This is where Comp Cams comes in. Camshafts are chosen based on nearly every internal component in an engine, and bore and stroke are huge contributors that decide which camshaft is best for that particular engine, as well as the purpose of the engine. That being said, which camshaft should we go with? One that is perfect for the short-deck won't help the tall-deck engine achieve maximum performance, and vice versa. We considered a middle-of-the-road camshaft that would be fair for both, but it's hard to say exactly where the "middle" of the road is.
The solution: have Comp Cams grind a custom camshaft to suit each engine. The benefits are two-fold. First, maximum performance for each application will be achieved. Comp knows which cylinder heads, intake manifolds, carburetors, fuel type, and octane we're using, and can maximize output based on those parameters for each engine. The other advantage is that we'll be closer to maximizing each engine's power potential, which means big numbers on the dyno.
The profile that Comp chose features 0.580/0.585-inch lift, 236/242 duration at 0.050-inch, and 107 degree lobe separation. The tall-deck engine will feature different specs, but we'll get into that next time. For now, we're at Auto Performance Engines in Auburndale, Florida, to follow along with Kevin Willis as he prepares our short-deck 363.
6 To ensure the camshaft...
6 To ensure the camshaft is degreed properly, Comp Cams sent us one of its billet steel adjustable timing chains (PN 8138; $210.36). This chain set features a billet gear, ARP fasteners, and a Torrington roller thrust bearing for reduced friction.
7 Willis then dialed in the...
7 Willis then dialed in the camshaft to straight up, which is actually four degrees advanced (ground into the camshaft).
8 Summit Racing Equipment...
8 Summit Racing Equipment sent us one of its universal timing covers (PN SES-5-60-04-201; $118.95) and fuel pump block-off plates (PN SUM-G243; $11.95).
9 We also ordered an oil...
9 We also ordered an oil pan kit from Summit Racing (PN CMB-08-0057; $352.36), which includes a Melling high-volume oil pump (shown), Hamburger oil pan, pickup tube, gasket, ARP bolts, and a tube of RTV sealant. Summit also sent us this ARP oil pump driveshaft (PN ARP-154-7904; $18.09).
10 After installing the pump...
10 After installing the pump and pickup tube, Willis measured the pickup tube depth from the block, and also the depth of the pan. We have 3/8-inch clearance, which falls within spec.
11 Willis installed our timing...
11 Willis installed our timing cover using Fel-Pro gaskets and ARP fasteners.
12 FRPP sent us one of its...
12 FRPP sent us one of its zero balance harmonic balancers (PN M-6316-D302; $274.95), since our short-block is internally balanced. Willis installed it with an ARP bolt and washer.
13a Willis installed the...
13a Willis installed the timing pointer, and using a dial indicator...
13b ...checked to ensure the...
13b...checked to ensure the timing pointer pointed at zero on the balancer at top dead center, which it did.
14 Since the Z304 heads require...
14 Since the Z304 heads require 0.150-inch offset intake rocker arms, FRPP sent us a set of its 1.65:1 rocker arms (PN M-6564-F351; $449.95).
15 The offset intake rockers...
15 The offset intake rockers (left) are necessary when installing the Z304 heads.
16 Willis temporarily installed...
16 Willis temporarily installed one cylinder head to check piston-to-valve clearance and to measure for pushrod length. Ours requires 6.700-inch pushrods, which we ordered from Comp Cams.
17 Prior to installing the...
17 Prior to installing the rockers to test for clearance, Willis marked on the valve stem with a permanent marker. After removing the rocker arms, a witness mark is seen where the rocker arm contacts the stem. Ours is barely inboard, and acceptable to Willis.
18 Willis then installed...
18 Willis then installed the oil pan and fastened it with ARP bolts.
19 Back up top, he installed...
19 Back up top, he installed the pre-soaked Comp Cams hydraulic roller lifters (PN 851-16; $217.63) and retainer kit (PN 31-1000; $42.99), also from Comp.
20 Willis then installed...
20 Willis then installed the FRPP head gaskets (PN M-6051-R351; $70.95 each), which are the same ones found on the 363ci crate engine, and the ARP head studs.
21 After tightening the cylinder...
21 After tightening the cylinder heads, Willis checked our Fel-Pro intake manifold gaskets for fitment. The openings on the gasket are slightly smaller than the ports on the heads.
22 He then matched the gaskets...
22 He then matched the gaskets to our Edelbrock Super Victor intake manifold. The ports on the intake are slightly smaller than the gasket, so we don't need to trim the gaskets. He then installed our intake and bolted it on with ARP bolts.
23 Crane Cams sent us one...
23 Crane Cams sent us one of its Pro Curve distributors (PN 1000-1600). Designed for street/strip use, this distributor has timing accuracy within 0.5 degree.
24 Meziere sent us a high-flow...
24 Meziere sent us a high-flow electric water pump (PN WP312S; $430.00) for this test. We went ahead and installed it with the supplied hardware and gaskets. This pump will give us more than enough water flow for our dyno sessions. It also comes with removable plugs and hose nipples, in case we want to install it on a car equipped with a heater.
25 Holley sent us a few of...
25 Holley sent us a few of its new Ultra HP series carburetors. This 950-cfm sample (PN 0-80805HB; $830.96) features black billet pieces and a unique Hard Core Gray anodized finish.
26 Our short-deck 363 is ready for battle. Comp Cams even gave us a pair of these sinister black valve covers to match the Holley carb and Meziere water pump. Check back to see our tall-deck competitor.