I understand that if I get new cams I will need a new tune, but how hard is the cam install if I were to do it? I am thinking of HiTech stage 2 cams, they say that springs are not required. I have taken off my gf's valve cover on her eclipse multiple times and am somewhat familiar with what is located under the valve cover. So, I am wondering how long an install would be and if any special tools are needed.

Also, are cams one of those things that either work or dont, or are they one of those things that if it is slightly off it will still work but with less efficiency and a higher chance of failure?

Any input on cam installs would be helpful.

 

If a cam doesn't require springs it's not worth it in my opinion...

Why spend all the money and not just go ahead and do the springs and retainers?

Anyways, to answer your question cams are a pretty complex install. The main thing is getting the timing chains and gears lined up as to not **** anything up when you reinstall them.

Another thing is that cams are useless without LTs as well. And I would not be going cheap and getting some pypes longtubes like your sig says. You'll regret it, trust me. I'd go with MAC myself, they're both good and still fairly cheap.

If you get some nicer cams that do require springs, some good LTs, and a good shop to tune the car afterwards you can have a pretty nice little setup. Of course then ported heads would be the way to go, and by that time you could've easily just put on a procharger or smaller twinscrew and had more power.

Keeping a car N/A is expensive, but in my opinion is much nicer of a car. Just make sure it's what you want to do...no turning back once the money is spent.

 

it is a sensitive procedure with at least 3 special tools involved. There's a couple different routes to take but basically you'll have to pull the front cover, valve covers and cams and roller followers. Put the new cam in, time it (degree wheel, dial indicator and solid lash adjuster needed for that), reinstall the followers and the covers and everything. It's a pretty long job... figure 2 days for most guys with hand tools.

I would find a shop in your area and ask them for a quote on installation, degree-ing, and tuning. I'm betting about 800 bucks.

EDIT: Just put a 100shot of nitrous on the car. It'll be faster, cheaper and optional and it'll still pass smog. Cams are really expensive for the gains. You can nail 300rwhp on a PI motor with HT 2's and longtubes but the total cost is like 2500 bucks. A blower nets you 80-100hp for 3500. Nitrous gets you whatever you jet it for for about 400 bucks... installed.

 

Damn man, that is expensive. I guess I'll have to hold off till I land a new job.

It's just funny though that it's so expensive and my gf's eclipse gsx can hit 350awhp with like 1500 bucks total.

Last thing. Longtubes, I know the install is a pain, but is it just getting to the bolts that is so tough about it? Or is there something else?

 

it's the bolts, and getting the new pipes in there.

 

So, then its about having the right depth sockets and extensions...If it just about this and the amount of time for installation then I'm golden.

Thx guys.

 

no... it's about pulling the damned k-member which is a bucket full of suck. You'll need air tools. You'll need to have an idea what you're doing and you'll need an engine support (griggs sells a nice one).