I’ve got the original rocket on a stand and want to freshen it up. The cylinder walls look good as do the heads. What I am looking for is a bit more a lumpy sound at idle and some lore horsepower. I don’t need anything crazy. I think 300 hp would be good with my set up (3.42 gears and currently 3 speed trans). I’ve got headers for it an a 4bbl intake. The pistons are staying in it. So here’s my questions with what I stated I’d like above.

1. what type of cam?
2. Type of lifters?
3. What else can I do to squeeze that 300hp out of the rocket?

Thanks.

 

It may help if you said what engine you are working on. Camshaft recommendations would be very different for a 455 than they would for a 350, for example.

 

It also helps to know what compression ratio the engine has. This will make big difference in cam selection.

 

Olds Rocket 350. Sorry, I should have mentioned that.

 

Problem is, if your motor is a stock 71 350, you have 8 to 1 compression, not great for performance. The only good way to raise the compression is to change pistons. There are two hone the cylinders to fit options in 4.065" bore from CP and Mahle. The Mahle pistons would give a more friendly mid 9's compression ratio vs the 10+ to 1 CP pistons. They are lighter so a rebalance would be necessary.

 

Thanks. I believe it is a stock 350. I'll look into getting the cylinders honed.