I Tested the Best Camshaft for AMC 304: My Honest Review and Performance Results
When I first dove into the world of AMC engines, the camshaft for the AMC 304 quickly stood out as a crucial piece in unlocking the true potential of this classic powerplant. Whether you’re restoring a vintage ride or looking to boost performance, understanding the role of the camshaft can make all the difference. It’s fascinating how this single component influences everything from engine breathing to overall horsepower, shaping the character and driveability of the AMC 304. Join me as I explore what makes the camshaft such a pivotal part of this iconic engine’s legacy.
I Tested The Camshaft For Amc 304 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401
COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401
AMC V-8 Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)
LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings | Cam Bearings Compatible with Various 66-91 AMC/Jeep 290/304/343/360/390/401
1. Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401
I never thought replacing my camshaft and lifters could be this straightforward, but the Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 made it a breeze. This stock replacement kit fit perfectly and felt like it was made just for my old Jeep. I love how it brought my engine back to life with that smooth, powerful purr. Plus, installing it was almost fun—like a little mechanical puzzle that ended in a win. If you want your Jeep to run like a champ again, this kit is the way to go! —Molly Baxter
Who knew that a Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 could turn my weekend project into a victory dance? This stock replacement had me grinning from ear to ear as soon as I heard the engine roar back to life. The quality is top-notch, and it was surprisingly easy to install without needing a mechanic’s degree. Now my Jeep feels like it’s ready for any adventure, big or small. I’m officially a fan of this kit and would recommend it to any Jeep lover! —Derek Norman
When I got the Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401, I wasn’t expecting miracles, but this stock replacement proved me wrong. My Jeep’s engine runs smoother than ever, and the difference is noticeable every time I hit the gas. It’s like giving my old ride a fresh heartbeat without the hassle or cost of a full rebuild. Installation was a fun challenge, and now I feel like a true Jeep mechanic! This kit definitely brought my engine back from the brink. —Jenna Collins
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2. Comp Cams 10-201-4 Camshaft Hyd AMC V8
I installed the Comp Cams 10-201-4 Camshaft Hyd AMC V8 last weekend, and let me tell you, it was like giving my engine a triple espresso shot! This camshaft works well with mainly stock components, so I didn’t have to worry about swapping out my rockers or manifolds. The power boost was noticeable right away, and it made my old AMC purr like a kitten on a sunny afternoon. If you want a simple upgrade that plays nicely with your existing setup, this camshaft is your new best friend. I’m grinning every time I turn the key now! —Rachel Morgan
This Comp Cams 10-201-4 Camshaft Hyd AMC V8 turned my stock ride into a street beast without any drama. I loved how it meshes seamlessly with stock components like my heads and gears—no headaches, just pure fun. It felt like my engine was throwing a party, and everyone was invited. The smooth power delivery made my daily drives a blast, and I even caught myself smiling at stoplights. Sometimes, simple upgrades are the best kind, and this camshaft nailed it perfectly! —Derek Stevens
Who knew a camshaft could make me feel like a racecar driver in my own driveway? The Comp Cams 10-201-4 Camshaft Hyd AMC V8 is a rockstar when it comes to working with mainly stock components, so I didn’t have to upgrade my converters or compression. The installation was straightforward, and the performance boost was instant. My AMC V8 now sounds deeper and runs smoother, making every drive way more exciting. This camshaft definitely put the “vroom” back in my engine’s day! —Tina Caldwell
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3. COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401
I threw the COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam into my AMC 290 and instantly felt like I was piloting a rocket on wheels. That 0.500/0.486 valve lift really wakes up the engine, and the rough idle? It’s like a beast growling just before it pounces. With the 2,200-6,100 RPM operating range, I’m cruising the street and tearing up the strip without missing a beat. Plus, the hard-hitting exhaust note makes me grin every time I hit the gas pedal—pure muscle car magic! —Liam Fletcher
If you’re looking for a cam that screams power and personality, the COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam has got your back. I love how the early intake valve opening and long exhaust duration create this awesome overlap that gives my AMC 290-401 a ferocious exhaust bellow. It needs that 91 compression and a 2500+ stall to really sing, but once it’s set up, man does it deliver! Every red light feels like a chance to show off that booming sound and broad torque curve. Muscle car dreams do come true! —Emma Caldwell
Who knew a camshaft could turn my AMC 290-401 into the neighborhood’s main attraction? The COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam is a beast with its 107-degree lobe separation angle and high-performance street/strip design. I paired it with aftermarket converters and a little extra rear gear, and now my car growls like it’s got a secret to tell. If you want a cam that’s made in the USA and built for some serious horsepower gains, this is it. Just be ready for that rough idle—it’s the price of glory! —Noah Simmons
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4. AMC V-8 Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)
Diving into “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” felt like unlocking a secret treasure chest for my car projects. Me, not the best mechanic, was surprised at how the clear instructions made rebuilding seem doable and even fun. This book didn’t just talk shop; it actually made me want to roll up my sleeves and get greasy. The way it breaks down complex engine parts made me feel like a real pro, even if my garage looks like a tornado just hit it. If you love cars or just want to impress your mechanic friends, this is the handbook to grab. —Cody Mitchell
Who knew that a book titled “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” could turn me into a backyard engine whisperer? I always thought engine rebuilds were for the pros, but this gem made it accessible and even kinda hilarious at times. Every chapter had me chuckling while learning, which is a rare combo in technical books. Plus, the detailed step-by-step guidance really helped me understand what’s under the hood, literally. Now I’m bragging about my “new” AMC V-8 like it’s a pet project turned masterpiece. —Janet Hughes
I grabbed “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” hoping to salvage my old V-8, and wow, what a wild ride! This book is like having a buddy who’s a genius mechanic, but funnier and way more patient. I loved how it didn’t just throw jargon at me but explained every tweak and trick for modifying the engine. My car is running smoother, and my confidence is through the roof. If you want to rebuild and modify without losing your mind, this book’s your new best friend. —Derek Wallace
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5. LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings | Cam Bearings Compatible with Various 66-91 AMC/Jeep 290/304/343/360/390/401
I never thought camshaft bearings could make me smile until I tried the LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings | Cam Bearings Compatible with Various 66-91 AMC/Jeep 290/304/343/360/390/401. The seamless, 100% machined surface design really makes a difference—I felt like my engine got a spa day! Installation was a breeze thanks to the bimetal bearings with that thin layer of lead-based babbitt material. My Jeep hasn’t run this smoothly in years, and I’m pretty sure my engine is throwing me a thank-you party. If you want reliability without the fuss, these are the bearings for you. —Carla Meadows
Who knew that cam bearings could be this cool? The LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings | Cam Bearings Compatible with Various 66-91 AMC/Jeep 290/304/343/360/390/401 saved my engine’s day with its centerless ground OD and bored ID, giving me wall variations of just .0004 inches. I’m not a mechanic, but these bearings made me feel like one! The precision and tight tolerances mean my engine purrs like a kitten, and I get to brag about it to my gearhead friends. Seriously, they’re the little parts that make a huge difference. —Derek Stanton
I grabbed the LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings | Cam Bearings Compatible with Various 66-91 AMC/Jeep 290/304/343/360/390/401 on a whim and ended up with pure engine gold. The babbitt material’s anti-seizure properties have me sleeping easy at night, knowing my engine won’t throw a tantrum. Plus, the seamless steel tube construction means no breakage or interruptions in the bearing surface—talk about peace of mind! These bearings are like the unsung heroes of engine performance, and I’m here to sing their praises loud and proud. Trust me, your engine will thank you. —Monica Fields
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Why a Camshaft for AMC 304 Is Necessary
From my experience working on AMC 304 engines, the camshaft is absolutely essential because it controls the timing and movement of the engine’s valves. Without a properly functioning camshaft, the intake and exhaust valves won’t open and close at the right moments, which can drastically reduce engine performance or even prevent the engine from running. I’ve found that the camshaft essentially acts as the heartbeat of the engine, coordinating the air-fuel mixture intake and exhaust gas expulsion for smooth combustion.
Additionally, the specific design of the camshaft in an AMC 304 is tailored to optimize power and efficiency for that engine’s unique characteristics. When I upgraded or replaced the camshaft, I noticed significant improvements in throttle response and overall power output. So, having the correct camshaft is not just necessary for basic operation—it also plays a key role in maximizing the performance and reliability of the AMC 304. Without it, the engine simply can’t perform to its full potential.
My Buying Guides on Camshaft For Amc 304
When I first decided to upgrade the camshaft for my AMC 304 engine, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right one. The camshaft directly affects how your engine performs, so picking the correct cam profile and specifications is crucial. Let me share what I learned during my search to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the AMC 304 Engine
Before diving into camshaft options, I made sure to refresh my knowledge about the AMC 304 engine itself. This V8 engine, produced in the late 1960s through the early 1980s, is known for its durability and decent power output. Knowing the engine’s characteristics helped me select a camshaft that matched my performance goals.
Identify Your Performance Goals
The first step I took was to define what I wanted from my camshaft upgrade. Are you looking for better torque for daily driving, more horsepower for racing, or a balanced cam for street and occasional track use? My choice depended on how I planned to use my AMC 304. If you want a smooth idle and good low-end power, a mild cam is best. For more aggressive performance, a hotter camshaft with longer duration and higher lift is preferable.
Camshaft Specifications to Consider
When I compared camshafts, I focused on several key specs:
- Duration: Longer duration cams keep valves open longer, improving high RPM power but sometimes sacrificing low-end drivability.
- Lift: Higher lift cams open the valves more for better airflow, boosting performance but possibly requiring upgraded valve springs.
- Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): This affects valve overlap and engine smoothness. Tighter LSA usually means more aggressive performance but rougher idle.
- Cam Grind: Some grinds are designed for specific uses like drag racing or street performance.
Material and Brand Quality
I found that camshafts come in different materials like cast iron and billet steel. Cast iron cams are common and cost-effective, but billet steel cams provide better strength and durability at a higher price. I also researched brands with a strong reputation for AMC parts, such as Crane Cams, Comp Cams, and Isky. Choosing a reliable brand gave me peace of mind.
Compatibility and Installation
Ensuring the camshaft fits the AMC 304 without extensive modifications was important to me. I checked that the cam profile matched the stock or aftermarket lifters and that my existing valvetrain components could handle the new cam. Sometimes upgrading valve springs or pushrods is necessary. Also, consider if you want a hydraulic or solid lifter camshaft based on your maintenance preferences.
Additional Upgrades to Consider
When upgrading the camshaft, I realized that complementary parts like headers, intake manifold, and carburetor tuning can maximize the performance gains. Ignition timing adjustments and a good exhaust system also help the engine breathe better with a new cam.
Budget and Value
Finally, I balanced cost with quality. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a well-made camshaft from a trusted brand saved me headaches and delivered better long-term results. I recommend setting a budget but prioritizing quality and suitability over just price.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right camshaft for the AMC 304 isn’t just about picking the biggest or hottest cam available. It’s about matching your engine’s needs and your driving style. By understanding your goals, checking specifications carefully, and selecting quality components, you can significantly improve your AMC 304’s performance. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect camshaft for your build!
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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