In 1957, Chevrolet increased displacement of the 266-cubic inch V-8 to 283 cubic inches. For the next four years, Chevy made the 283 faster by adding factory performance parts. Chevy’s 283 improvements resulted in difficult camshaft selections for today's novice and intermediate enthusiasts. Learn how to pick a camshaft combination that works best for your type of 283 by following some simple steps.
Determine the ride you desire from your Chevy 283, whether you're aiming for efficiency or speed. Analyze the road type and driving conditions as these factors will play into how the car handles after you install a new camshaft.
Select a 097 Duntov camshaft for your 283 if you want to increase low-end torque and increase usable RPM over the entire power band. Add roller lifters with this type of camshaft for a powerful sound at idle and even more top-end speed. This cam selection will increase the amount of usable RPM for speed and performance.
Select a stock Powerpack cam for your Chevrolet 283 engine if you prefer efficiency to performance. A stock Powerpack camshaft works well with every version of the Chevy 283. Because each new head that was introduced had the same lift (.050), the Powerpack cam uses the most efficient opening and closing pattern for the valves.
Install new lifters when you choose a new camshaft. Adjust each new lifter by lashing the valves after installing a replacement cam. Remove the valve covers and loosen the rocker arm retainer for each valve spring. Oil and insert a new lifter for each cylinder. Gap the space between the rocker arm and the top of the valve springs to achieve the best results from your new camshaft.
