The camshaft is essential in ensuring that a car runs smoothly. While the engine is a key aspect, without the camshaft rotating and providing a consistent amount of energy, the engine cannot work as it should. As a result, you want to ensure you are using the best camshaft for your 350 Chevy.
In this article, we will be focusing on two main competitors – Comp Cams, and Melling. They are trusted brands that can be relied upon. While Comp Cams is the most popular choice, Melling is not far behind.
We will be focusing on which is the best option, looking at aspects such as lobe separation, and valve lift.
Key Criteria – How We Tested And Compared These Products
When it came to testing these four products, there were a handful of key criteria we used. These criteria were critical in the testing and comparison process we have carried out.
RPM Range
RPM range is important because the camshaft relies on the engine. The camshaft works with the engine to ensure that it runs smoothly.
The RPM needs to line up with the amount of cams the camshaft provides. All the camshafts listed work within this range, and are suitable for this vehicle.
Valve Lift
The flat tappet cams need to consistently rotate in order for the engine valves to open. Without these valves opening, the engine cannot operate as it should.
The four camshafts we test work perfectly with the 350 Chevy engine, and allow the valves to open smoothly with no issues.
Compression Losses
A camshaft should not provide any compression losses as these have a negative impact on the engine. These compression losses mean that leaks are caused, which then interferes with the ratio of air to fuel within the engine.
These four options did not provide any compression losses, which is a positive result. The cams all closed quickly, without bouncing, and had a long exhaust duration.
Price
If you are shopping on a budget, then the Melling camshaft is the best option for you. However, if you do not have a specific budget in mind, the Comp Cams are the best option.
While less expensive camshafts do tend to have a lower RPM operating range, the overall performance and output will still be similar to the more expensive options.
Performance
Different camshafts will offer different kinds of performance. While some provide a good boost and a mid-level RPM, others provide high operating ranges, and performance.
On the whole, a camshaft that provides the highest performance is the better option. This is because it will work better with the engine, and other components such as the carburetor and muffler. However, even camshafts with lower performances are great options.
Compatibility
All four options are compatible with 350 Chevy. We tested the compatibility by measuring the engine’s size, and researching all the relevant engine information.
Lobe Separation Angle
This is important as you will want to ensure that the lobe separation angle is correct and coincides with the engine. It is what will determine how long it takes the camshafts to move, and if they are in sync with each other.
When we tested the cam lobe separation angle of these four options, they were all engaged and at a good angle. None of them were out of sync, and while some were higher than others, they were all a good amount.
Top 4 Best Camshaft For 350 Chevy in 2021
| Image | Model | Speciality | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
  |
COMP Cams 54-470-11 LSR Rectangular Port 235/251 Hydraulic Roller Cam for GM LS GEN III/IV | Best Overall | Check on Amazon |
  |
COMP Cams CL12-600-4 Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Chevrolet Small Block | Runner's Up | Check on Amazon |
  |
COMP Cams 12-602-4 Big Mutha' Thumpr 243/257 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Chevrolet Small Block | Best Value For The Money | Check on Amazon |
  |
SB Chevy 283 327 350 400 Hi-Perf RV Cam & Lifter Kit .480/.480 Lift - 282 Duration | Most Versatile | Check on Amazon |
Here are our 4 chosen choices for the best camshaft for 350 Chevy:
1. Best Camshaft For 350 Chevy Overall – COMP Cams 54-470-11 LSR Rectangular Port 235/251 Hydraulic Roller Cam for GM LS GEN III/
Criteria for comparison
– The RPM range is very strong, and ranges from high-end to mid-range torque. It works within the correct RPM range needed. The horsepower provided is impressive, and the overall performance was great.
– The valve lift of this cam is perfect for the 350 Chevy.
– This camshaft does have the highest price of all the products featured. However, this does reflect the quality of the camshaft.
– The lobe separation angle of this engine is 113 degrees. This is a good amount that allows you to have the highest amount of power. The centrifugal blower has an intake duration of 235, and the exhaust duration was 251.
Company Background
Competition Cams is an automotive parts company that was originally founded in 1976. It started by selling valve train components in 1977. They have been a popular company over the last 35 years, and their mission remains the same – to produce the best and highest performing components as possible.
Over the last few years, Competition Cams has remained a popular choice for purchasing automotive parts. They are a reputable company that has strong foundations and continues to develop their products to ensure they are the best possible.
Why is this the best camshaft for 350 Chevy overall?
The COMP Cams 54-470-11 LSR Rectangular Port 235/251 Hydraulic Roller is the best camshaft for 350 Chevy overall because it performed the best when tested.
The lobe separation it provides is fantastic, and allows the engine to perform in the upper rev range. 113 degrees is a great amount, especially if you are looking for increased horsepower and torque. The separation of the intake and the exhaust is impressive.
It uses its superior cylinder to its advantage, and this helps to ensure that the airflow between cams remains strong and stable. It has an operating range of around 2200 – 2700 RPM, which is fantastic. It boasts a simple 3-bot configuration which makes it easy to install.
How has this product evolved over time?
When looking at the different camshafts available with Comp Cams, there are many options to choose from. As this is created for specific engines, there is no real downgrade of upgrade.
Changes from previous models?
There is the option to purchase a 6.207.4L if you have a larger engine. You can also purchase this product with slightly different RPM ranges, which will change the performance of the engine.
Experience of Using COMP Cams 54-470-11 LSR Rectangular Port 235/251 Hydraulic Roller Cam for GM LS GEN III/
It was easy to install, and it performed well. We could clearly see a difference in the torque and horsepower when the cams were engaged. It increased the engine’s power significantly.
It certainly allowed the engine to be seamless and have stronger performance. When testing the specifications, our experience was positive, and the cams performed as well as stated.
Pros- A powerful camshaft that improves torque and horsepower
- It has a great lobe separation angle
- Its simple 3-bot configuration ensures that it is easy to use and install
- It may not be the best option if you are not looking for a camshaft with very high power.
Does the company deliver on the key criteria it promises?
Yes, they do deliver on the key criteria that it promises. This camshaft is both powerful and seamless. It is well made, long lasting, and does provide a great performance as stated. The specifications were accurate and reliable when put to the test.
2. Runner’s Up – COMP Cams CL12-600-4 Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Chevrolet Small Block
Criteria for comparison
– This model has a particularly high RPM range and is the perfect option for those looking for a very high torque and horsepower, without the high price that comes with this.
– The lobe separation angle is great, and the valve lift is reasonably good. The performance provided is impressive, and allows the gear changes to be smooth and seamless.
Company Background
One of the most popular companies to produce camshafts is Comp Cams. This is another camshaft created by Camshaft.
While we have already covered their history, they were founded in 1976, and are a reputable company when it comes to automotive parts.
Why is this the runner-up for 350 Chevy?
This camshaft is the runner-up for 350 Chevy because it provides a high performance. If you are looking for a powerful thumpr, this is the perfect option. It operates between 2,000, and 5,800 which is noticeable when engaged.
It has a good lobe separation angle which improves the air flow to the engine and increases the horsepower and torque. It can be used on both regular models and modifies Chevy’s.
It is mid-range in its price and is not overly expensive. As it comes with the lifter kit, you do not need to worry about purchasing this separately.
How has this product evolved over time?
As this is created specifically for 350 Chevy, the product has not evolved overly over time, as it has very specific features.
Changes from previous models?
There are no previous models for this camshaft because it is made specifically for the 350 Chevy. However, there are different RPM ranges that can be purchased.
Experience of Using COMP Cams 54-470-11 LSR Rectangular Port 235/251 Hydraulic Roller Cam for GM LS GEN III/
Our overall experience was positive. As it comes with the lift kit, this ensures the installation is easy. Once installed, we could clearly notice the increase in the horsepower, torque and performance.
Given that it is not an overly expensive camshaft, it had an impressive performance. Its valve lift measurements were accurate, and the difference was noticeable as soon as the engine was turned on and engaged.
Pros- It provides a powerful performance overall and an increase in horsepower
- It comes with a lift kit for easy installation
- It is compatible with modified 350 Chevy
- As it is powerful, it is not the best option if you are looking for a lower horsepower and performance
Does the company deliver on the key criteria it promises?
Yes, this camshaft delivered as promised. It provided a more powerful engine and a smooth transition between gears. The intake valve opened quickly and stayed open for a good amount of time. It was compatible like stated, and we were able to use this camshaft on a modified 350 Chevy too.
3. Best Value For The Money – COMP Cams 12-602-4 Big Mutha’ Thumpr 243/257 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Chevrolet Small Block
Criteria for comparison
– The RPM range of this camshaft reaches up to 6400 RPM which is impressive and greatly improves the power of the engine and its performance.
– It is far more affordable in comparison to a lot of camshafts, and it is compatible with the 350 Chevy.
– the lobe separation angle is 107 degrees, and there were no compression losses noted. The valve lift is good.
Company Background
Again, this is another camshaft that has been greeted by Comp Cams. As we have already discussed, they are a fantastic company that focuses on providing the best possible automotive products. They are particularly reputable and reliable.
Why is this the best value for 350 Chevy overall?
This is the best value for money because it features many aspects that a more expensive camshaft would have, but at a fraction of the cost. The quality of the materials used are reliable.
When looking at the specifications such as the RPM range, lobe separation, and horsepower provided, it can compete with more expensive options. It works with street stock converters.
How has this product evolved over time?
As this is created specifically for the 350 Chevy it has not evolved over time, though you can see much thought and consideration was taken when creating this product. It is available in varying RPM ranges.
Changes from previous models?
While there are not any previous models, the RPM ranges do vary within this range. In addition to this, it can be purchased with a lifter kit too.
Experience of Using COMP Cams 54-470-11 LSR Rectangular Port 235/251 Hydraulic Roller Cam for GM LS GEN III/
Our experience was positive. There was no incomplete combustion formed in the engine thanks to its high compression ratio. The lobe separation of 107 degrees was a good amount. It provided enough room for fuel intake, and it extended the duration of the exhaust.
We could certainly see an increase in the torque curve, and the horsepower provided was impressive. Given this is a lower budget option, it did perform this way when we used it.
Pros- It greatly improved the torque curve and horsepower
- The lobe separation was great for fuel intake
- It works with street stock converters
- Not the best option if you are looking for lower horsepower
Does the company deliver on the key criteria it promises?
Yes, this camshaft delivers on all the expected criteria. We were impressed by its performance, especially when you take into consideration how inexpensive it is on the whole. The horsepower increased, and it does improve the function of the engine.
4. Most Versatile – SB Chevy 283 327 350 400 Hi-Perf RV Cam & Lifter Kit .480/.480 Lift – 282 Duration
Criteria for comparison
– The RPM Range of this Camshaft is large, and it has a reasonable valve lift.
– It is one of the more affordable options featured, and it provides an impressive performance when taking this into consideration.
– The Lobe Separation Angle is enough to provide a good space for fuel intake
Company Background
When it comes to automotive parts, Melling is one of the most popular companies. They were founded in 1946, and have 11 different manufacturing operations across the world. They are a leading company in some areas of car manufacturing, and are well trusted and reliable.
Their parts are held in a high esteem by many and since their founding they have continued to grow and produce high quality car components.
Why is this the most versatile camshaft for 350 Chevy overall?
This is the most versatile camshaft for 350 Chevy overall because it can provide both a high and mid-range performance. It operates from 2000 to 6500 RPM overall, which is a great range. It impacts the power curve which leads to an improved engine performance.
It comes with the lifters which ensures that the camshaft can be installed easily with little to no issues. The 282 degree lobes ensure that the engine receives sufficient air, and the power curve provided is fantastic.
How has this product evolved over time?
This product is specific to this car engine. Given this, it has not really evolved over time, though it is suitable for use with v8 engines.
Changes from previous models?
While there are no changes from previous models, there are different versions of this kit available for different engine requirements.
Experience of Using SB Chevy 283 327 350 400 Hi-Perf RV Cam & Lifter Kit .480/.480 Lift – 282 Duration
Our overall experience was positive. This camshaft was easy to install and greatly improved the performance of the engine. As it can range from mid to high in the power provided, it is a great option for someone looking for fewer horsepower. Even so, the performance provided was great.
The lobe angle was one of the best featured, and we loved how versatile this camshaft was. It provided an optimum performance, and is ideal for 2000+ converter and gears.
Pros– Great if you are looking for camshafts that do not provide too much power
– Impressive Lobe angle degrees
– Improves the power curve and engine performance
– It is not the most powerful camshaft featured
Does the company deliver on the key criteria it promises?
Yes, the company does deliver on the key criteria it promises. This camshaft is both easy to install and versatile to use. It is durable, long lasting and provides a fantastic performance. It has a good operating range, and allows the engine to run smoothly, which is great, especially when you take into consideration how inexpensive it is.
FAQs About Camshaft For 350 Chevy
How will a camshaft improve my car?
A camshaft will improve the throttle response and the torque curve. It helps to increase the amount of horsepower the engine has and improve the overall performance.
It also helps the engine to be more economical, and helps to reduce gas consumption. It does however increase the sound of the car’s engine, which is not ideal for some people.
However, given that it greatly improves the life of an engine, and its durability, we think that they are certainly worth purchasing.
What is an “over-cammed” car?
An over-cammed car occurs when the valves leading to the car’s engine have been open too wide and for too long. If there is not a good supporting level of compression to accompany this, it causes issues with the engine and its performance.
You can help to prevent this by replacing your car’s camshafts and improving them. You should always ensure you are choosing the correct camshafts for your engine when doing this.
What is the biggest cam for stock 350?
Currently, the biggest cam for stock 350 is the COMP Cams CL12-600-4 Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam. While it was not our top choice, it was a close second. This is because it is a great option overall. However, it does produce quite a loud sound which may not be appealing to everyone.
What is the best sounding cam for the stock?
There is not a specific answer to this as this is based on personal preferences. However, if you are looking for a louder option, you may want to choose the COMP Cams CL12-600-4 Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam.
