Are you wondering how much it costs to cam a truck? You’ve come to the right place!
If you’re looking to boost your truck’s horsepower and overall performance, installing a camshaft is a popular and effective modification.
But before you dive into this upgrade, it’s important to understand the costs involved.
In this blog, we’ll break down the expenses associated with camming your truck, so you can make an informed decision and get the most bang for your buck.
How much does it cost to cam a truck?
Most shops will charge between $600 and $1,000 to cam your truck.
However, the cost of camming a truck can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the type of camshaft, the brand of the camshaft, the make and model of the truck, and the amount of labor required for the installation.
What are the factors that affect the cost of camming a truck?
Camming a truck, also known as installing a performance camshaft, is a process that involves replacing the stock camshaft with a high-performance camshaft to increase the engine’s power and torque output.
The cost of camming a truck can vary depending on various factors, which are:
1. Type of Camshaft:
The cost of camming a truck largely depends on the type of camshaft being installed.
Performance camshafts can be categorized into hydraulic, solid, and roller camshafts, with each having different costs.
2. Brand:
The brand of the camshaft can also affect the cost. Premium brands like Comp Cams, Crane Cams, and Lunati are typically more expensive than budget brands.
3. Engine Size:
The engine’s size is a crucial factor when it comes to camming a truck.
Larger engines require larger camshafts, which are usually more expensive than smaller ones.
4. Type of Truck:
The type of truck can also affect the cost of camming.
Heavy-duty trucks with diesel engines may require a different type of camshaft, which can be more expensive than those for light-duty trucks with gasoline engines.
5. Labor Costs:
Camming a truck requires professional installation, which means labor costs will be added to the overall cost of the project.
Labor costs can vary depending on the shop and the experience level of the mechanic.
6. Additional Parts:
Some trucks may require additional parts to support the new camshaft, such as valve springs, lifters, and pushrods.
These additional parts can add to the overall cost of camming a truck.
7. Location:
The location of the shop or mechanic can also affect the cost of camming a truck.
In some areas, labor costs may be higher, while in others, the cost of living may be lower, resulting in lower labor costs.
What Does Camming a Truck Do?
Here are some of the benefits of camming a truck:
1. Increased power:
A performance camshaft can increase the power output of a truck’s engine by opening the engine’s valves for a longer period of time, allowing more fuel and air to enter the combustion chamber.
This results in a greater explosion and a higher level of power.
2. Improved torque:
Torque is the force that a truck’s engine generates to move the vehicle.
A performance camshaft can improve the torque output of a truck’s engine by allowing the engine to produce more power at lower RPMs, which can help with towing and hauling.
3. Enhanced throttle response:
Camming a truck can improve throttle response, which is the time it takes for the engine to respond to the driver’s inputs.
With a performance camshaft, the engine can respond more quickly to the driver’s demands, providing a more satisfying driving experience.
4. Better fuel efficiency:
Contrary to popular belief, camming a truck can actually improve fuel efficiency by making the engine run more efficiently.
This is because the engine is able to burn fuel more completely, reducing waste and increasing mileage.
5. Unique sound:
A performance camshaft can also provide a unique sound to a truck’s engine.
This can be appealing to some truck enthusiasts who enjoy the rumble and roar of a powerful engine.
Additional cost to cam a truck
When it comes to camming a truck, there are several additional costs you should be aware of. Here are some points to consider:
1. Camshaft:
The camshaft is the main component of a cam upgrade.
A performance camshaft can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the quality and brand you choose.
2. Valve Springs:
When upgrading the camshaft, it’s important to also upgrade the valve springs.
This is because the increased lift and duration of the camshaft can put additional stress on the valve springs.
Upgraded valve springs can cost anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on the quality and brand you choose.
3. Lifters:
Upgrading the camshaft may also require new lifters. This is because the lifters need to match the new camshaft profile.
New lifters can cost anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on the quality and brand you choose.
4. Timing Chain:
Upgrading the camshaft may also require a new timing chain.
This is because the increased lift and duration of the camshaft can cause the timing chain to stretch or wear out faster.
A new timing chain can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the quality and brand you choose.
5. Tuning:
Upgrading the camshaft may also require a new tune. This is because the new camshaft profile will change the way the engine breathes, and the fuel and ignition tables will need to be adjusted accordingly.
Tuning can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the tuner and the complexity of the job.
6. Labor:
Finally, you’ll need to consider the labor cost of installing the new camshaft and associated components.
Labor costs can vary widely depending on the shop you choose and the complexity of the job, but you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
FAQs
What Is Camming A Truck, And Why Do People Do It?
Camming a truck involves replacing the engine’s camshaft with a higher-performance one.
This can increase horsepower and torque, improve throttle response, and give the engine a more aggressive sound.
People cam their trucks for various reasons, including increased towing or hauling capacity, improved acceleration and performance, or simply for the fun of it.
What Types Of Camshafts Are Available For Trucks, And How Do I Choose The Right One?
There are several different types of camshafts available for trucks, ranging from mild to wild.
A mild camshaft may be suitable for everyday driving and light towing, while a more aggressive camshaft may be better for heavy towing, racing, or off-roading.
It’s important to do your research and talk to a trusted mechanic or camshaft specialist to determine the best camshaft for your truck.
Do I Need To Do Any Other Modifications To My Truck When Camming It?
Depending on the type of camshaft being installed and the specific needs of your truck, you may need to make additional modifications to ensure proper performance and longevity.
This can include upgrading the fuel system, exhaust system, or transmission, among other things.
Can Camming My Truck Void My Warranty?
Yes, camming your truck can potentially void your warranty, depending on the specific terms and conditions of your warranty agreement.
It’s important to read your warranty carefully and talk to your dealership or manufacturer before making any modifications to your vehicle.
Conclusion
Adding a camshaft to your truck can be a great way to boost its performance, but it’s important to understand the associated costs.
The total cost of camming your truck can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of camshaft you choose, the specific components required for your engine, and the cost of labor if you hire a professional to install the camshaft.
