Another Cam Selection Thread

The reason for going with a custom has nothing to do with your set up - high compression, low compression, big heads, small heads, etc. The reason for going with a custom is so you have more certainty that the cam you install is actually going to accomplish what you want to accomplish. Most of the cam companies out there are going to try and sell you an off the shelf grind - it's what they do. They already have them in stock and they'd like to try and move them.

If you have clear goals that you're trying to accomplish with the motor, and you know the rest of the components you're gonna be using, letting one of the reputable cam designers model your set up is the surest way to have some certainty that when you fire that new combo up the first time, it's gonna run the way you expect it to - make the power level you were expecting in the rpm range you were expecting.

Right off the bat I can tell you that the 2031's split duration (more exhaust than intake) is designed for a head that is intake biased in it's flow capabilities. A head that doesn't flow as well on the exhaust side relative to the intake side can benefit from a cam that has more exhaust duration and/or lift to make up for the head's flow characteristics. The 165's aren't saddled with that issue - they flow quite well on the exhaust side. Most of the specs on custom grinds that are put together for the 165's are much closer in duration for intake and exhaust. I'd stick with your original plan - let one of the custom guys help you figure it out. Otherwise, you're just guessing.

And that is why I went with an FTI cam...going to install in 2 1/2 weeks...can't wait...