can increase its performance even further. A cam determines when the intake and exhaust valves open and close, which affects the engine's power output. In this article, we will discuss some of the best cams for a 383 stroker.

Types of Camshafts

Before we get into the best cams for a 383 stroker, let's first discuss the different types of camshafts available. There are three main types of camshafts: hydraulic, solid, and roller. Hydraulic camshafts use oil pressure to adjust the lifters, while solid camshafts have fixed lifters. Roller camshafts have roller lifters that reduce friction and wear. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Hydraulic Camshafts

Hydraulic camshafts are ideal for street use because they are quieter and require less maintenance than solid camshafts. They also provide better low-end torque and smoother idle. However, they are not suitable for high-performance applications because they tend to float at high RPMs.

Solid Camshafts

Solid camshafts are preferred for high-performance applications because they provide more lift and duration than hydraulic camshafts. They also have a more aggressive sound and can withstand higher RPMs. However, they require more maintenance and are noisier than hydraulic camshafts.

Roller Camshafts

Roller camshafts are the most expensive and offer the best performance. They have roller lifters that reduce friction and wear, resulting in less heat and more horsepower. They also provide better low-end torque and are ideal for high-performance applications. However, they require special parts and can be challenging to install.

Best Cams for a 383 Stroker

Now that we know the different types of camshafts let's discuss some of the best cams for a 383 stroker.

Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR282HR

The Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR282HR is one of the most popular cams for a 383 stroker. It is a hydraulic camshaft that offers excellent low-end torque and mid-range power. It has a duration of 282/288 and a lift of .510/.520. This camshaft is suitable for daily driving and occasional track use.

Lunati Voodoo 60103LK

The Lunati Voodoo 60103LK is a solid camshaft that offers excellent top-end power. It has a duration of 262/268 and a lift of .504/.525. This camshaft is suitable for drag racing and other high-performance applications.

Crane Cams Energizer 272H-10

The Crane Cams Energizer 272H-10 is a hydraulic camshaft that offers excellent low-end torque and mid-range power. It has a duration of 272/282 and a lift of .454/.480. This camshaft is suitable for street use and occasional track use.

Howards Cams 120245-08

The Howards Cams 120245-08 is a solid camshaft that offers excellent top-end power. It has a duration of 245/249 and a lift of .525/.530. This camshaft is suitable for drag racing and other high-performance applications.

Comp Cams Thumpr

The Comp Cams Thumpr is a hydraulic camshaft that offers an aggressive idle and excellent mid-range power. It has a duration of 227/241 and a lift of .479/.465. This camshaft is suitable for street use and occasional track use.

Conclusion

Selecting the right camshaft for your 383 stroker depends on your driving needs and preferences. Hydraulic camshafts offer better low-end torque and smoother idle, while solid camshafts provide more lift and duration. Roller camshafts offer the best performance but are also the most expensive. The cams discussed in this article are some of the best options for a 383 stroker, but there are many other choices available. Be sure to consult with an expert before making your final decision.


Understanding the 383 Stroker Engine

The 383 stroker engine is a popular choice among car enthusiasts and racers due to its high-performance capabilities. It is essentially a modified version of the classic small-block Chevy engine, with a larger displacement of 383 cubic inches. This increased displacement results in more power and torque output, making it a great option for racing and high-performance driving.One of the key features of the 383 stroker engine is its high compression ratio, which can reach up to 11:1 or even higher with the right modifications. This high compression ratio contributes to its impressive power output, but also requires careful tuning and maintenance to avoid engine damage.Another important factor to consider when working with a 383 stroker engine is the choice of camshaft. The camshaft plays a critical role in controlling the timing and duration of the engine's valve movements, which in turn affects its power and torque output. In the next section, we'll explore some of the key factors to consider when choosing the best camshaft for your 383 stroker engine.

Factors to Consider in Choosing the Best Cam for 383 Stroker

When selecting a camshaft for your 383 stroker engine, there are several key factors to consider. These include:Intended Use: The first thing to consider is how you plan to use your 383 stroker engine. Will it primarily be used for street driving, drag racing, or other types of high-performance driving? Different camshafts are designed for different applications, so it's important to choose one that is tailored to your specific needs.Compression Ratio: As mentioned earlier, the high compression ratio of the 383 stroker engine requires careful consideration when choosing a camshaft. A camshaft with too much duration or lift can cause the engine to ping or detonate, leading to engine damage. On the other hand, a camshaft that is too mild may not take full advantage of the engine's potential power output.Valve Timing: The timing of the engine's valve movements is critical to its overall performance. A camshaft with aggressive valve timing can increase power and torque output, but may also require additional modifications to the engine's valvetrain and exhaust system.Lobe Separation Angle: The lobe separation angle (LSA) refers to the spacing between the intake and exhaust lobes on the camshaft. A narrower LSA can improve low-end torque and throttle response, while a wider LSA can improve high-end power. However, choosing the wrong LSA can lead to poor idle quality and drivability issues.Engine RPM Range: Finally, it's important to consider the engine's RPM range when selecting a camshaft. A camshaft that is designed for high RPMs may not perform as well at lower speeds, and vice versa. Choosing a camshaft that is optimized for your engine's intended RPM range can help maximize its performance and efficiency.

Hydraulic vs Solid Camshafts for 383 Stroker

Another important consideration when choosing a camshaft for your 383 stroker engine is whether to go with a hydraulic or solid design. Here's a brief overview of each:Hydraulic Camshafts: Hydraulic camshafts use hydraulic lifters to control valve movement, which helps reduce wear and tear on the engine's valvetrain. They are generally easier to install and maintain than solid camshafts, and are a good choice for street-driven engines that don't require extreme performance.Solid Camshafts: Solid camshafts use mechanical lifters to control valve movement, which provides more precise control over valve duration and lift. They are typically more aggressive than hydraulic camshafts, and are a better choice for high-performance engines that will be used for racing or other demanding applications.When deciding between hydraulic and solid camshafts for your 383 stroker engine, it's important to consider your intended use and performance goals. Hydraulic camshafts are generally more forgiving and easier to work with, while solid camshafts offer greater control and precision.

Best Camshaft Brands for 383 Stroker

There are many different camshaft brands on the market, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Some of the top brands for 383 stroker engines include:Comp Cams: Comp Cams is one of the most well-known and respected names in the camshaft industry, with a wide range of products for all types of engines. Their Xtreme Energy and Thumpr camshafts are popular choices for 383 stroker engines.Lunati: Lunati is another top camshaft manufacturer with a strong reputation for quality and performance. Their Voodoo and Bootlegger camshafts are excellent options for 383 stroker engines.Crower: Crower has been in the camshaft business for over 50 years, and offers a range of high-quality camshafts for a variety of applications. Their Enduro and Beast series camshafts are popular choices for 383 stroker engines.Crane Cams: Crane Cams has been producing high-performance camshafts since 1953, and has earned a reputation for top-notch quality and performance. Their Energizer and Fireball camshafts are great options for 383 stroker engines.

Top Picks for High-Performance Cams for 383 Stroker

If you're looking to maximize the power and performance of your 383 stroker engine, here are some of the top high-performance camshafts to consider:Comp Cams Xtreme Energy: The Xtreme Energy camshaft from Comp Cams is designed for high-performance street driving and mild racing applications. It features a hydraulic design with aggressive valve timing and lift, and is available in a range of profiles to suit your specific needs.Lunati Voodoo: The Voodoo camshaft from Lunati is another great option for high-performance 383 stroker engines. It features a solid design with aggressive valve timing and lift, and is optimized for mid to high RPM ranges.Crower Enduro: The Enduro camshaft from Crower is designed for high-performance street and strip applications, with a solid design and aggressive valve timing and lift. It is particularly well-suited for engines with high compression ratios.Crane Cams Fireball: The Fireball camshaft from Crane Cams is a high-performance solid design that is optimized for maximum power and torque output. It features aggressive valve timing and lift, and is ideal for racing and other extreme performance applications.

Best Budget Cams for 383 Stroker

If you're on a budget but still want to upgrade your 383 stroker engine with a new camshaft, there are several affordable options to consider. Here are some of the best budget cams for 383 stroker engines:Comp Cams XE262H: The XE262H camshaft from Comp Cams is a budget-friendly option that still delivers impressive performance gains. It features a hydraulic design with moderate valve timing and lift, and is ideal for street-driven engines.Lunati Bare Bones: The Bare Bones camshaft from Lunati is another affordable option that is designed for street-driven engines. It features a hydraulic design with mild valve timing and lift, and is easy to install and maintain.Crower Beast: The Beast camshaft from Crower is a solid design that offers excellent performance gains at an affordable price. It features aggressive valve timing and lift, and is ideal for engines with high compression ratios.Crane Cams Energizer: The Energizer camshaft from Crane Cams is a budget-friendly option that still delivers solid performance gains. It features a hydraulic design with moderate valve timing and lift, and is well-suited for street-driven engines.

Camshaft Duration and Lift for 383 Stroker

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a camshaft for your 383 stroker engine is its duration and lift. These two factors are closely related, and both have a significant impact on the engine's power and torque output.Duration: Camshaft duration refers to the amount of time that the engine's valves are open during each cycle. A longer duration allows more air and fuel to enter the engine, which can increase power and torque output. However, choosing a duration that is too long can result in poor idle quality and drivability issues.Lift: Camshaft lift refers to how far the engine's valves open during each cycle. A higher lift allows more air and fuel to enter the engine, which can also increase power and torque output. However, choosing a lift that is too high can result in valve-to-piston interference and other engine damage.When choosing a camshaft for your 383 stroker engine, it's important to find a balance between duration and lift that is optimized for your specific needs. A camshaft with too much duration or lift can lead to engine damage, while one that is too mild may not take full advantage of the engine's potential power output.

How to Install Camshafts for 383 Stroker

Installing a new camshaft in your 383 stroker engine can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done successfully. Here are the basic steps involved in installing a camshaft:Step 1: Remove the old camshaft and lifters from the engine. This involves removing the valve covers, rocker arms, pushrods, and timing chain cover.Step 2: Install the new camshaft and lifters, making sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for torque specifications and valve lash adjustments.Step 3: Reinstall the timing chain cover, rocker arms, pushrods, and valve covers.Step 4: Adjust the valve lash to the manufacturer's specifications, using a feeler gauge to ensure proper clearance between the valves and lifters.Step 5: Check the engine's timing and adjust as necessary to ensure proper ignition timing.It's important to take your time and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when installing a new camshaft in your 383 stroker engine. Improper installation can lead to poor performance, engine damage, and even safety hazards.

Camshaft Maintenance and Replacement for 383 Stroker

Once you've installed a new camshaft in your 383 stroker engine, it's important to properly maintain it to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips for maintaining your camshaft:Regular Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are critical for keeping your camshaft lubricated and free from debris. Be sure to use high-quality oil and change it at the recommended intervals.Camshaft Break-In: It's important to properly break in your new camshaft to ensure it wears evenly and lasts as long as possible. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for break-in procedures, which typically involve running the engine at varying RPM ranges for a set period of time.Valve Lash Adjustments: Regular valve lash adjustments are important for ensuring proper clearance between the valves and lifters. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for how often to perform these adjustments.Camshaft Replacement: If your camshaft becomes worn or damaged over time, it will need to be replaced. This typically involves removing the old camshaft and lifters and installing a new one, following the same steps as the initial installation.By properly maintaining your camshaft, you can help ensure that your 383 stroker engine performs at its best for years to come.

Enhancing Your 383 Stroker with the Best Camshaft

Choosing the right camshaft for your 383 stroker engine can have a significant impact on its performance and power output. By considering factors such as intended use, compression ratio, valve timing, LSA, and RPM range, you can choose a camshaft that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.Whether you're looking for a high-performance camshaft for racing or an affordable option for street driving, there are many great choices available from top brands like Comp Cams, Lunati, Crower, and Crane Cams. By installing and maintaining your camshaft properly, you can help ensure that your 383 stroker engine delivers the power and performance you need to dominate the road or track.

Best Cam for 383 Stroker: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The camshaft is an integral part of the engine that determines how much power and torque it can produce. For a 383 stroker engine, choosing the right camshaft is crucial to achieve the desired performance. In this guide, we will discuss the best camshafts for a 383 stroker engine, their pros and cons, and provide a comparison table.

The Best Camshafts for 383 Stroker Engine

1. Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE274H:

2. Lunati Voodoo 60103:

3. Crane Cams Energizer 284H:

Pros and Cons of Each Camshaft

Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE274H:

  • Pros:
    • Produces excellent low-end torque and mid-range power.
    • Provides excellent throttle response.
    • Has a smooth idle.
  • Cons:
    • Not recommended for high RPM applications.
    • May require upgraded valve springs.

Lunati Voodoo 60103:

  • Pros:
    • Offers excellent power gains across the entire RPM range.
    • Produces a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque.
    • Has a distinct lopey idle.
  • Cons:
    • Requires upgraded valve springs and rocker arms.
    • May require a higher stall converter for automatic transmissions.

Crane Cams Energizer 284H:

  • Pros:
    • Provides excellent low-end torque and mid-range power.
    • Has a smooth idle.
    • Offers good performance gains without requiring significant engine modifications.
  • Cons:
    • Not recommended for high RPM applications.
    • May require upgraded valve springs.

Comparison Table

Camshaft Advantages Disadvantages
Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE274H Smooth idle, excellent low-end torque and mid-range power, good throttle response Not suitable for high RPM applications, may require upgraded valve springs
Lunati Voodoo 60103 Excellent power gains across the entire RPM range, lopey idle Requires upgraded valve springs and rocker arms, may need higher stall converter for automatic transmissions
Crane Cams Energizer 284H Smooth idle, excellent low-end torque and mid-range power, good performance gains without requiring significant engine modifications Not suitable for high RPM applications, may require upgraded valve springs

Conclusion

Choosing the right camshaft for a 383 stroker engine is essential to achieve the desired performance. Each of the camshafts discussed above has its advantages and disadvantages, so you need to consider your driving needs and make an informed decision. With the information provided in this guide, you can now make an informed choice on the best cam for your 383 stroker engine.

The Best Cam for Your 383 Stroker: A Comprehensive Guide

Thank you for taking the time to read our article about the best cam for your 383 stroker engine. We hope that we were able to provide you with valuable information and insights into what camshaft options are available out there and how they can enhance the performance of your vehicle.

We understand that choosing the right camshaft can be a daunting task, especially if you don't have much knowledge or experience when it comes to engines and performance parts. That's why we wanted to break down the different types of cams and their respective pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

If you're looking to upgrade your 383 stroker engine, then an aftermarket camshaft is definitely worth considering. A camshaft is responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the engine's valves, which in turn affects the engine's power output and overall performance. By selecting the right camshaft for your engine, you can achieve greater horsepower, torque, and acceleration.

One of the main factors to consider when choosing a camshaft is its duration, which refers to how long the intake and exhaust valves stay open during each cycle. A longer duration means more air and fuel can enter the cylinders, resulting in higher performance but also potentially reducing low-end torque. On the other hand, a shorter duration can improve low-end torque but may sacrifice high-end horsepower.

Another key consideration is the camshaft's lift, which refers to how far the valves are lifted off their seats. A higher lift can allow more air and fuel to enter the cylinders, increasing power output, but may also require additional modifications to the engine to prevent valve float or other issues.

When it comes to selecting the best cam for your 383 stroker engine, there are several popular options to choose from. One of the most popular camshafts on the market is the COMP Cams XE274H, which offers an excellent balance of performance and drivability. This camshaft has a duration of 230/236 degrees and lift of .490/.490 inches, making it ideal for street and strip applications.

Another great option is the Lunati Voodoo 60103 camshaft, which has a duration of 262/268 degrees and lift of .542/.554 inches. This camshaft is designed for high-performance street and race applications and can provide a significant boost in horsepower and torque.

If you're looking for something more aggressive, then the Crane Cams Energizer 280H camshaft might be right up your alley. With a duration of 280/290 degrees and lift of .480/.488 inches, this camshaft is best suited for high-compression engines and can deliver a noticeable increase in power output.

Of course, these are just a few examples of the many camshafts available for your 383 stroker engine. Ultimately, the best camshaft for your specific needs will depend on your individual goals, budget, and driving style. We recommend consulting with an experienced engine builder or mechanic to help you choose the right camshaft for your vehicle.

Finally, we want to emphasize the importance of proper installation and tuning when upgrading your camshaft. Even the best camshaft in the world won't perform optimally if it's not installed correctly or tuned properly. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and enlist the help of a professional if you're not confident in your abilities.

Thank you again for reading our article about the best cam for your 383 stroker engine. We hope that we've been able to provide you with valuable insights and information to help you make a well-informed decision. Good luck with your upgrades, and happy driving!


People Also Ask About Best Cam for 383 Stroker

What is a 383 stroker?

A 383 stroker engine is a modified version of a typical Chevrolet 350 small block engine. The engine's stroke has been increased to 3.75 inches, resulting in a displacement of 383 cubic inches.

What kind of cam do I need for a 383 stroker?

The type of cam you need for a 383 stroker depends on your specific goals for the engine. For street use, a hydraulic roller cam with a duration between 220-230 degrees and lift around .550 is a good choice. For racing use, a solid roller cam with a duration between 240-260 degrees and lift around .650 is a better option.

What is the best cam for a 383 stroker?

There are many great cam options for a 383 stroker engine, but some of the most popular choices include:

  1. Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XR282HR
  2. Lunati Voodoo 60103LK
  3. Cam Motion Custom Grind
  4. Crane Cams PowerMax 234/244 Hydraulic Roller

Can I use a stock cam in a 383 stroker?

While it is possible to use a stock cam in a 383 stroker engine, it is not recommended. The increased displacement of the engine requires a camshaft with a longer duration and higher lift to fully take advantage of the increased airflow.

Do I need to upgrade my valve springs with a new cam?

Yes, it is recommended to upgrade your valve springs when installing a new camshaft. The increased lift and duration of the cam can cause the stock valve springs to become unstable and potentially fail, leading to engine damage.