Can you daily drive a cammed car? It’s a question that many car enthusiasts have asked themselves. After all, there’s nothing quite like the roar of a cammed engine, the adrenaline rush of hitting the gas pedal, and the feeling of being one with your machine. But can you really drive a car like this every day? Let’s take a closer look.
First things first, what does “cammed” actually mean? In short, “cammed” refers to a Camshaft, which is a component in the engine that controls the opening and closing of the valves. A cammed engine has a specialized camshaft that’s been designed to give the car more power, torque, and a unique sound. However, the downside to this is that it can make the car harder to drive on the street, due to the increased vibration, lower idle speed, and louder noise.
So, is it possible to daily drive a cammed car? The answer is yes, but it depends on your priorities. If you’re someone who values comfort, ease of use, and convenience, then a cammed car might not be the best choice for you. However, if you’re someone who loves the thrill of the ride, doesn’t mind a bit of extra noise and vibration, and wants a one-of-a-kind driving experience, then a cammed car could be the perfect fit. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding the right balance between your needs and your desires, and deciding what matters most to you.
Benefits and drawbacks of driving a cammed car
When it comes to modifying a car, one of the most popular changes is adding a performance camshaft. A camshaft is responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the engine’s valves, and a performance camshaft is designed to increase the power output of the engine. While having a cammed car can be an exhilarating experience, there are both benefits and drawbacks to driving one on a daily basis.
Benefits
- Increased horsepower: One of the most significant benefits of driving a cammed car is the increase in horsepower. A performance camshaft can significantly improve the engine’s power output, giving you a much more thrilling driving experience.
- Improved throttle response: Along with the increase in horsepower comes improved throttle response. The car will be more responsive to your inputs, making it feel much more alive and engaging to drive.
- Unique sound: A performance camshaft will also change the exhaust note of your vehicle. It will give the car a distinct, aggressive sound that is sure to turn heads and make you feel like a true driving enthusiast.
Drawbacks
While driving a cammed car can be a lot of fun, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- Increased wear and tear: Upgrading to a performance camshaft can put additional stress on the engine’s valvetrain, leading to increased wear and tear. This can result in the need for more frequent maintenance and repairs.
- Poor drivability: A performance camshaft can be designed for high-rpm power, which can result in poor drivability at lower speeds. It may be difficult to drive the car smoothly in traffic or around town.
- Loud and obnoxious: While cammed cars have a unique sound, they can also be considered loud and obnoxious to some people. If you live in a quiet neighborhood or have close neighbors, you may find that the car’s exhaust note is too much for them to handle.
Conclusion
Driving a cammed car can be a thrilling experience, but it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before deciding to modify your vehicle. If you’re willing to deal with the increased maintenance and potentially poor drivability, a cammed car can be an incredibly rewarding addition to your daily driver.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Increased horsepower | Increased wear and tear |
| Improved throttle response | Poor drivability |
| Unique sound | Loud and obnoxious |
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether the benefits of driving a cammed car outweigh the potential drawbacks. Just make sure to do your research, and always keep safety in mind when making modifications to your vehicle.
Proper maintenance for daily driving a cammed car
Camshafts are essential components of the engine system that allow the engine to breathe efficiently. However, the added performance of a cammed car requires proper maintenance to ensure the engine runs smoothly and reliably. Here are some tips for maintaining a cammed car for daily driving:
- Regular Oil Changes: Camshafts require proper lubrication to function effectively. It’s essential to use high-quality oil that meets the manufacturer’s specifications and change it regularly at recommended intervals.
- Camshaft Break-In: After installing a new cam, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s break-in procedure to ensure the camshaft seats properly. Failure to do so can result in premature wear and damage to the engine.
- Valve Lash Adjustment: Camshafts can cause the valve train to experience additional stress, resulting in more frequent valve adjustment. It’s essential to check the valve lash regularly and adjust as necessary to maintain peak performance and prevent engine damage.
Tuning and Electronics
Camshafts can affect the engine’s air/fuel ratios, making proper tuning necessary for optimal performance and reliability. The following are essential electronic components for ensuring your cammed car runs correctly:
- Engine Management System: A quality engine management system is required to compensate for the increased airflow and cam profile. An aftermarket ECU or tuning software can provide the necessary control to maximize performance and reliability.
- Mass Airflow Sensor: The Mass Airflow Sensor plays a critical role in reading the engine’s airflow and ensuring proper fueling. A properly calibrated Mass Airflow Sensor is essential for a cammed car to run smoothly.
- Camshaft Position Sensor: The Camshaft Position Sensor allows the engine management system to adjust the cam timing accurately. A faulty or poorly calibrated CPS can cause the engine to run poorly or fail to start altogether.
Valvetrain Maintenance
Camshafts can place additional stress on the engine’s valvetrain, resulting in more frequent inspection and maintenance. Here are some tips for keeping your car’s valvetrain healthy:
Replace worn or damaged valve springs and retainers with high-quality aftermarket parts specifically designed for performance use. The following table summarizes the critical components of the valvetrain to check when driving a cammed car daily:
| Component | When to Check | Recommended Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Valve Springs | Every 20,000 miles | High-quality performance springs |
| Retainers | Every 20,000 miles | Lightweight titanium retainers |
| Lifters | Every 50,000 miles | Performance lifters |
Proper maintenance of a cammed car is key to ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the engine. By following the tips listed above, you can daily drive your cammed car with confidence.
Modifications to Consider for Improving Daily Driveability of a Cammed Car
Camshaft upgrades are a popular modification for increasing horsepower and torque in sports cars. However, the aggressive nature of a cammed engine can make it difficult to live with on a daily basis. To make your cammed car more suited for daily driving, here are some modifications to consider:
- Exhaust Upgrade: A cam upgrade often results in an increase in exhaust noise, which can be irritating on longer drives. An exhaust upgrade can help to muffle the sound and make it more bearable.
- Tune: A proper tune can make all the difference in the world. It is often advisable to go with a custom dyno tune that is tailored to your specific setup. A good tune can improve driveability, throttle response, and idle quality.
- Gears: The right set of gears can significantly improve acceleration and reduce fuel consumption. Opt for a set of gears that balance acceleration and cruising ability. A professional mechanic can recommend the right gear set for your car.
Camshaft Selection
The right camshaft selection can make all the difference in the world. It’s important to put in the research to pick the right camshaft for your car. A camshaft that is too aggressive can make the car difficult to drive under normal conditions. A mild camshaft selection can provide a good balance between power and driveability. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a camshaft:
- Intended Use: Consider the intended use of the car. If your cammed car is a daily driver, you’ll want to opt for a mild camshaft that provides good low-end torque and driveability. If your car is a weekend cruiser or a track car, then an aggressive camshaft might be a better option.
- Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): The LSA determines the overlap between the intake and exhaust valves. A narrow LSA can result in better top-end power, while a wider LSA is better suited for low-end torque and driveability.
- Valve Lift: The valve lift determines the amount of air that enters the engine. A higher valve lift can result in more power, but it can also make the engine difficult to drive. Opt for a valve lift that provides a good balance between power and driveability.
Camshaft Installation
The installation of a camshaft is a complex process that requires a lot of attention to detail. A poorly installed camshaft can result in poor driveability, reduced power, and even engine failure. Here are some tips for installing a camshaft:
Before any work is carried out on the engine, make sure to disconnect the battery and properly secure the vehicle. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the installation of the camshaft, and be sure to replace any necessary parts, including pushrods, lifters, and valve springs. Once the camshaft is installed, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for break-in. This period is critical for ensuring the longevity of the engine. Once the break-in period is complete, have your car professionally tuned.
| Camshaft Dos | Camshaft Don’ts |
|---|---|
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By following these modifications and tips, owners can make their cammed cars more suitable for daily use while still enjoying the benefits of increased power and performance
Cammed car vs. stock car: a comparison for daily driving
Many car enthusiasts love the sound and performance of a cammed car, but is it practical for daily driving? Let’s compare the pros and cons of driving a cammed car versus a stock car as a daily driver.
Upfront Cost and Maintenance
- Camshafts – Camming your car requires installing aftermarket camshafts, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000.
- Tuning – After installing camshafts, the car’s computer system must be tuned to match the new parts, which can cost $500 to $1000 or more depending on the car and tuning method.
- Maintenance – Cammed cars may require more maintenance than stock cars, such as replacing valve springs and pushrods more frequently.
Performance and Sound
One of the main draws of driving a cammed car is the improved performance and unique exhaust note. A cammed car may have higher horsepower and torque compared to a stock car. Additionally, the lumpy cam sound is music to the ears of car enthusiasts.
However, the improved performance may come at a cost of fuel efficiency and drivability. A cammed car may have a rough idle and can be difficult to drive in traffic, making it less practical for daily use.
Factors to Consider
When deciding whether to daily drive a cammed car, it’s important to take into account the following factors:
- How often will you be driving the car?
- Will you be driving in heavy traffic or on long road trips?
- Do you have access to a mechanic who is experienced with modifying engines?
- Are you willing to put in extra money and time for maintenance?
Conclusion
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Improved performance and unique sound. | Costly upfront expenses and maintenance. |
| May have higher horsepower and torque. | Less fuel-efficient and difficult to drive in traffic. |
| Might require access to an experienced mechanic. |
Cammed cars are a great option for enthusiasts who prioritize performance and sound over practicality. However, for those who need a reliable and easy-to-drive daily, a stock car may be the better option.
How to Choose the Right Cam for a Car That Will Be Driven Daily
When it comes to upgrading your car’s camshaft, choosing the right one requires careful consideration, especially if you drive your car daily. Here are some factors you need to take into account:
- Intended use: Consider how you will be using your car. Will it be used for daily commuting, street racing, or drag strip events? A specific type of camshaft may be required for each use.
- Idle quality: A camshaft with a lopey idle may sound great, but it may also negatively affect the car’s overall performance and drivability.
- Valve timing: The camshaft’s duration and lift should be compatible with the engine’s valve timing in order to achieve optimal performance.
Here’s a detailed look at each factor:
Intended use
The type of camshaft you choose should match the intended use of your car. If you plan on using your car primarily for daily commuting, a camshaft with mild duration and lift would be a good choice. This will increase low-end torque and maintain good drivability. On the other hand, if you plan on using your car for drag races or other high-performance events, a camshaft with increased duration and lift would be a better choice.
Idle quality
A lopey-sounding camshaft may sound great, but it can negatively affect the car’s overall drivability. A camshaft with more duration and lift will likely produce more valve overlap, which causes the lopey sound. However, this can lead to reduced power at lower engine speeds and an unstable idle.
Valve timing
The camshaft’s duration and lift need to match the engine’s valve timing to achieve optimal performance. Durations longer than the engine’s valve overlap can lead to unburnt fuel and reduced power, while durations shorter than the engine’s valve overlap can cause intake and exhaust valve collision.
Before upgrading your car’s camshaft, consult with an expert or a reputable online source for guidance. They can help you pick the right camshaft for your engine and driving needs.
| Camshaft Type | Intended Use |
|---|---|
| Mild | Daily Driving, Towing |
| Street/Strip | Light Drag Racing, Street Performance |
| Aggressive | Drag Racing, Maximum Performance |
Choosing the right camshaft for daily driving requires taking into account the intended use, idle quality, and valve timing. By selecting an appropriate camshaft, you can improve your car’s performance without sacrificing drivability. Remember to seek advice from an expert before making any significant upgrades to your engine.
What to expect when daily driving a cammed car
Driving a cammed car is an exciting experience that can provide a rush of adrenaline to any car enthusiast. However, as much as it’s thrilling, there are also a few things that you need to keep in mind when considering daily driving a cammed car.
- Rough idle: Cammed cars usually have a more aggressive camshaft which results in a rougher idle coupled with a louder exhaust note. This is something you should be prepared for since stop-and-go traffic driving can become tedious.
- Increased wear and tear: The more aggressive cam can put extra strain on the motor over time, meaning the engine may need maintenance more frequently than a regular daily driver.
- Less drivability: Camshafts are designed to optimize high-end power gains which means that low-end drivability is often compromised. This can make driving a cammed car challenging in heavy traffic or on hills.
Despite these issues, many car enthusiasts still choose to daily drive a cammed car because of the perceived benefits that come with the added performance. Below are some of the things that you can expect when you make the decision to do so:
Increased power: A cammed car will usually see an increase in power, which often comes in the form of higher RPMs before the engine hits its power peak. This will be noticeable in everyday driving since you’ll be able to accelerate quicker. Also, passing other cars on the highway will be a breeze, thanks to the added power.
Better sound: Camshaft upgrades usually require exhaust modifications, so you can expect your car to have a better and louder exhaust note. It’s a satisfying experience that will make you feel like you’re driving a race car, even if you’re just running errands.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exciting driving experience. | Rough idle. |
| Increased power. | Increased wear and tear on the motor. |
| Better exhaust note. | Less drivable in stop-and-go traffic. |
In conclusion, daily driving a cammed car is feasible but requires a conscious decision since there are pros and cons to consider. It’s up to the driver to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of driving an upgraded engine based on their preferences and unique driving situations.
Common Issues to Watch Out for When Daily Driving a Cammed Car
If you’re considering daily driving a cammed car or already own one, it’s important to be aware of the potential issues that may arise. While these cars can be a lot of fun to drive, they also require extra attention and maintenance to ensure their longevity and reliability. In this article, we’ll discuss some common issues to watch out for when daily driving a cammed car.
1. Increased Engine Wear
One of the biggest risks associated with driving a cammed car is increased engine wear. The nature of a camshaft profile with more lift and duration is to have more valve and spring forces. When you increase these forces, it puts more stress on the engine, causing parts to wear out quicker. In addition, a performance camshaft can cause the engine to produce more heat, which can accelerate wear and tear on internal components.
2. Reduced Fuel Efficiency
- Camshafts with high lift will stay open longer, which allows more air into the combustion chamber. This increased airflow helps to make more power, but it also causes the car to consume more fuel. This means that you may need to fill up your gas tank more often than you would with a stock engine.
- The more aggressive camshaft profile can shift the engine’s power band higher leading to light-footed driving a challenge. Getting on and off throttle quickly could become a challenge leading to erratic driving habits and fuel inefficiency.
3. Loose and Noisy Timing Chains
As the camshaft moves the components in the engine around, it can put increased stress on the timing chain. Over time, this stress can cause the timing chain to become loose and noisy. It’s important to keep an eye out for any unusual noises coming from the timing chain, as this can be a sign of excessive wear and may require a replacement.
4. Rough Idle
Another common issue that cammed cars can experience is a rough idle. This is due to the camshaft profile with a larger lift and duration that keeps the air flowing into the combustion chamber longer. At idle, all this extra air can cause the engine to have a choppy or uneven idle. While this may not affect performance, it can be quite annoying and distracting while driving.
5. Overheating
As mentioned, a cammed car can produce more heat than a stock engine. If there is no sufficient cooling system in place or the engine is idled for an extended period, it could lead to overheating and cause damage to the engine. It’s crucial to monitor the coolant temperature gauge to prevent overheating issues.
6. Reduced Drivability
Driving a cammed car on the street can also affect the vehicle’s drivability. Due to the larger camshaft and higher valve and spring forces, it can cause the car to have a more “peaky” power band. This rev range shift can be problematic in slow-moving traffic conditions, especially while starting the vehicle from standstill or quick overtaking in the traffic. That can be a considerable problem even for seasoned drivers leading to uncomfortable driving experience.
7. Malfunctioning Sensors
| Sensor | Cause |
|---|---|
| Oxygen (O2) Sensors | The increased air and fuel flow due to aggressive camshafts, could lead O2 sensors to read rich and to cause significant fluctuations in the engine tune. |
| Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensors | Large camshafts with increased lift and duration can cause a higher airflow rate than the stock engine, which can confuse MAF sensors and cause drivability issues and stalling. |
| Intake Air Temperature Sensors | Upgraded or poorly designed intake systems can cause temperature inaccuracies due to a restricted airflow and change the sensor readings, which can affect drivability and torque output efficiency. |
Upgraded camshafts can also cause problems with engine sensors. For example, the increased air and fuel flow can confuse oxygen sensors, which may read rich and cause significant fluctuations in the engine tune. The MAF sensors can be confused by the higher airflow rates caused by a larger camshaft, and this can cause drivability issues and stalling. Additionally, intake air temperature sensors can be affected by poorly designed intake systems and cause inaccuracies that affect drivability and torque output efficiency.
Overall, daily driving a cammed car requires careful consideration and maintenance to ensure longevity and reliability. By being aware of these common issues, you can take the necessary steps to mitigate their effects and enjoy driving your cammed car to the fullest potential.
FAQs About Daily Driving a Cammed Car
Q: What is a cammed car?
A: A cammed car refers to a car that has had its camshaft replaced or modified. This modification can improve performance by allowing more oxygen into the engine, resulting in greater power output.
Q: Can you daily drive a cammed car?
A: Yes, it is possible to daily drive a cammed car. However, there are some things you need to keep in mind before making this decision.
Q: Does driving a cammed car affect fuel efficiency?
A: Yes, generally speaking, a cammed car will consume more fuel due to the increased power output. However, this may depend on the specific modifications made to your car’s camshaft.
Q: Will a cammed car be louder than stock?
A: It’s possible. A cammed car may produce more noise, which can be an issue if you live in a densely populated area or have close neighbors.
Q: Can driving a cammed car wear out the engine faster?
A: Yes, driving a cammed car can put more stress on the engine, which could lead to faster wear and tear. It’s important to take care of your car and perform regular maintenance.
Q: Is it safe to daily drive a cammed car?
A: It can be safe as long as you drive responsibly and follow the rules of the road. However, it’s important to remember that modifying your car can increase the risk of accidents if done improperly.
Q: Can you still pass emissions tests with a cammed car?
A: It depends on the specific modifications made to your car. If the modifications have been done correctly, you should still be able to pass emissions tests.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading our article on daily driving a cammed car! It’s important to remember that while it’s possible to drive a modified car every day, it may require more work and consideration than driving a stock car. Make sure to do your research, consult with experts, and take care of your vehicle to ensure safe and enjoyable driving experiences. We hope you found this article helpful and we invite you to come back soon for more helpful content.