mother$hip89

I am trying to pick out a cam for my mostly stock 350. I was about set on the Comp Cams XE262H but just noticed it looks like I can't use stock springs with any of their Xtreme Energy cams. Is this correct? Also, can the Lunati 262/262 use stock springs, I can't find anything about it?

Fun71

What do you mean by stock springs? If you are referring to 40-50 year old factory springs, it would not be a good idea to use those. Back in 1982 I rebuilt the engine in my car and reused the factory springs (they were 11 years old then) and the valves floated at 5000 RPM. I installed a new set of springs and the engine pulled to 5800 RPM.

Run to Rund

So-called "modern" camshafts have much quicker rates than most of the original cams. If you are seeking more power than stock, they are great at keeping the low rpm response and adding mid range or higher rpm power. However, you need stiffer springs to control the valve train actions with such modern cams. In the Olds lineup, the closest to "old style" was the W31/early W30 grind (308 degree) which came with about 200 lb springs. The "big" 328 degree W30 cam used 300+ pound (open) springs.

OLDSter Ralph

Get new valve springs, its cheap insurance. Break a valve spring or float the valves and a piston hammers a valve, you will have pieces parts in the oil pan. Valve springs get old, lose strength or break.

Fun71

Olds engines aren't interference style so there's no issue with piston to valve contact.

v8al

Interference typically applies if you break the timing chain. Break a valve spring and your probably DOA.

Fun71

Oops, yeah, you're right about the timing chain. Sorry for derailing the discussion - carry on.

mother$hip89

Ok dig, new springs it is then. Thanks guys.