Since there are so many better grind cams out these days, what is a good recommendation for a '68 350 Hi-Compression Motor with the #5 Heads. Assuming everything is stock and just getting freshened up but wanting to go with a better grind than stock. It is an original 4 bbl with Hedman headers and dual exhaust. My limited research shows that motor to be a 10:1 - 10.5:1 motor which should yield some pretty decent HP for a weekend driver. Running a TH350 w/ a mild stall converter and haven't checked the gears yet, but would want 3:08 or similar gears in the end... Thanks

 

Have the heads been off, and aftermarket head gaskets installed? Asking because the factory claimed 10.25:1 compression ratio, but in reality it was just under 10:1. This was with the factory steel shim head gaskets that are 0.017” thick. Using thicker aftermarket gaskets in the 0.040” thick range will reduce the compression a bit more.

So with that said, upper 9.xx:1 compression ratio is likely.

 

Yes, heads are off and will likely just be cleaned up and reinstalled. I am aware of the thicker head gaskets and it affecting the CR, but all things considered, this was likely one of the best years, as far as combination and HP rating of the Oldsmobile 350... That being said...

1) Are there any other options for head gaskets besides the Fel-Pro?
2) What would be a "better" cam than stock for this combination? Stock pistons, stock heads, stock rods, stock valves... May get a cam, lifter, spring combination if available... Just wanted to get the opinion of more experienced Oldsmobile enthusiast...

 

Yes, Cometics which come in .027 thick if desired.
Cam choice will depend on the rest of the combo, as well as your wants and needs.
I offer various grinds for various combinations once you’ve finalized your combo.

 

Oh Lort!!! Today was a fiasco! I’ll be contacting you early next week… Thank you