Description
The camshaft is the heart of an engine’s valve train, controlling when and how far the valves open and close. Precisely timed to the crankshaft by a chain, belt, or gears, its lobes determine valve lift and duration—key factors in airflow and performance. Some engines use pushrods and rocker arms to transfer motion, while modern overhead cam designs mount the camshaft on the cylinder head for greater efficiency. High-performance engines feature increased lift, longer duration, and optimized lobe separation for maximum power. Cam timing—the relationship between the crankshaft and camshaft—plays a crucial role in defining an engine’s power band. Today’s engines use variable valve timing to adjust cam timing on the fly, delivering the best mix of power, efficiency, and smoothness. In short, the camshaft is more than a moving part—it’s the driving force behind engine performance.