cam selection
 

Ok guys, I need help picking out a cam and since you've nailed every other question I've ever had, I'll try here first. I basically have an L-88 (not from an L-88) and it is getting a freshen up of rings, bearings, gaskets, etc. and want to upgrade the cam. I would like to get to some type of hydraulic cam for maintainence reasons, but I've lived with solids this long and can continue if necessary. I have a stock bore 427, 4 bolt mains, 7/16 dimples, 12.5:1, 840 heads (ported-gasket matched with polished bowls and intake runners), 163 intake, and a holley 750.
Now I don't know much about cams, but I was told it would be a good idea to get something with more duration to lessen the squeeze of the 12.5:1.
What I'd like
1 - it has to idle (a good lope is fine, but I don't want to have to keep it at 1700 rpms for an idle)
2 - enough vacuum to use the disk brakes
3 - Smooth power curve.

In general I want it streetable, but this is a weekend toy only, so it's a relative statement.

Thanks!

Re: cam selection
 

Cue the broken record...

The Crane/GM "143" blueprint cam that was used in the LS6/L72/L78 would be a good choice...

Re: cam selection
 

[ QUOTE ]
Ok guys, I need help picking out a cam and since you've nailed every other question I've ever had, I'll try here first. I basically have an L-88 (not from an L-88) and it is getting a freshen up of rings, bearings, gaskets, etc. and want to upgrade the cam. I would like to get to some type of hydraulic cam for maintainence reasons, but I've lived with solids this long and can continue if necessary. I have a stock bore 427, 4 bolt mains, 7/16 dimples, 12.5:1, 840 heads (ported-gasket matched with polished bowls and intake runners), 163 intake, and a holley 750.
Now I don't know much about cams, but I was told it would be a good idea to get something with more duration to lessen the squeeze of the 12.5:1.
What I'd like
1 - it has to idle (a good lope is fine, but I don't want to have to keep it at 1700 rpms for an idle)
2 - enough vacuum to use the disk brakes
3 - Smooth power curve.

In general I want it streetable, but this is a weekend toy only, so it's a relative statement.

Thanks!

[/ QUOTE ]

What do you think everybody here is waiting for your questions ?

You should call a cam maker. They are best suited to intelligently guide you to an exact grind. If you do not know any cam grinders start with calling Comp.

Re: cam selection
 

Too much. Now I am reminded why I hadn't posted here for a long while. Yep, already got the recommendation from comp cams. For some reason, I thought that since this was a site dedicated to yenko's and has a bunch of other 427 cars around, it would have been a good place to get some advice from people who had real world experience, but I guess not. I don't know what I was smoking.

Re: cam selection
 

Can't help you on a hydraulic, but the Chevy454 recommendation on the stock GM L72 is a great idea. I've talked around a dozen guys into this cam, and they are always pleased! Always have picked up over any Comp Cam that is "close"! However..... if you compression is a true 12.5:1 (did you cc the heads and deck the block etc.) the L88 solid might be you cam. It will lessen the squeeze as you stated, and it will idle @ 900 rpm, although a little rough. That cam from 400- rpm on is outstanding. Both cams are great.
Peter

Re: cam selection
 

................ however, on the L88 cam, your power brakes are no where near what the L72 spec cam will give ya!
Peter