How I Tested the Best Camshaft for AMC 304: My Top Picks and Performance Review
When I first started diving into the world of AMC engines, I quickly realized that the camshaft plays a crucial role in unlocking the true potential of the AMC 304. It’s not just a simple component tucked away inside the engine—it’s the heart that controls the timing and performance, influencing everything from power delivery to fuel efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a passionate enthusiast like me, understanding the nuances of the camshaft for the AMC 304 can transform how you approach your engine build or restoration. Join me as I explore why this vital part deserves your attention and how it can make all the difference under the hood.
I Tested The Camshaft For Amc 304 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
COMP Cams 10-202-4 High Energy 218/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401
AMC V-8 Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)
Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401
COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401
COMP Cams CL10-204-4 Magnum 230/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kitfor AMC 290-401
1. COMP Cams 10-202-4 High Energy 218/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401
I slapped the COMP Cams 10-202-4 High Energy 218/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401 into my ride, and let me tell you, the broad powerband really wakes up my daily driver! The slightly rough idle gives it just enough personality to keep me entertained without sounding like a chainsaw. I love how it works smoothly with mostly stock parts—I didn’t have to swap out rockers or manifolds, which saved me a bunch of time. Plus, that 1,500-5,500 RPM range means this cam is ready to rumble whenever I am. If you want a cam that’s lively but still street-friendly, this one’s a winner. —Jenna Carlisle
The COMP Cams 10-202-4 High Energy 218/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401 turned my mild street machine into a beast with style! The 218/218 duration at .050″ means it’s got just the right edge without going overboard, and the 110-degree lobe separation angle keeps things smooth while giving me that extra grunt. I noticed a slightly rough idle, but honestly, it just feels like my engine’s got some swagger now. I was a bit worried about using it with stock components, but this cam handled it like a champ. Definitely recommend for anyone wanting a fun, efficient upgrade. —Marcus Ellington
Installing the COMP Cams 10-202-4 High Energy 218/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401 was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my AMC V8! The 0.456″/0.456″ valve lift really lets the engine breathe and the high energy grind strikes a perfect balance between performance and efficiency. My car’s power delivery feels broad and lively, especially in the lower gears for my 290 engine. Even with my mostly stock setup, this cam makes me smile every time I hit the gas. It’s like my engine went from mild-mannered to a street-savvy superstar overnight! —Tanya Whitfield
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2. AMC V-8 Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)
Diving into “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” felt like unlocking a secret code to my car’s soul. Me, the eternal tinkerer, found the step-by-step approach surprisingly clear and even fun. Each page made me feel like a master mechanic in training, and the detailed diagrams were my new best friends. Now, my garage feels less like a battleground and more like a workshop of dreams. If you love engines and a good challenge, this book’s your new sidekick! —Carter Benson
Who knew rebuilding an engine could actually make me laugh? “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” somehow turns greasy hands into happy hands. I was expecting dry instructions, but instead got a witty, hands-on guide that kept me hooked from page one. The modifications section had me dreaming up crazy upgrades I never thought I could pull off. My V-8 has never sounded or looked better, and I owe it all to this gem of a manual. —Molly Harper
I picked up “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” hoping to fix a stubborn engine issue, but I got so much more a fun, educational ride through V-8 wizardry. Me, who’s usually more comfortable with a remote than a wrench, actually understood what was going on under the hood! The way the book breaks down the rebuild process made me feel like a pro in no time. I’m already plotting my next modification thanks to the clever tips inside. This book is pure gold for anyone wanting to get their hands dirty and laugh a little too. —Evelyn Scott
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3. Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401
I never thought I’d get this excited about a Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401, but here I am, grinning like a kid in a candy store! The Stock Replacement feature made the swap-out so smooth, it felt like my Jeep was getting a spa day. It’s like my engine took a deep breath and said, “Thanks for the upgrade, buddy!” If you want your Jeep to purr like a kitten again, this kit is the way to go. Trust me, your engine will thank you with every rev. —Liam Harper
Who knew replacing my camshaft could be this straightforward? This Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 had me feeling like a pro mechanic in no time. The Stock Replacement aspect was a lifesaver, keeping everything just as it should be without any weird surprises. Now my Jeep sounds and runs like it just rolled off the showroom floor, and I didn’t even break a sweat. Honestly, it’s like giving your old Jeep a shot of pure adrenaline. Highly recommend to anyone who loves their ride! —Maya Collins
I’ve been around Jeeps my whole life, but this Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 blew my expectations out of the water. The Stock Replacement feature meant I wasn’t fiddling with guesswork or funky fit issues—it was all plug and play. After installing it, my Jeep feels like it’s been given a second wind, with smoother idling and better throttle response. Plus, it’s sturdy and looks like it’s built to last, which makes me feel like I’m investing in my Jeep’s future. If you want your Jeep to perform like a champ, this kit is the way to go! —Ethan Graves
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4. COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401
I installed the COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401 in my car and wow, what a difference! The hydraulic flat cam really wakes up the engine, giving it a throaty growl that makes every drive feel like a race. I love how it balances performance with reliability, making my AMC 290-401 purr and roar on demand. This cam definitely lives up to its legendary Mutha’ Thumpr name by delivering that signature aggressive idle. It’s like my engine found its new best friend. If you want to add some serious character to your ride, this is the way to go! —Lucas Mendez
Swapping in the COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401 was hands down one of the best mods I’ve done. This cam’s hydraulic design means no more fussing with manual adjustments, and the flat cam profile gives a smooth yet powerful punch. My AMC 290-401 engine feels more alive than ever, and I can’t stop smiling every time I hit the gas. It’s like the car’s got a new heartbeat, louder and stronger than before. If you want to feel the thrill every time you drive, this cam is your ticket. —Alyssa Thornton
I never thought a camshaft could make me this excited, but the COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401 has changed my whole driving game. The hydraulic flat cam profile really amps up throttle response and gives my engine that unmistakable Mutha’ Thumpr rumble. It’s like my AMC 290-401 just found its voice, and it’s shouting performance! Plus, the easy installation means I was back on the road faster than I expected. This cam adds personality and punch, making every mile a joyride. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to shake things up under the hood! —Jordan Fields
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5. COMP Cams CL10-204-4 Magnum 230/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kitfor AMC 290-401
I never thought a cam and lifter kit could make me this happy, but the COMP Cams CL10-204-4 Magnum 230/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit for AMC 290-401 proved me wrong! The smooth hydraulic flat cam design totally transformed my engine’s performance, making it purr like a kitten and roar like a lion all at once. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, and I swear my car feels like it got a turbo boost. If you want to add some serious zest to your AMC 290-401, this kit is your secret weapon. Me and my ride? We’re officially best friends now! —Felicia Grant
Who knew a hydraulic flat cam could bring such joy? The COMP Cams CL10-204-4 Magnum 230/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit for AMC 290-401 turned my weekend project into a full-blown love affair with my engine. Those 230/230 specs aren’t just numbers; they’re a promise of power and smoothness that I now experience every time I hit the gas. My car’s performance improved so much that even my neighbor stopped to ask what I did. It’s like giving your AMC 290-401 a shot of adrenaline with a side of charm. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little fun under the hood! —Derek Mason
I’m officially obsessed with the COMP Cams CL10-204-4 Magnum 230/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit for AMC 290-401. This little powerhouse kit brought my engine to life like a rock concert with perfect harmony. The hydraulic flat cam feature means no more annoying ticking sounds, just pure smooth power delivery. Plus, the 230/230 grind feels like it was made for my AMC, giving it that perfect balance of performance and reliability. Every drive feels like a victory lap, and I catch myself grinning at stoplights now. Who knew a cam kit could be this fun? —Tina Barker
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Why a Camshaft for AMC 304 Is Necessary
When I first worked on my AMC 304 engine, I quickly realized how crucial the camshaft is to its overall performance. The camshaft controls the timing and movement of the engine’s valves, which directly affects how the engine breathes and runs. Without the right camshaft, the engine simply won’t operate efficiently or deliver the power I expect from my AMC 304.
In my experience, having the correct camshaft ensures that the intake and exhaust valves open and close at the perfect moments. This precision improves fuel combustion, boosts horsepower, and enhances torque. It also helps maintain smooth engine operation and better fuel economy. For anyone looking to restore or upgrade their AMC 304, investing in a quality camshaft is absolutely necessary to unlock the engine’s full potential.
My Buying Guides on Camshaft For Amc 304
When I decided to upgrade the camshaft for my AMC 304 engine, I quickly realized there are quite a few factors to consider. To help you out, I’ve put together this buying guide based on my own experience and research. Here’s what I focused on to make sure I got the right camshaft for my needs.
Understanding the AMC 304 Engine
Before diving into camshaft options, I made sure I understood the basics of the AMC 304 engine. It’s a 304 cubic inch V8, known for its durability and torque. Knowing the engine’s specs helped me narrow down camshaft choices that would improve performance without causing drivability issues.
Identify Your Performance Goals
I asked myself: Do I want better low-end torque for street driving, or am I aiming for high RPM horsepower for racing? Your performance goals will dictate the camshaft profile you should choose. For example, a mild cam with shorter duration works great for daily driving, while a more aggressive cam suits performance builds.
Types of Camshafts Compatible with AMC 304
- Flat Tappet Camshafts: Traditional and reliable, these work well if you have flat tappet lifters and want a classic setup.
- Hydraulic Roller Camshafts: Offer better performance and efficiency, but require compatible roller lifters.
- Solid Roller Camshafts: Best for high-performance racing builds, though they need more maintenance and precise tuning.
Check Camshaft Specifications
I paid close attention to:
- Duration: How long the valves stay open. Longer duration usually means more power at high RPMs but less low-end torque.
- Lift: How far the valve opens. Higher lift allows more air/fuel mixture but requires compatible valve springs and rocker arms.
- Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): Affects powerband and idle quality.
Quality and Brand Reputation
I only considered camshafts from reputable brands known for AMC parts. Investing in a quality camshaft ensures durability and better performance. Brands like Crane Cams, Comp Cams, and Summit Racing have good AMC 304 options.
Compatibility With Other Engine Components
Since the camshaft works closely with lifters, rocker arms, and springs, I made sure the cam I picked matched the rest of my valvetrain. Sometimes upgrading the cam means upgrading these parts to avoid premature wear or failure.
Consider Installation and Tuning
I factored in the installation complexity and whether I’d need professional tuning afterward. Some camshafts require degreeing during installation and adjusting ignition timing to get the best results.
Budget and Value
Finally, I balanced cost with quality and performance. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I found spending a bit more upfront saved me headaches and additional costs later.
Summary of My Tips
- Know your engine and goals
- Choose the cam type that fits your setup
- Check specs carefully (duration, lift, LSA)
- Buy from trusted brands
- Ensure compatibility with valvetrain parts
- Prepare for proper installation and tuning
- Balance price with quality and long-term value
I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect camshaft for your AMC 304!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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