I know what you’re thinking. It’s time for more power. And now you want to know – How much horsepower does a stage 2 cam add? Engine modification has been a popular way for car enthusiasts to boost the performance of their vehicles for decades. One of the most common modifications people make is upgrading to a Stage 2 cam. Today, we are going to answer your question.
Horsepower is a crucial metric when it comes to engine performance. It determines the amount of power an engine can produce and how quickly a vehicle can accelerate. For this reason, it’s essential to understand the impact of a Stage 2 cam on horsepower when considering engine modifications.
A Stage 2 cam is a specific type of aftermarket camshaft designed to improve the performance of an engine. It’s a popular choice among car enthusiasts who want to enhance their vehicle’s power, speed, and acceleration. Understanding the impact of a Stage 2 cam on horsepower is crucial for anyone who wants to make an informed decision about engine modification.
In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into:
- What is a camshaft?
- What is a Stage 2 cam is?
- What does a Stage 2 cam do?
- How much horsepower does a Stage 2 cam add
We’ll also discuss the most popular Stage 2 cam products and brands, as well as the pros and cons of upgrading to a Stage 2 cam.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding on how much horsepower a stage 2 cam adds. And you’ll understand what the right choice is for you. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or just getting started with engine modifications, this post has everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
What is a camshaft used for?
A camshaft is a rotating cylindrical object in an engine that opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves in a precise manner to control the flow of air and fuel into the engine.
A camshaft is a rotating cylindrical object in an engine that opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves in a precise manner to control the flow of air and fuel into the engine. Camshafts play a critical role in engine performance, determining the timing and duration of valve opening and closing, which affects the engine’s power, speed, and efficiency.
Stage 1 vs. Stage 2 vs. Stage 1 cam
Camshafts come in different stages, each designed for a specific purpose.
- Stage 1 cams, for example, are designed for daily drivers who want to improve their engine’s efficiency.
- Stage 2 cams, on the other hand, are designed for performance enthusiasts who want to enhance their engine’s power, speed, and acceleration.
- Stage 3 cams feature even more aggressive lift and duration profiles, resulting in even more power and torque. However, these cams often require even more extensive engine modifications and custom tuning to work correctly. Stage 3 cams tend to be best suited for race cars and high performance vehicles.
What is a Stage 2 Cam
A Stage 2 cam gives performance enthusiasts increased engine power, speed, and acceleration in their vehicle.
What makes Stage 2 cams unique is their aggressive lift and duration profiles, which allow for more air and fuel to enter the engine. This results in more power and torque compared to Stage 1 cams or stock camshafts. Additionally, Stage 2 cams often require other engine modifications to work correctly, such as upgrading to high-performance springs, lifters, and pushrods. Upgrading to a Stage 2 cam can bring increased horsepower and torque, a sportier engine note, and improved engine efficiency.
What makes Stage 2 cams unique is their aggressive lift and duration profiles, which allow for more air and fuel to enter the engine. This results in more power and torque compared to Stage 1 cams or stock camshafts. Additionally, Stage 2 cams often require other engine modifications to work correctly, such as upgrading to high-performance springs, lifters, and pushrods.
It’s important to note that a Stage 2 cam is not the most aggressive camshaft available. For those who want even more performance, there is the Stage 3 cam. That said, Stage 2 cams offer a strong balance between performance gains and practicality, making them a popular choice for performance enthusiasts.
What does a Stage 2 Cam do
Upgrading to a Stage 2 cam can bring several benefits to your engine. The aggressive lift and duration profiles of Stage 2 cams allow for more air and fuel intake, resulting in increased power and torque. Additionally, Stage 2 cams often provide a more aggressive engine note, giving your vehicle a sportier sound.
Improved Performance and Engine Efficiency from Stage 2 Cam
The increased airflow from a Stage 2 cam results in improved engine performance, with gains in horsepower and torque. In some cases, installing a Stage 2 cam can also increase fuel efficiency by allowing the engine to breathe better. This results in a more efficient combustion process and reduces engine stress, leading to longer engine life.
How Much Horsepower Does A Stage 2 Cam Add?
The amount of increased horsepower and torque from a Stage 2 cam varies depending on several factors, such as engine size, compression ratio, and other modifications. On average, you can expect horsepower gains of 15-20% and torque gains of 20-30%. These gains may seem modest, but the improvement in engine performance is noticeable and can make your vehicle much more fun to drive. Ultimately, the impact is big and you’ll be happier for it.
What are the Best Stage 2 Cam Products?
There are a number of excellent products and brands. We generally love these brands when it comes to Stage 2 Camshafts:
- Brian Tooley Racing – BTR Stage 2 Camshafts
- COMP Cams Xtreme Energy Camshafts
- Lunati Voodoo Camshafts
- Kaisal Sloppy Stage 2 Camshafts
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You should review the best cams for the different engine types which correspond to you. Please check out our detailed writeups for:
- Best Cam for 5.3 Vortec
- Best Cam for 6.0 Vortec
- Best Cam for Stock 350
- Best Cam for 7.3 Powerstroke
- Best Cam for Stock Twin Cam 88
Comparison of Stage 2 Cam to Other Engine Modifications
When it comes to engine modifications, a Stage 2 cam is just one of many options available to you. While a Stage 2 cam can add significant horsepower and torque to your engine, it is important to understand how it compares to other types of engine modifications.
Stage 2 Camshaft vs. Engine Tuning
First, let’s consider engine tuning. Engine tuning involves adjusting various parameters such as fuel mapping, ignition timing, and air/fuel ratios to optimize performance. Proper engine tuning can result in substantial horsepower gains, but it requires specialized knowledge and equipment to do it correctly. Note that its not an either or type of thing.
Engine tuning is typically performed in conjunction with other modifications, such as a Stage 2 cam or high-flow air intake, to get the most power gains.
Check out some our guides on the best tuners for various engines:
- Best Tuner for 7.3 Powerstroke
- Best Tuner for 6.7 Powerstroke
- Best Tuner for 6.0 Vortec
- Best Tuner for 5.4 Triton
- Best Tuner for Dodge Charger
- Best Tuner for 4.6 Mustang
- Best Tuner for Harley 103
Stage 2 Camshaft vs. Performance Air Intake
Another type of engine modification is installing a performance air intake. A performance air intake can increase horsepower by allowing your engine to breathe more easily and efficiently. By increasing the volume of air that can be drawn into the engine, you can improve engine performance and efficiency.
However, the horsepower gains from a performance air intake are typically more modest compared to a Stage 2 cam upgrade. The Stage 2 Cam will definitely give you more horsepower.
Stage 2 Camshaft vs. High Performance Exhaust System
Next, let’s consider installing a high-performance exhaust system. A high-performance exhaust system can increase horsepower by reducing back pressure and allowing spent gases to exit the engine more quickly and efficiently. However, similar to performance air intake, the horsepower gains from a performance exhaust system are also more modest compared to a Stage 2 cam upgrade.
When a Stage 2 camshaft is combined with other modifications such as engine tuning, a performance air intake, or a performance exhaust system, a Stage 2 cam upgrade can provide substantial gains in engine performance and efficiency. Whether you are building a high-performance street machine or a dedicated track car, a Stage 2 cam is a great place to start if you want to maximize your engine’s horsepower and torque. Here are some of the best exhausts for RAM 5.7 Hemi.
Frequently asked Questions about Stage 2 Cams
Do You Need A Tune For A Stage 2 Cam
Yes, a tune is typically required after installing a stage 2 cam in order to optimize the engine performance and prevent any potential issues. The tune adjusts the engine’s fuel, air, and timing settings to match the increased airflow and cylinder pressure that result from the cam upgrade. This helps to ensure that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently, while also maximizing the horsepower gains provided by the cam upgrade.
Note that a proper tune can help to extend the life of the engine and prevent any damage, while an improper tune can result in decreased engine performance and increased wear and tear.
Approximately How Much Does A Stage 2 Cam Cost?
The cost of a stage 2 cam can vary widely depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the brand of the cam and other components that are required for the installation. On average, the cost of a stage 2 cam can range from $500 to $2,500 or more, including the cost of the cam, installation, and tuning.
It is important to keep in mind that the cost of a stage 2 cam can vary greatly depending on the specific needs of the engine, as well as any other modifications that may be required for the installation. In some cases, additional components such as new valve springs, pushrods, or rocker arms may be necessary, which can increase the overall cost of the upgrade.
Why Do Stage 2 Cam Sound Different
Stage 2 camshafts sound different because they change the engine’s sound due to altered valve timing and lift. This changes operating parameters, creating a unique exhaust note and potentially increasing power output. The exact sound difference depends on the camshaft profile, engine displacement, and other factors. For me, it’s like a singing bird. I love it.
Conclusion
Installing a stage 2 cam in your engine results in a noticeable increase in horsepower. The exact amount of horsepower gain varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as other modifications that have been made to the engine. However, on average, a stage 2 cam can add anywhere from 20 to 50 horsepower units. This boost in horsepower can make a significant difference in the overall performance of the vehicle, providing faster acceleration, improved passing power, and a more engaging driving experience.
While the increase in horsepower is a significant advantage, it is important to remember that there are other factors to consider when installing a stage 2 cam. These modifications can affect other aspects of the engine, including valve timing, valve lift, and engine RPM. As a result, it may be necessary to make additional modifications to the engine to ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently.
