The Chevrolet 454 engine is part of the company’s big-block series.
It boasts a decent 230 HP, which is nothing earth-shattering but is enough for everyday usage. Some users want to maximize the performance of their engines.
While there are several different paths that you can take, the one that is advised and recommended the most is replacing the camshaft.
One replacement can get you big gains in terms of performance. This article will be focusing on the best cam for stock 454. So, without any further ado, let’s get straight into it!
6 Top Rated Stock 454 Cams Comparisons
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | EDITOR'S RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
TOP PICK  | 9.7 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 9.5 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 9.1 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
BEST BUDGET  | 8.8 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.6 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.2 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Comp Cams Xtreme Marine Hydraulic Flat Cam
History repeats itself, yet again, in this article. Comp Cams has been taking the first spot on every single article where I aim to find the top cams for various engines.
The case is the same here. Their product offerings are so great that other competitors cannot even come close.
Don’t believe me? You can check out what this Comp Cams Xtreme Marine Hydraulic Flat Cam has to offer and decide for yourself.
One thing that makes Comp Cams suitable for most buyers is that it provides various buying options.
You can choose from the camshaft only, a set containing the camshaft and the lifter, and a K-Kit.
This allows users to choose the one that is most suitable for them. The kit also offers you valve springs in the box, so you won’t have to get new ones for this camshaft.
With most camshafts on the market looking to maximize the engine’s performance, Comp Cams took a unique approach that the majority of your readers will love.
The manufacturer claims that this camshaft is perfect for people looking to get good fuel economy while improving the engine’s performance.
The camshaft also has a very decent operating range, from 1000 to 5000 RPM; most of you will love how this camshaft will sound and operate.
The increased horsepower will surely make your everyday rides more fun. If you are a racer, then the output will surely be appreciated by you.
Perhaps the most attractive feature of this camshaft is that it is compatible with stock exhaust systems. As the title of the article says, we will be focusing on the stock 454 engine.
The stock exhaust is quite restrictive. Well, you won’t have to worry about getting it changed if you decide to get this amazing camshaft.
Although this is uncommon for Comp Cams, the company must investigate this issue to ensure that it will not happen in the future.
- Can choose from various options
- 1000 to 5000 RPM working range
- Compatible with stock exhaust systems
- Guaranteed increase in horsepower
- Missing parts
Knowing Comp Cams, I already know that this issue is not widespread.
If I were you, I definitely would not take this as the factor that would decide if the camshaft is worth buying or not.
2. Comp Cams Thumpr Hydraulic Flat Cam
Arriving in second place is yet Another Camshaft from the Same Company.
Comp Cams is incomparable to any other brand. This flat camshaft is a part of the manufacturer’s thumpr lineup.
You may have guessed from the name that this series is more performance-oriented when compared to the previous camshaft.
Let’s see just how good it is!
This camshaft was designed for usage in 1800 to the 5600-rpm range. This is quite decent and may be suitable for most people.
If it is not, the manufacturer offers options with higher RPMs. They can go up to 6200, which is more than enough for most people.
Before you ask, yes, the company does offer these camshafts in three different variations. You can get the camshaft only or with the lifters.
You can also choose the option of a K-Kit, which includes springs for installing. That is a true all-in-one package for the engine.
Let’s talk about the sound!
I know that many of your readers are looking for the performance enhancement of a camshaft, but I also know that you will be considering the engine sound too when you buy it.
The combination of an early opening of the intake valve and the long duration of the exhaust opening creates that aggressive note that we all want and love to hear.
The company recommends that the camshaft be used with aftermarket converters.
The reason for this is that the stock ones are not designed to be compatible with the new camshaft.
This does not mean that they will not work. It means that you won’t be able to utilize the full potential of your engine.
It is more probable that the latter was the cause of the issue. Still, Comp Cams must check this issue to ensure that it won’t happen to future buyers.
- Excellent engine sound
- Available in different options
- Noticeable performance gain
- Made in the USA
- Damaged on arrival
After writing about the company on several occasions, I can assure you that this was an isolated scenario.
The camshaft itself is great and will keep you satisfied for the years to come.
3. Lunati Voodoo Hydraulic Flat Cam
I could fill this entire list with products from Comp Cams, but that would be unfair to brands like Lunati as it makes stellar quality cams.
Let’s take this Lunati Voodoo Hydraulic Flat Cam, for example. Although it has very few ratings, it still is an astonishing product.
You should take a look at its offerings to determine if it’s suitable for you. Unlike Comp Cams, Lunati offers this product in only one variation.
The box includes the lifters. I think this was a good decision from the brand, as it is always advised to get the lifters replaced whenever you change the camshaft.
As this camshaft focuses on maxing out the performance of your engine, its RPM range starts from 1800 and goes up to 6200.
If you are a street racer, then you will definitely fall in love with it.
The manufacturer claims that all of the company’s Voodoo series delivers the highest area under the curve than any other camshaft manufacturer.
I cannot verify the fact, but if it is true, then the camshaft should be able to outperform the Comp Cam ones in some regards.
Now, let’s talk about performance!
This camshaft promises to improve the performance of your engine in all regards. I am talking better throttle response, non-existent acceleration delay, and better fuel efficiency.
Yes, you read that right. The special thing about Voodoo cams is that they do not affect the vacuum of the vehicle a lot.
So, the fuel consumption of the vehicle will remain the same while providing you with that additional HP.
So, no matter the high-performance application you choose, this camshaft is the one to go for if you want no compromises.
That one customer had nothing to say but positive things about this camshaft. So, you should not have to worry about anything.
There is a slight risk because the product has not been tested extensively, which means that you won’t know how it will perform in the long run.
- Supports up to 6200 RPM
- The greater area under the curve than all competitors
- Guaranteed improvement in HP
- Improved throttle response
- Fewer ratings
Just like Comp Cams, Lunati makes products that can be trusted blindly. You are at very little risk if you choose to order from them.
The chances are that you will be very impressed with the camshaft, just like the one user who was kind enough to leave feedback.
4. RaceMax Solid Flat Camshaft
If you want to try out something new, I have got just the thing for you. There may be a small proportion of you readers who like to live their lives on the edge.
If you really want to risk it, then you should try out this RaceMax Solid Flat Camshaft.
I have never heard of the manufacturer before, and the chances are that you haven’t either. On paper, the camshaft seems to be exceptionally solid.
Let me explain what it has to offer!
This cam is part of the company’s Crane RaceMax series. This series is focused on making the lobe as aggressive as possible, so you can get the performance you want.
It is perfect for vehicles that are used for racing and other intense purposes. We are here to discuss a camshaft and not the series.
Well, if you are a bracket racer, then this camshaft has been made for you.
The company guarantees improvements in HP and torque. Yes, that’s right. You will be able to maximize the engine’s performance by installing this camshaft.
You won’t ever have to worry about the engine being underpowered. Plus, the camshaft will also give you a rough idle, unlike the stock camshaft.
The stock one aims to make the idle as smooth as possible. Some like that, and some don’t. Well, for those who don’t, you will love this product then.
The final thing that definitely assures customers that the company did not forget to mention that the camshaft is made in the USA.
With one of the strictest quality control laws around, you can rest assured that the final product will be defect-free.
There is always a risk of receiving a faulty product, but the chances are slim to none.
Unlike all other products in this article, this one has no ratings. There have been no buyers, so all you have is the assurance of the company.
There is some risk of the manufacturer not delivering on its promises, but chances are it will be a decent product.
- It gives a rough idle
- Guaranteed improvement in HP and torque
- Made in the USA
- Aggressive lobe
- No ratings
So, if you really want to risk it, then there is no other product to go for than this one. Although the manufacturer has superior claims, let’s hope it delivers on them too.
5. Edelbrock Performer Plus Camshaft Kit
I am about to reach the end of this list, and there are still many products out there that are just too good.
I am going to be honest with you. It was quite a task, placing the camshafts correctly as many perform in a similar fashion.
Regardless, after taking a look at all the factors, the Edelbrock Perfprmer Plus Camshaft Kit was the one that earned the fifth spot on the article.
The company has been showing up frequently on my articles. Its products have impressed me so there is a high chance that you will have the same feeling too.
Moreover, the brand claims that the engine was able to output some impressive horsepower during its testing.
It must be noted that there were other modifications made, such as a new intake and custom cylinder heads.
If you want the exact same modifications, the manufacturer was kind enough to list the part numbers on its website.
The thing about most camshafts is that they tend to sacrifice low-end horsepower in order to gain high-end HP. Although the difference is notable, buyers accept this sacrifice.
This is where Edelbrock was set to make a difference. The company has made sure that there will be plenty of low-end torque with all the gain you want.
With its RPM range starting from 1500 and going up till 6500, you will definitely not want any more performance from the engine for quite some time.
If you were wondering, this camshaft does come with tappet lifters in the box.
So, you will not have to worry about getting ones from somewhere else. This makes the installation and everything much easier and simpler.
With all the products that I have checked out from this manufacturer, this is the only one that does not have any feedback.
- No loss in low-end torque
- Significant HP gain
- Included lifters
- No ratings
As you may have seen in this article, there are many products that do not have a sufficient amount of rating to draw a conclusion.
Well, I assure you that cams like the ones by Edelbrock are good enough that you can buy them without worrying about anything.
6. Comp Cams Hydraulic Roller Cam
Well, if you really don’t want to follow any budget, then I have got just the thing for you. And yes, Comp Cam has taken over half of this list. If that is not impressive, I don’t know what is.
You may be wondering what the reason for the company to earn the last spot on the article is. It is not the performance.
The Comp Cams Hydraulic Roller Cam is great, but the price is something that very few people will agree with. This camshaft is offered in three different RPM options.
From 2400 and all the way up to 7500 RPM, this camshaft is the one to go for if you require such power. This camshaft, unlike all others in this article, is a roller cam.
It is superior to all of them because it has less friction. That allows it to be more efficient than ever. This is the only product in the article in which the company talks about its durability.
Well, when you use steel cores and CNC them, that is definitely something you should tell your customers.
The camshaft, with its incredible build, allows the engine to not only get a throaty sound that we all love, but it also helps in boosting the HP greatly.
With four different lobe patterns, this camshaft is the only one on the market that has made the technology available to the mass market.
The camshaft will provide you with an excellent balance between air and fuel ratio. It can increase the HP by up to 20. That is very impressive.
But it does not end there! There are additional costs as you need new valve train components and cylinder heads. The costs significantly add up.
- Can work till 7500 RPM
- Up to 20 HP increase
- CNC machined steel construction
- Four different lobe patterns
- Expensive
- Requires additional upgrades
If you really want no compromises, then this is the camshaft you should go for. Comp Cams has made a solid product like they always do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How Much More HP Can I Expect With A Cam Upgrade In The 454 Engine?
Although all engines respond positively when there is a replacement of the camshaft, it was surprising that the 454 responded extremely well.
You may be excited but wait till you hear the numbers or read, in this case. Users have reported getting more than a 50 HP gain with the install of a new camshaft. Yes, that’s right.
With the stock engine having a very decent 376 HP, a new camshaft was able to get the number to 428.
This means that you definitely are in for a treat if you choose to install this camshaft.
Q2. How Do I Put A Cam In A Chevy Big Block?
If you did not know, the 454 is a part of the company’s big-block series. It has been designed to push an engine to its absolute limit, hence allowing the stock 454 to reach the 400 HP mark.
Regardless, if you were wondering if the install is possible at home, then, unfortunately, the answer is no.
Installing a camshaft is a difficult process. Perhaps the trickiest part is the reassembly of the engine.
No matter the experience, there is a very low chance that you have all the required tools. It is better to get the job done for you by a mechanic.
The process requires the removal of many core components of the engine. Damaging them could cost you quite a lot.
So, it is recommended to let a professional handle this for you.
Q3. What Will A Bigger Cam Do For My 454 Engine?
Well, if you know the function of a camshaft, then you must definitely know the answer. A camshaft controls how much fuel is sent to the cylinders and how much gases are exhausted.
It manages both to ensure that power requirements will be met and there will be no issue regarding pressure build-up.
So, what will a bigger cam help with?
The answer is simple. It will allow more fuel to be sent at the same time while making the exhaust gases escape much quicker.
A bigger cam will help with performance but may reduce fuel efficiency. The reason for this is that it reduces the vacuum of the engine significantly.
Q4. What Makes The Aftermarket Cam Have A Rough Idle?
If you don’t know what an idle is, well, it is the combination of vibrations and sounds that are produced by the engine when it is turned on but not in use.
The reason for there being a rough idle is because the camshaft has been designed for use at higher RPMs.
Anything below the cam’s dedicated range, and you will get that choppy and rough idle.
Conclusion
Searching for the best cam for stock 454 is not an easy task.
The internet is filled with options, which all claim to be the number one products to buy.
This makes the buying process infinitely harder.
Although a cam cannot damage the engine, you may still be missing out on the complete power of the engine. That is why it is recommended to buy from reputable brands.
If you read through this article, then you may already know the company which outshone its competition. That manufacturer is Comp Cams.
Their products have really impressed me, and the Comp Cams Xtreme Marine Hydraulic Flat Cam is the one to go for if you are looking for a balance between power and efficiency.
I am Tahir Azam, and I have been writing amazing articles for TaxiHack for as long as I can remember. I know everything that is to know when it comes to automobiles and is always on top of industry news and developments. While I am not an expert by any means, I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of many different problems and, of course, their solutions. The articles on our website are some of the best and well-researched content that you will find, and I spend countless hours making sure this remains to be true. This is why I ask you to take your time out and read some of my articles, especially if you find a topic that resonates with you or is something you are looking into. This way, you will find the perfect mix of information and tips on your desired topic. Learn more about Tahir.
