Cam selection

[zachmac]

I know, lots of posts on the forum, lots of info available why am I asking again? Because I value real world experience over theory and sales pitches and claims.

I am trying to decide on the right cams from the right supplier. I am limiting it to the less expensive regrinds, no Guy Croft or billet options.

Car: 1978 Spider with 2 ltr 79 engine, freshly bored to 84.4, 4mm domed pistons, should make about 9.8 static CR with 2 ltr head. All new bearings, etc., fresh close tolerance engine. I have decided for now to stay with the stock valve size but a PO did already clean up the head quite a bit, nice three angle seat job, Isky springs, some porting and polishing. Twin 42 DCNF downdrafts and a decent hot jet coated header. Running Allisons EDIS ignition. 14 lb lightened flywheel (think it's an older Miller Mule unit).

Intended use: street, driven aggressively and hoping the cops aren't around. Live mostly in flat terrain but am near enough to North GA and Carolina mountains to make occasional trips to fun, windy mountain roads (tail of the dragon anyone?). I expect to spend 90% of my time between 3000 and 6500 rpm. A mildly lumpy idle is okay, just nothing approaching my old hot cammed 396 Chevelle!

So I've narrowed ii down to either a fairly mild cam like Allisons 284 that has about .375 lift and a quoted 284 duration, or something more aggressive like a Bayless Stage 2, basically the old 40/80 setup. Opinions? What else should I consider in making the decision.

BTW, I will be degreeing in the cams with adjustable wheels so retarding or advancing one or the other to reach an ideal is an option.

Obviously anyone with first hand experience with a similar setup please chime in.

[So Cal Mark]

the important factor is the operating range-where you plan to run the engine and where the selected cams make power. If you don't plan to rev over 6500rpm don't choose a cam that makes power way up over 7k. For driving like you plan, torque out of the corners and pulling through midrange will give you the best results

[baltobernie]

I have 80/40's, and they make very little power below 3K. I'd recommend a wideband O2 gauge to assist in dialing-in.