What is the difference between the different cam makers out there? Wouldn't a cam of the same specs be the same no matter who it came from? I'm only talking about cams here, not any other internal or external engine parts.

 

Every cam manufacturer has their unique style of lobe designs. Because most use polynomial design programs there are too many of combinations available to count. Two cams that look identical by the cam spec card can be radically different. The best way to know what you have compared to something else is to completely profile the camshaft lobes (lift per every 1 cam degree). However, most people do not have access to the equipment so, this is what I recommend. Look at the advertised duration (must be at the same lift i.e. 0.006" or 0.020"), the duration at 0.050", and the duration at 0.200". The lower the advertised duration and the higher duration at 0.200" with the same duration at 0.050" shows a more aggressive profile. This is not perfect as it ignores the very important nose design but it will get you close. I hope that this helps.

Chris