The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Cam for Your 5.7 Hemi Challenger: Boosting Your Performance and Power
The 5.7L Hemi engine is a powerhouse lurking under the hood of the iconic Dodge Challenger. With its impressive power output, it's no wonder that car enthusiasts are always on the lookout for ways to upgrade their engines. One of the most popular upgrades is adding a performance camshaft, which can significantly increase horsepower and torque. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best cam for your 5.7 Hemi Challenger? In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top cams available and what makes them stand out from the rest.
First up is the Comp Cams XFI NSR camshaft, which boasts an aggressive profile that delivers maximum power gains across the entire RPM range. This cam is designed to work with both naturally aspirated and forced induction setups, making it a versatile option for any Challenger owner. With its high lift and duration, the XFI NSR cam is perfect for those looking to push the limits of their engine's performance.
If you're after a more traditional camshaft design, the Crane Cams H-272-2 might be just what you need. This cam offers a smooth idle and a broad power band, making it suitable for both street and track use. Its unique lobe design provides excellent valve train stability and durability, ensuring reliable performance for years to come.
For those who want the ultimate in high-performance cams, the Lunati Voodoo series is hard to beat. The Voodoo line features aggressive ramp rates and maximum lobe acceleration, delivering unmatched power gains at high RPMs. With its unique camshaft profile, the Voodoo is designed to provide maximum torque and horsepower, making it the ideal choice for serious racing applications.
Another great option is the COMP Cams Xtreme Energy series, which offers a balance of power and drivability. These cams are engineered to deliver excellent low-end torque while still providing significant gains in horsepower at higher RPMs. The Xtreme Energy cams are ideal for those who want a camshaft that can be used for both daily driving and weekend racing.
Of course, choosing the best cam for your 5.7 Hemi Challenger is not just about selecting the one with the highest power gains. You also need to consider factors such as valve train stability, idle quality, and fuel efficiency. That's why it's essential to do your research and choose a camshaft that is specifically designed for your engine and driving needs.
In addition to choosing the right camshaft, you'll also need to ensure that your engine is properly tuned to take advantage of the increased performance. This may require modifying your intake and exhaust system, upgrading your fuel injectors, and installing a custom tune. However, with the right combination of upgrades, you can unleash the full potential of your 5.7 Hemi Challenger and experience the thrill of true high-performance driving.
So there you have it – some of the best cams available for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger. Whether you're looking for maximum power gains or a balance of performance and drivability, there's a camshaft out there that's perfect for your needs. Just remember to do your research, choose a reputable manufacturer, and work with a qualified mechanic or tuner to get the most out of your engine upgrade.
Ultimately, upgrading your camshaft is one of the most effective ways to increase the performance of your 5.7 Hemi Challenger. With the right cam, you can unlock the full potential of your engine and experience the thrill of true high-performance driving. So why wait? Start exploring your options today and take your Challenger to the next level!
Introduction
The 5.7 Hemi engine is a powerful V8 engine that is used in the Dodge Challenger. Many car enthusiasts love this engine because of its impressive power and performance. One way to enhance the performance of the 5.7 Hemi engine is by installing a new camshaft. In this article, we will discuss some of the best cams for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger.
What is a Camshaft?
A camshaft is an essential part of an engine that controls the opening and closing of the valves. It determines how much air and fuel enter the engine and how much exhaust gas leaves the engine. A camshaft controls the intake and exhaust valves, which means that it plays a crucial role in determining the engine's power and performance.
Why Upgrade Your Camshaft?
Upgrading your camshaft can improve the performance of your 5.7 Hemi engine in several ways. First, it can increase horsepower and torque. Second, it can give your engine a more aggressive sound. Third, it can improve throttle response and acceleration. Finally, it can improve fuel economy by increasing efficiency.
Choosing the Right Camshaft
Choosing the right camshaft for your 5.7 Hemi engine is critical. There are many different types of camshafts available, and they all have different characteristics. Some cams are designed for high RPM performance, while others are designed for low-end torque. It's essential to choose a camshaft that matches your driving style and needs.
Duration and Lift
The two most critical factors to consider when choosing a camshaft are duration and lift. Duration refers to the amount of time the valves stay open, while lift refers to how far the valves open. A camshaft with more duration and lift will allow more air and fuel into the engine, resulting in more power.
Single Pattern or Dual Pattern
Another factor to consider is whether you want a single or dual pattern camshaft. A single pattern camshaft has the same intake and exhaust lobes, while a dual pattern camshaft has different intake and exhaust lobes. Dual pattern cams provide better airflow and performance but can be more challenging to install and tune.
Hydraulic or Solid
You also need to decide whether you want a hydraulic or solid camshaft. Hydraulic camshafts are quieter and easier to install, while solid camshafts provide more performance but are louder and require more maintenance.
Top Cams for 5.7 Hemi Challenger
1. Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H
The Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H is a popular choice for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger. It has a duration of 268/280, lift of .480/.483, and a lobe separation angle of 110 degrees. This camshaft provides excellent mid-range power and an aggressive exhaust note.
2. Crane Cams Energizer
The Crane Cams Energizer is another great option for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger. It has a duration of 260/272, lift of .462/.482, and a lobe separation angle of 112 degrees. This camshaft provides excellent low-end torque and improved throttle response.
3. Lunati Voodoo
The Lunati Voodoo is a high-performance camshaft that is perfect for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger. It has a duration of 262/268, lift of .500/.500, and a lobe separation angle of 110 degrees. This camshaft provides excellent top-end power and an aggressive exhaust note.
4. Edelbrock Performer RPM
The Edelbrock Performer RPM is a performance camshaft that is ideal for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger. It has a duration of 234/244, lift of .539/.548, and a lobe separation angle of 112 degrees. This camshaft provides excellent mid-range power and improved throttle response.
5. COMP Cams Thumpr
The COMP Cams Thumpr is a high-performance camshaft that is perfect for those who want an aggressive exhaust note. It has a duration of 227/241, lift of .525/.525, and a lobe separation angle of 107 degrees. This camshaft provides excellent low-end power and an aggressive exhaust note.
Conclusion
Upgrading your camshaft is an excellent way to improve the performance of your 5.7 Hemi Challenger. There are many different types of camshafts available, and it's essential to choose one that matches your driving style and needs. The Comp Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H, Crane Cams Energizer, Lunati Voodoo, Edelbrock Performer RPM, and COMP Cams Thumpr are some of the best cams for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger. Choose wisely and enjoy the extra power and performance!
Introduction to the 5.7 Hemi ChallengerThe 5.7 Hemi Challenger is a powerful muscle car that packs a punch under the hood. It's a perfect choice for car enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of driving a high-performance vehicle. This car is known for its impressive horsepower and torque, which makes it an ideal candidate for upgrades and modifications.One of the most popular upgrades for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger is the camshaft. A camshaft is a crucial component of an engine that controls the intake and exhaust valves. Upgrading the camshaft in your 5.7 Hemi Challenger can significantly improve its performance, but choosing the right camshaft can be challenging. In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about choosing the best camshaft for your 5.7 Hemi Challenger.Understanding Camshafts and their ImportanceBefore we dive into the factors to consider when choosing a camshaft, let's first understand what a camshaft is and why it's essential. A camshaft is a rotating shaft that operates the engine's valves through a series of cams. The camshaft's profile determines the timing and duration of the valve opening and closing, affecting the engine's overall performance.Upgrading your 5.7 Hemi Challenger's camshaft can lead to significant improvements in horsepower, torque, and overall performance. However, choosing the wrong camshaft can have adverse effects on the engine, resulting in reduced power, poor fuel economy, and even damage to the engine. Therefore, it's essential to consider several factors before selecting a camshaft for your 5.7 Hemi Challenger.Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cam for your 5.7 Hemi Challenger1. Intended UseThe intended use of your 5.7 Hemi Challenger should be the primary factor when selecting a camshaft. Will you be using your car for daily driving, racing, or both? Choosing a camshaft that's too aggressive for daily driving can result in poor fuel economy and reduced drivability. On the other hand, choosing a mild camshaft for racing can result in underwhelming performance.2. Lift and DurationThe camshaft's lift and duration determine the valve opening and closing events. Higher lift and longer duration result in increased airflow, leading to improved horsepower and torque. However, too much lift and duration can cause valve float, leading to engine damage. Therefore, it's essential to choose a camshaft that matches your engine's characteristics and power goals.3. Valve SpringsUpgrading your camshaft requires upgrading your valve springs as well. The valve springs keep the valves closed when the camshaft is not pushing them open. Upgraded valve springs can handle the increased lift and duration of an upgraded camshaft. Failure to upgrade your valve springs can result in valve float, leading to engine damage.4. Engine Compression RatioThe engine's compression ratio determines the amount of air and fuel mixture that enters the combustion chamber. High compression ratios require camshafts with higher lift and duration to maximize performance. On the other hand, low compression ratios require milder camshafts to prevent engine damage.5. TuningUpgrading your camshaft requires tuning your engine's computer to optimize performance. It's essential to choose a camshaft that's compatible with your vehicle's computer system. Failure to do so can result in poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and engine damage.Top Cam Brands for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger1. COMP CamsCOMP Cams is one of the most popular camshaft brands among car enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of camshafts, including mild, aggressive, and high-performance options. Their camshafts are designed to provide improved horsepower and torque, making them an ideal choice for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger.2. LunatiLunati is another popular camshaft brand that offers high-quality camshafts for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger. Their camshafts are designed to provide maximum power and torque, making them an ideal choice for racing enthusiasts.3. Crane CamsCrane Cams is a well-known camshaft brand that offers a wide range of camshafts for different engine types, including the 5.7 Hemi Challenger. Their camshafts are designed to provide improved performance and drivability, making them an ideal choice for daily drivers.Best Budget Cam for the 5.7 Hemi ChallengerThe best budget camshaft for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger is the COMP Cams XFI 260. This camshaft provides a mild performance upgrade, making it suitable for daily driving. It's also affordable, making it an ideal choice for car enthusiasts on a budget.Best High-Performance Cam for the 5.7 Hemi ChallengerThe best high-performance camshaft for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger is the Lunati Voodoo 227/233. This camshaft provides aggressive performance upgrades, making it an ideal choice for racing enthusiasts. It's designed to provide maximum power and torque, making it perfect for drag racing and other high-performance applications.Best Cam for Improved Torque in the 5.7 Hemi ChallengerThe best camshaft for improved torque in the 5.7 Hemi Challenger is the Crane Cams Energizer 272H. This camshaft provides improved low-end torque, making it an ideal choice for street driving. It's designed to provide improved performance and drivability, making it perfect for daily drivers.Best Cam for Improved Horsepower in the 5.7 Hemi ChallengerThe best camshaft for improved horsepower in the 5.7 Hemi Challenger is the COMP Cams XFI NSR 219/223. This camshaft provides improved horsepower in the mid-to-upper rpm range, making it an ideal choice for racing enthusiasts. It's designed to provide maximum power and torque, making it perfect for drag racing and other high-performance applications.How to Install a Camshaft in a 5.7 Hemi ChallengerInstalling a camshaft in a 5.7 Hemi Challenger requires advanced mechanical knowledge and experience. Therefore, it's recommended to have a professional mechanic perform the installation. However, here are the basic steps involved in installing a camshaft:1. Remove the valve covers, rocker arms, and pushrods.2. Remove the timing chain cover and timing chain.3. Remove the camshaft and lifters.4. Clean the engine block and install the new camshaft and lifters.5. Install the timing chain and timing chain cover.6. Reinstall the pushrods, rocker arms, and valve covers.7. Adjust the valve lash and install the new valve springs (if necessary).8. Tune the engine's computer to optimize performance.Tips for Maintaining your Camshaft in a 5.7 Hemi ChallengerMaintaining your camshaft is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips for maintaining your camshaft in a 5.7 Hemi Challenger:1. Change your oil regularly to prevent dirt and debris from damaging your camshaft.2. Use high-quality oil and oil filters to ensure proper lubrication and filtration.3. Avoid excessive idling, as it can cause oil starvation and damage your camshaft.4. Check your valve lash and adjust it as necessary to prevent valve float.5. Monitor your engine's performance regularly and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.ConclusionUpgrading your camshaft is an excellent way to improve your 5.7 Hemi Challenger's performance and experience the thrill of driving a high-performance vehicle. However, it's crucial to choose the right camshaft for your vehicle and intended use. Consider the factors discussed in this article and consult with a professional mechanic before making any modifications to your vehicle. With the right camshaft and proper maintenance, you can enjoy the full potential of your 5.7 Hemi Challenger.
Best Cam for 5.7 Hemi Challenger: A Point of View
Introduction
The 5.7L Hemi engine has been a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts since its introduction in the early 2000s. However, to achieve maximum performance from this engine, upgrading the camshaft is necessary. In this article, we will discuss the best cam for 5.7 Hemi Challenger, its pros and cons, and provide a comparison table.The Best Cam for 5.7 Hemi Challenger
After thorough research and analysis, the COMP Cams 112-500-11 XFI Camshaft is considered the best cam for 5.7 Hemi Challenger. This camshaft provides a significant increase in power and torque, making it an ideal choice for performance enthusiasts.Pros of COMP Cams 112-500-11 XFI Camshaft
- Provides a significant increase in power and torque
- Improves throttle response
- Works well with stock valve springs and lifters
- Maintains good drivability
Cons of COMP Cams 112-500-11 XFI Camshaft
- Requires professional installation
- May require additional modifications for optimal performance
- Produces a noticeable idle sound
Comparison Table
| Camshaft | Power Increase | Torque Increase | Throttle Response | Drivability | Installation Difficulty | Idle Sound |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COMP Cams 112-500-11 XFI Camshaft | 20-30 horsepower increase | 25-35 lb-ft torque increase | Improved | Maintains good drivability | Professional installation required | Produces a noticeable idle sound |
| Lunati Voodoo 10120703LK Camshaft | 15-20 horsepower increase | 25-30 lb-ft torque increase | Improved | Maintains good drivability | Professional installation required | Produces a noticeable idle sound |
| Comp Cams 201-428-17 Camshaft | 15-20 horsepower increase | 20-25 lb-ft torque increase | Improved | Maintains good drivability | Professional installation required | Produces a noticeable idle sound |
In conclusion, upgrading the camshaft is necessary to achieve maximum performance from the 5.7L Hemi engine in the Challenger. The COMP Cams 112-500-11 XFI Camshaft is considered the best choice for its significant power and torque increase, improved throttle response, and good drivability. However, it does require professional installation and may produce a noticeable idle sound. Other popular choices, such as the Lunati Voodoo 10120703LK Camshaft and Comp Cams 201-428-17 Camshaft, offer similar increases in power and torque but also require professional installation and produce a noticeable idle sound.
The Best Cam for 5.7 Hemi Challenger: Closing Message for Blog Visitors
Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide on the best cam for a 5.7 Hemi Challenger. We hope that this article has provided you with everything you need to know about upgrading your engine's performance and achieving the horsepower and torque gains that you desire.
As we mentioned in the introduction, choosing the right camshaft can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the world of performance modifications. But by understanding the key factors that influence cam selection and taking into account your unique driving needs and budget, you'll be able to make an informed decision that will yield impressive results on the track or street.
We covered a lot of ground in this article, from the basics of camshaft design and terminology to the top-rated cams on the market for 5.7 Hemi Challengers. We also discussed the importance of pairing your camshaft with the right supporting modifications, such as exhaust systems, intake manifolds, and tuning software, to optimize your engine's performance.
One of the key takeaways from this guide is that there is no one-size-fits-all camshaft for every 5.7 Hemi Challenger owner. The best cam for you will depend on a variety of factors, including your driving style, your goals for your car, and your budget.
Another important consideration is the level of expertise required to install a camshaft. While some camshafts can be installed by DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical skills and tools, others require professional installation and tuning to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable performance shops and mechanics who specialize in camshaft installations for 5.7 Hemi Challengers. By doing your research and choosing a trusted professional, you can rest assured that your engine will be in good hands and that you'll get the most out of your new camshaft.
When it comes to selecting a camshaft, there are several key factors to consider. These include the duration and lift of the camshaft, as well as the lobe separation angle, which determines how much overlap there is between the exhaust and intake valves. Other important considerations include the valve springs, pushrods, and rocker arms, which all play a critical role in camshaft performance.
If you're looking for a camshaft that delivers a balance of power and drivability, we highly recommend the COMP Cams Xtreme Energy XE268H camshaft. This camshaft is designed to deliver excellent low-end torque and mid-range power, making it ideal for street and strip applications. It also features a mild idle and excellent vacuum, making it a great choice for daily drivers.
If you're looking for maximum top-end power and a more aggressive exhaust note, the Lunati Voodoo 10120702 camshaft is a great choice. This camshaft is designed to provide a significant increase in horsepower and torque at higher RPMs, making it ideal for drag racing and high-performance street use. It also features a noticeable lope at idle and a deep exhaust note that is sure to turn heads.
Ultimately, the best camshaft for your 5.7 Hemi Challenger will depend on your unique driving needs and budget. But by taking the time to research and compare your options, you can make an informed decision that will yield impressive results on the road or track.
We hope that this guide has been helpful in your search for the best cam for your 5.7 Hemi Challenger. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. And as always, happy driving!
People Also Ask About Best Cam for 5.7 Hemi Challenger
What is a camshaft?
A camshaft is a rotating cylindrical shaft that controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves. It is responsible for regulating the amount of air and fuel that enters the engine and the amount of exhaust gas that leaves it.
What is the best cam for a 5.7 Hemi Challenger?
There are several factors to consider when choosing a camshaft for your 5.7 Hemi Challenger, such as your driving style, vehicle modifications, and performance goals. However, some popular options include:
- Comp Cams XFI VSR: This camshaft is designed for high-performance street and strip applications and offers aggressive lope, increased power, and improved throttle response.
- Lunati Voodoo: This camshaft is ideal for daily drivers who want increased power and a noticeable idle sound. It offers a strong mid-range powerband and works well with stock or modified engines.
- Brian Tooley Racing BTR Stage 1: This camshaft is designed for maximum performance gains and is best suited for heavily modified engines. It offers a broad powerband, increased horsepower and torque, and a choppy idle sound.
Do I need to upgrade other parts if I install a new camshaft?
Yes, installing a new camshaft can affect other engine components and may require additional upgrades. For example, you may need to upgrade your valve springs, pushrods, lifters, and rocker arms to ensure proper valve train operation and prevent engine damage. It is best to consult with a professional mechanic or performance shop before installing a new camshaft.