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Re: 454 Camshaft Choice? Decisions Decisions!
If the engine is totally stock, there are several things you can do to increase power and mileage, whereas all a bigger cam will do in a stock engine is suck more gas and reduce vacuum. That said, some of the newer cams, like a mild Lunati Voodoo, can increase torque and horsepower with no ill side effects. But you will need to start with the items below.
2.5" low restriction dual exhaust
properly operating heat riser valve, if equipped
optimum ignition timing curve
ensure any emission control systems are operating correctly
Maybe a 570-670 CFM Holley or 600-650 Edelbrock carb on a modern Weiand or Edelbrock dual plane intake manifold. (Unless your carb is a Q-jet in good shape.)
And this isn't 100% necessary, but you might want to do a little cylinder head work -- 3-angle valve job, heads surfaced to bump compression a little, and new stock replacement valve springs, or perhaps one step up from stock.
Have fun.
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Mike
1969 C10 LWB -- owned for 36 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, 1st Gen Vintage Air, recent AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes.
1982 C10 SWB -- converted from 250-six to roller cam 350, Vortec heads -- sold
1981 C10 Silverado LWB, 305, TH350C -- sold, but wish I still had it!
1969 C10 (not the current one) that I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming.
Retired as a factory automation products salesman.
Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop.
Member here for 24 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then!
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