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I'll just list the Pros and Cons of what _I_ see of the roller cams. I would like to get some different opinions from folks on the subject.
Pros:
Cons:
I think 90% of the Buick community doesn't care about high RPM and aggressive ramping. Unless I am missing some benefits of running a $1200 cam in a Buick motor, I just don't get it. Sure, I have one only because my past engine builder stated the only way he would warranty the motor is if he installed a roller cam in place of a flat tappet for concerns of wiping a lope. I bought it and frankly don't think I even need it. It seems the further from stock configuration, the more hassle these engines become.
What's the difference in running a 210/210 flat tappet vs. a 210/210 billet roller, besides the extra $1000 I'll have left over?
Looking for some serious answers. Educate me please! powersix
<small>[ August 11, 2003, 10:36 PM: Message edited by: Orlando_87GN ]</small>
Pros:
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Can run aggressive ramps due to roller lifter being smaller in the bottom compared to a conventional lifter
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">High RPM friendly
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Looks pretty
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Bragging rights
Cons:
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Expensive! ~$1200 for a billet kit
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Must use roller chain that typically stretches
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Can't use GM tensioner
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Must use different pushrods
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Must use heavy valve springs
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Must use odd fire torrington bearing setup on the nose (pita)
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Must use shims under cam button (one more clearance to get wrong)
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Heavier rotating mass in engine due to heavier lifters, longer pushrods
- <font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">More stress on rocker shafts due to high spring rates
I think 90% of the Buick community doesn't care about high RPM and aggressive ramping. Unless I am missing some benefits of running a $1200 cam in a Buick motor, I just don't get it. Sure, I have one only because my past engine builder stated the only way he would warranty the motor is if he installed a roller cam in place of a flat tappet for concerns of wiping a lope. I bought it and frankly don't think I even need it. It seems the further from stock configuration, the more hassle these engines become.
What's the difference in running a 210/210 flat tappet vs. a 210/210 billet roller, besides the extra $1000 I'll have left over?
Looking for some serious answers. Educate me please! powersix
<small>[ August 11, 2003, 10:36 PM: Message edited by: Orlando_87GN ]</small>