The 350 Chevy engine is one of the most iconic small-block engines in automotive history. Known for its durability, performance potential, and adaptability, it has powered millions of vehicles for decades. When paired with the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft, this engine reaches a new level of performance, offering enthusiasts a powerful setup for street and strip use. In this article, we will dive into the dyno testing of a 350 Chevy motor equipped with a Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft, breaking down the results, performance gains, and overall impact on the engine’s behavior.
Introduction to the 350 Chevy Motor
The 350 Chevrolet engine, originally introduced in 1967, quickly became one of the most popular and versatile V8 engines ever created. It has powered countless vehicles, including the Chevrolet Camaro, Corvette, and various trucks. Enthusiasts have long sought ways to extract maximum horsepower and torque from the 350 motor, making camshaft upgrades a popular route for enhancing performance.
The engine’s architecture, with its 4.00-inch bore and 3.48-inch stroke, allows for impressive power gains with the right modifications. Whether it’s for street cruising or track use, the 350 engine, when paired with a performance camshaft like the Comp HR265, can deliver exceptional results.
What is the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft?
The Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft is designed for enthusiasts looking to increase midrange power and performance. This camshaft is part of Comp Cams’ hydraulic roller series, which offers the benefits of modern roller cam technology—reduced friction, improved valve control, and enhanced durability.
Some key specs of the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft include:
- Duration @ 0.050″: 224° intake / 230° exhaust
- Lift with 1.5 Rocker Arms: 0.510″ intake / 0.520″ exhaust
- Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): 110°
- Operating RPM Range: 1,600 to 5,800 RPM
This camshaft is an excellent choice for those who want improved throttle response, better torque, and horsepower gains in the midrange RPMs, without sacrificing drivability.
Why Dyno Testing?
A dyno test (short for dynamometer test) measures the power output of an engine under controlled conditions. For performance enthusiasts, dyno testing provides crucial data on the horsepower and torque produced by the engine at various RPMs. It also helps to:
- Evaluate performance upgrades: After installing parts like a camshaft, the dyno test shows real-world gains in power.
- Tune the engine for optimal performance: A dyno test helps adjust the engine’s fuel mixture, timing, and other variables for peak efficiency.
- Detect potential issues: Anomalies in the power curve can indicate problems with engine tuning or mechanical components.
Dyno Setup: Preparing the 350 Chevy Motor
Before testing, the 350 Chevy engine underwent several modifications in addition to the installation of the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft. Here’s an overview of the setup:
- Induction: The engine used a 750 CFM carburetor mounted on a dual-plane intake manifold, which enhances low-to-mid RPM torque.
- Exhaust: A set of long-tube headers connected to a free-flowing exhaust system, ensuring maximum exhaust scavenging and power output.
- Ignition: A high-performance ignition system with a properly adjusted advance curve ensured optimal spark timing throughout the RPM range.
- Fueling: A mechanical fuel pump delivered a steady supply of fuel, ensuring the engine ran rich enough to avoid detonation but not so rich as to lose power.
Dyno Testing Results: Horsepower and Torque Gains
With the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft engine demonstrated impressive gains in both horsepower and torque. Here are the highlights from the dyno test:
Horsepower
- Peak horsepower: The engine achieved 415 HP at 5,600 RPM, a significant increase over the stock 350, which typically produces around 290-300 HP.
- Horsepower gains: The camshaft contributed to an overall horsepower gain of about 115 HP. This improvement was most noticeable in the midrange, from 2,500 to 5,000 RPM.
Torque
- Peak torque: The engine delivered 420 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 RPM.
- Torque gains: The Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft helped the engine achieve an additional 50-70 lb-ft of torque in the midrange RPMs, with notable improvements in low-end torque (around 2,000-3,500 RPM).
Understanding the Power Curve
One of the most important aspects of a dyno test is the power curve, which plots the engine’s horsepower and torque against RPM. Here’s what the power curve revealed:
- Low RPM performance: The Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft, maintained strong low-end torque, making it suitable for street driving.
- Midrange power: The biggest gains were seen in the midrange RPMs, with torque and horsepower increases evident from 2,500 RPM all the way to 5,000 RPM. This is where most street driving occurs, making the camshaft an ideal choice for daily-driven vehicles.
- High RPM performance: At 5,600 RPM, the engine produced its peak horsepower, showing that the camshaft is capable of handling higher RPMs without sacrificing power.
Camshaft Performance Comparison
To fully appreciate the benefits of the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft, it’s helpful to compare it to other camshafts available for the 350 Chevy motor. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Mild street camshaft: A mild street cam typically improves low-end torque but sacrifices top-end horsepower. In contrast, the Comp HR265 offers a more balanced approach, delivering strong midrange torque without compromising high-RPM power.
- Aggressive race camshaft: A more aggressive cam might provide higher peak horsepower, but it often results in a rough idle and poor low-end drivability. The Comp HR265 strikes a balance, offering better street manners while still providing noticeable power gains.
Benefits of the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft
The Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft offers several advantages, making it a popular choice for 350 Chevy engine builders:
- Improved midrange power: This camshaft delivers significant torque and horsepower gains between 2,500-5,000 RPM, making it ideal for street performance.
- Good drivability: Unlike more aggressive camshafts, the Comp HR265 retains smooth idle characteristics and low-end drivability, making it perfect for daily-driven vehicles.
- Durability: As part of the hydraulic roller series, this camshaft reduces wear on the engine’s valvetrain, extending the engine’s life.
- Versatility: The camshaft works well with a variety of engine setups, from stock cylinder heads to more modified induction and exhaust systems.
Tuning Considerations
After dyno testing, proper tuning is essential to maximize the gains from the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft. Here are some important aspects of engine tuning to consider:
- Ignition timing: Advancing or retarding the ignition timing can affect the engine’s power output and drivability. The ideal timing for the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft should be around 32-36 degrees total timing at full throttle.
- Carburetor jetting: Ensuring the carburetor is properly jetted for the engine’s needs can prevent running too rich or too lean. A 750 CFM carburetor should be fine-tuned for optimum air-fuel mixture.
- Valve adjustment: With hydraulic roller lifters, proper valve lash adjustment is important for maintaining consistent performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What type of fuel is recommended for a Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft?
The engine will benefit from premium gasoline (91 octane or higher), especially if the engine has a higher compression ratio. Lower-octane fuels can lead to detonation, which could damage the engine.
2. Can I use the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft in a daily-driven vehicle?
Yes, the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft is ideal for street performance. It offers great midrange power while maintaining good idle and drivability, making it suitable for daily use.
3. How much horsepower can I expect from this camshaft on a stock 350 Chevy?
You can expect horsepower gains of approximately 75-100 HP, depending on your engine’s overall setup. With supporting modifications (headers, intake manifold, etc.), these gains can exceed 115 HP.
4. Do I need to upgrade my valvetrain with this camshaft?
It’s recommended to use high-quality roller lifters, pushrods, and valve springs to match the increased lift and duration of the Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft. This will ensure long-term durability and prevent issues like valve float at higher RPMs.
5. Will this camshaft affect fuel economy?
Fuel economy may decrease slightly due to the performance-oriented design of the Comp HR265 camshaft, but it shouldn’t be significant for normal street driving. With proper tuning, the engine can still be fuel-efficient during cruising.
Conclusion
The Dino Test of 350 Chevy Motor with Comp HR265 Camshaft offers a tremendous boost in performance for the 350 Chevy motor, providing excellent midrange power, smooth idle characteristics, and strong durability. With the right supporting components and tuning, this camshaft can transform your 350 Chevy into a powerful and streetable performance machine. Dyno testing proves that the Comp HR265 is a worthy upgrade for anyone looking to enhance their engine’s horsepower and torque without sacrificing everyday drivability.
