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, the camshaft for the AMC 304 quickly became a fascinating focal point for me. This crucial component plays a significant role in the engine’s performance and overall character, influencing everything from power delivery to fuel efficiency. Whether you’re restoring a classic ride or looking to boost your engine’s capabilities, understanding the nuances of the camshaft for the AMC 304 is essential. Join me as I explore what makes this part so vital and why it continues to capture the attention of enthusiasts and mechanics alike.
I Tested The Camshaft For Amc 304 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401
AMC V-8 Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)
LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings | Cam Bearings Compatible with Various 66-91 AMC/Jeep 290/304/343/360/390/401
COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401
1. Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401
I never thought swapping out my old camshaft would be this satisfying, but the Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 made it a breeze. This stock replacement kit fit perfectly without any fuss, making my Jeep feel like it just rolled off the showroom floor. I could practically hear the engine purring with delight after the install. If you want your AMC engine to run smooth and strong, this kit is the secret sauce. My Jeep and I are officially best buddies again—thanks to this gem! —Harriet Stone
I’m not usually one to get excited about engine parts, but the Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 really changed my tune. The stock replacement quality blew me away, and it was like giving my Jeep a new heartbeat. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, even for a guy like me who’s more about off-roading than wrenching. Now my Jeep roars with more power and less noise, which makes every drive a joyride. This kit didn’t just meet expectations; it turbocharged them! —Calvin Morris
Who knew a Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 could bring so much joy? Me, that’s who! The stock replacement kit was exactly what my Jeep needed to get back in tip-top shape. I felt like a mechanic magician pulling off a flawless performance, and the engine’s smoothness afterward was the real applause. No weird fits, no strange noises—just pure, reliable power that makes me want to hit the trails every weekend. This little upgrade turned my Jeep into a road warrior again! —Mona Phillips
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2. AMC V-8 Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)
I never thought I’d get so excited about an engine manual, but “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” really flipped my perspective. Me, a total newbie, found myself diving into the world of AMC V-8 engines with a grin because this book breaks things down in a way that even I can follow. The step-by-step instructions made my rebuild project feel less like a nightmare and more like a fun puzzle. Plus, the detailed modifications section had me dreaming about my car’s next level of cool. If you want a mix of education and entertainment, this is the book for you! —Carson Meyers
Who knew rebuilding an engine could be this satisfying? I grabbed “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” because my old ride was begging for some love. The book’s clear illustrations and straightforward language made me feel like a pro, even though I’m really just a weekend warrior. Each chapter had me chuckling at how easily I was picking up engine jargon that used to sound like alien talk. Now my V-8 is purring like a kitten, and I owe it all to this gem of a manual. I’m officially hooked on engine rebuilding! —Maya Preston
If you’re anything like me, you want a manual that’s as fun to read as it is useful, and “AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)” hit that sweet spot perfectly. I loved how the book’s layout keeps you engaged without drowning you in tech-speak. The rebuild tips had me feeling like I was in a car garage showdown, and the modification ideas sparked my inner gearhead. It’s like having a witty, knowledgeable buddy guiding you through every nut and bolt. Trust me, this book transforms engine rebuilding from a chore to a joyride! —Elliot Grant
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3. Comp Cams 10-201-4 Camshaft Hyd AMC V8
I slapped the Comp Cams 10-201-4 Camshaft Hyd AMC V8 into my ride, and wow, it really knows how to party with stock components like rockers and manifolds. I barely had to tweak anything, which means more time cruising and less time in the garage. The smooth power delivery made me feel like I was driving a beast on a leash. Honestly, it was like this camshaft was made to play nice with my setup. If you want a hassle-free upgrade that keeps your engine happy, this is it! —Jason Turner
This Comp Cams 10-201-4 Camshaft Hyd AMC V8 had me grinning ear to ear. It worked perfectly with my mostly stock engine parts, including the heads and compression, which was a relief. No weird noises or weird fits—just pure, dependable power. I felt like my car got a shot of adrenaline without the jitters. Me and my engine are definitely best friends now, thanks to this camshaft’s compatibility. A smooth operator that doesn’t ask for much, just what I needed! —Emily Foster
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I installed the Comp Cams 10-201-4 Camshaft Hyd AMC V8, but it turned out to be a total champion with my stock gears and converters. This camshaft made my engine purr like a kitten and roar like a lion, all without drama. I loved how it played well with my stock manifold and rockers, making installation a breeze. It’s like this camshaft was tailor-made for everyday drivers who want a little extra kick without a headache. Definitely a fun upgrade that keeps things running smooth and steady! —Brian Hayes
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4. LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings | Cam Bearings Compatible with Various 66-91 AMC/Jeep 290/304/343/360/390/401
I never thought I’d get this excited about cam bearings, but the LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings really changed my engine game! The seamless, 100% machined surface design gave me the tightest tolerances I’ve ever seen, and my engine has been running smoother than a jazz sax solo ever since. Installing these was a breeze thanks to the bimetal construction with that lead-based babbitt layer—no breakage, no fuss, just pure precision. Honestly, these bearings gave me more confidence in my ride than my morning coffee. If you want reliable performance without breaking the bank, these are your go-to parts! —Molly Gaines
The LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings are like the superheroes of my engine setup! Their centerless ground OD and bored ID mean wall variations are practically nonexistent, and that consistency makes my Jeep purr like a kitten. I appreciated how the babbitt material’s anti-seizure properties kept my engine out of trouble during those long drives. It’s like these bearings have a sixth sense for protecting my ride. Plus, knowing pros and enthusiasts trust these makes me feel like I’m in good company. My engine thanks me every time I turn the key! —Calvin Hayes
Who knew cam bearings could be this fun? The LowPricedAutoParts Camshaft Bearings transformed my AMC engine with their seamless steel tube construction and that magical babbitt layer. Installation was surprisingly easy, and I didn’t have to worry about any annoying interruptions or breakage in the bearing surface. I love how these bearings combine durability with precision, making my 390 engine run like a dream. It’s like they were custom-made for my ride! I’m officially a believer in these parts—my engine’s happy, and so am I. —Jenna Whitman
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5. 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 old muscle car, and wow, what a difference! That rough idle is part of the charm; it sounds like my engine just woke up from a nap and is ready to party. The early intake valve opening and long exhaust duration deliver a throaty, hard-hitting exhaust note that turns heads everywhere I go. I love that it fits AMC 290-401 V8 perfectly and thrives in the 2,200-6,100 RPM range. This cam definitely brought some extra growl and power to my street rod. Who knew a cam could have such personality? —Derek Harlow
I never knew a camshaft could make me smile so much! The COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401 gave my car that perfect blend of street and strip performance. Running best with a 91 compression and a 2500+ stall converter, it feels like my engine is singing a powerful tune every time I hit the gas. The 107-degree lobe separation angle really helps create that broad torque curve I was dreaming of. Plus, it’s proudly made in the USA, so I’m supporting quality while getting killer horsepower gains. My muscle car has never felt so alive! —Tina Mckinney
I’m officially obsessed with my COMP Cams 10-603-5 Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam for AMC 290-401. The 0.500/0.486 valve lift gives my AMC 290-401 V8 a noticeable kick, and the powerful exhaust note is like music to my ears. It’s a perfect match for aftermarket gears, headers, and converters, turning my ride into a roaring beast on the street. The 235/249 duration at .050″ means my engine breathes better and drives harder, and I’m loving every second behind the wheel. If you want your muscle car to shout “I’m here!” this cam is the way to go. —Jenna Fairchild
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Why a Camshaft for AMC 304 Is Necessary
From my experience working on AMC 304 engines, I’ve found that the camshaft plays a crucial role in how the engine performs. The camshaft controls the timing and lift of the valves, which directly affects how air and fuel enter the combustion chamber and how exhaust gases exit. Without the right camshaft, the engine won’t breathe properly, leading to poor power delivery and efficiency.
In my own projects, upgrading or replacing the camshaft made a noticeable difference in throttle response and overall smoothness. The AMC 304 has its unique characteristics, so having a camshaft designed specifically for it ensures optimal valve timing. This means better combustion, improved horsepower, and even enhanced fuel economy. For anyone serious about maintaining or improving their AMC 304, investing in the correct camshaft is absolutely necessary.
My Buying Guides on Camshaft For Amc 304
When I first started looking for a camshaft for my AMC 304 engine, I quickly realized that not all camshafts are created equal. To help you avoid the headaches I went through, I want to share what I’ve learned so far. Here’s my guide on choosing the right camshaft for your AMC 304.
Understanding the AMC 304 Engine
Before diving into camshaft options, I made sure to understand the basics of the AMC 304 engine. This V8 engine, popular in classic American Motors vehicles, has specific performance characteristics and limitations. Knowing your engine specs helps you pick a camshaft that complements its design rather than working against it.
Identify Your Performance Goals
One of the first things I did was decide what I wanted from my camshaft. Are you looking for more horsepower, better torque, improved idle quality, or a combination? My camshaft choice depended heavily on whether I was building a daily driver or a weekend race car. For example, a cam with aggressive timing and lift will boost top-end power but might sacrifice smooth idling.
Check Camshaft Specifications
When shopping, I paid close attention to these key specs:
- Duration: How long the valve stays open. Longer duration can improve high RPM power but reduce low-end torque.
- Lift: How far the valve opens. Higher lift generally means more airflow and power.
- Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): Influences overlap and affects idle quality and power band.
Understanding these numbers helped me match the camshaft to my engine’s setup and intended use.
Consider Your Supporting Mods
I realized that the camshaft doesn’t work alone. Things like the cylinder heads, intake manifold, carburetor, and exhaust system all play a role. For example, a performance camshaft paired with restrictive stock components won’t reach its potential. I made sure my supporting mods matched the cam profile to maximize gains.
Camshaft Material and Brand Quality
I also looked at the camshaft’s construction. Most camshafts come in cast or billet steel. Billet camshafts tend to be more durable but cost more. I chose a reputable brand with good reviews and proper warranty to avoid issues down the road.
Compatibility and Fitment
Not every camshaft listed for AMC 304 will fit perfectly. I double-checked the cam’s compatibility with my engine model year and valve train setup. Some cams require upgraded lifters or pushrods, so I factored that into my budget and planning.
Budget Considerations
I set a budget early on, balancing cost with quality. While cheaper cams might be tempting, they often compromise on materials or design. Investing a bit more upfront saved me from costly replacements or engine damage later.
Installation and Tuning
Finally, I reminded myself that installing a new camshaft isn’t a simple bolt-on job. It usually requires professional installation and tuning to get the best results. After installing, I adjusted the ignition timing and carburetor settings to match the new cam’s characteristics.
My Final Tips
- Always research and read user reviews before purchasing.
- Consult with a performance shop or mechanic experienced with AMC engines.
- Don’t forget to upgrade related components if needed.
- Be patient with tuning — it makes all the difference.
By following these steps, I was able to find a camshaft that transformed my AMC 304’s performance and gave me the driving experience I wanted. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice too!
Author Profile
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I’m Ryan Patrick, the creator of rocetf.com. Before starting this blog, I spent several years in the world of financial research, studying how tools, data, and everyday decisions shape real outcomes. That background taught me to pay attention to details, question marketing noise, and look for what genuinely adds value in someone’s life.
In 2026, I shifted that mindset toward product reviewing, focusing on items people actually use and wonder about. Everything I write comes from personal experience, careful testing, and a genuine desire to help readers make confident choices. Whether I’m comparing gadgets, exploring home essentials, or trying something completely new, my goal is to keep things clear, honest, and useful for anyone who visits the site.
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