Auto Racing: Cams..., jim mcfarland, stroke engine

Question
Hey John,
   I'm just beginning to learn about car engines I've been doing reseach about how engines work and run.  One thing I hear about and don't know what people mean is when they talk about having added a cam or a mild cam.  I'm pretty clueless but can't figure out what they are!  I would really appreciate any help!
Rob

Answer
Hi Rob. The camshaft in a 4 stroke engine is considered the brain.it controls airflow in and out of the engine .more air in and more out increases horsepower .the lobes on a camshaft may have a higher rate of opening and duration that they will keep the valve open to increase this airflow.A good website to check out on this is :http://www.n2performance.com/lecture1.shtml.you can download the host's lectures .(I've been reading Jim Mcfarland's articles for over 20 years,he was a top man at Edelbrock).Good Luck, jmazio