How do I know if my Chevrolet Small Block has a flat tappet or roller valvetrain?

The best way to confirm is to remove the intake manifold or timing cover. Factory roller camshafts have a different lifter and pushrod setup compared to the traditional flat tappet design. Many trucks and SUVs retained flat tappet cams into the mid-90s, while performance cars received them earlier.

What other components are recommended for this camshaft?

COMP Cams suggests pairing this camshaft with better intake components, improved cylinder heads, headers, and a carburetor for optimal performance. They also recommend using 1.65 to 1.7 ratio rocker arms.

Does this camshaft fit my 1990 Chevrolet 350 engine?

This camshaft is designed for Chevrolet Gen 1 Small Blocks with flat tappet valvetrains. If your 1990 350 engine was built with a factory roller camshaft, this camshaft will not be compatible. It is recommended to check your engine's configuration by removing the intake or timing cover.

COMP Cams Nitrided Camshaft CS 279Ma-S6 12-628-20

Name: COMP Cams Nitrided Camshaft CS 279Ma-S6
Brand: COMP Cams
Price: 467.89 USD
Availability: InStock

COMP Cams Nitrided Camshaft CS 279Ma-S6

$467.89

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COMP Cams Nitrided Camshaft CS 279Ma-S6 for Chevrolet Gen 1 Small Blocks. Nitrided for improved durability.

Key Features

Fits Chevrolet Gen 1 Small Blocks from 262 to 400 cubic inches.
Solid flat tappet design with 252 intake and 260 exhaust duration.
Nitrided surface hardening for improved lobe and journal wear resistance.
Recommended for use with improved intake, heads, headers, and carburetor.
Works well with 1.65-1.7 ratio rocker arms.
Suitable for larger displacement engines (377-410 cubic inches).

⚠️ CA WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and/or birth defects or other reproductive harm. Learn more

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Product Details

This COMP Cams Nitrided Camshaft, part number 12-628-20, features a solid flat tappet design with a 252-degree intake and 260-degree exhaust duration. The camshaft is nitrided, a surface hardening process that significantly improves wear resistance on the lobes and journals, which is especially important for flat tappet designs. This camshaft is intended for Chevrolet Gen 1 Small Block engines, covering displacements from 262 to 400 cubic inches.

For optimal performance with this camshaft, COMP Cams recommends using better intake components, improved cylinder heads, headers, and a carburetor. It also suggests 1.65 to 1.7 ratio rocker arms and is well-suited for larger displacement engines around 377-410 cubic inches. It's crucial to confirm your engine uses a flat tappet valvetrain, as this camshaft is not compatible with factory roller camshafts found in many 1985 and newer Small Blocks, nor is it for LS-based engines.

This camshaft fits a wide range of Chevrolet Gen 1 Small Block applications, including popular models like the Chevrolet C10, Camaro, and Caprice. Always verify your specific engine's valvetrain configuration before installation to ensure proper fitment and performance.