Anybody know what type of camshaft Olds used for 72 2BBL? Same with the lifters. Are they mechanical or hydraulic? Flat or roller? So far I have been buying used parts so I might be able to buy a hydraulic roller cam if it is truly worth the extra money.

I love the sound of the rough choppy lopey idle. Is a smoother sounding one better on gas? Or are they unrelated?

 

Flat tappet, hydraulic,

 

As said, the factory camshaft was a flat tappet hydraulic. It was a very mild profile with .400"/.400" lift, 186º/202º duration @ .050" lift, and 250º/264º advertised duration.

 

 

Unless you upgrade the Pistons in that motor, stay mild on the camshaft. Yes, an agressive cam will kill mileage. A properly matched roller cam is the best for vacuum, mileage and power.

 

100% agree! The factory 71-72 pistons have HUGE 24cc dishes that translate to around 8:1 compression ratio. It's easy to overcam the engine so you have to be very conservative with the camshaft profile; otherwise, you kill the low end power and will hate driving the car.

 

Wow. Didn't know that you guys, thanks for warning me. Perhaps I will save up a little longer and get some flatter pistons. LOL, my worst fear, the upgrade list keeps getting longer!

 

Cutlassefi brought a Mahle 10cc dish forged pistons that give low to mid 9 to 1 compression for your 72 350. Very light and an ultra modern ring pack.