How to Calculate Cam Lift with 1.7 Rockers
When it comes to performance upgrades for your vehicle, one popular modification is installing 1.7 rockers on the camshaft. This can increase the lift of your camshaft, resulting in improved engine performance and horsepower. But how do you calculate the cam lift with 1.7 rockers? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to determine the lift of your camshaft with 1.7 rockers.
What are Rocker Arms?
Rocker arms are components in an engine that act as a lever to open and close the intake and exhaust valves. They are connected to the camshaft and pushrods, transferring the motion of the camshaft to the valves. Rocker arms come in different ratios, such as 1.5, 1.6, or 1.7, which determine how much the valve opens in relation to the camshaft’s lift.
Understanding Cam Lift
The lift of a camshaft refers to how far the camshaft raises the valve off its seat. This lift is measured in inches or millimeters and has a significant impact on engine performance. The higher the lift, the more air and fuel can enter the combustion chamber, resulting in increased power output.
Calculating Cam Lift with 1.7 Rockers
When you install 1.7 rockers on your camshaft, you are effectively increasing the lift of the camshaft by 1.7 times. To calculate the cam lift with 1.7 rockers, you will need to know the lift of the camshaft without rockers and the ratio of the rockers.
Here’s the formula to calculate the cam lift with 1.7 rockers:
Cam Lift with 1.7 Rockers = Camshaft Lift x Rocker Arm Ratio
For example, if your camshaft has a lift of 0.500 inches without rockers, the cam lift with 1.7 rockers would be:
0.500 inches x 1.7 = 0.850 inches
Therefore, with 1.7 rockers, the lift of your camshaft would be 0.850 inches.
Benefits of Using 1.7 Rockers
Installing 1.7 rockers on your camshaft can provide several benefits, including:
- Increased lift: 1.7 rockers can increase the lift of your camshaft, allowing more air and fuel to enter the combustion chamber for improved engine performance.
- Improved valve timing: The increased lift can also result in better valve timing, which can enhance power delivery and efficiency.
- Enhanced horsepower: With the increased lift and improved valve timing, you can experience a boost in horsepower and torque output.
Considerations when Using 1.7 Rockers
While installing 1.7 rockers can provide performance benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Valve train compatibility: Not all engines are compatible with 1.7 rockers, so it’s essential to consult with a professional or do thorough research before making the upgrade.
- Tuning: Changing to 1.7 rockers can affect engine tuning, so adjustments may be necessary to optimize performance.
- Clearance: The increased lift from 1.7 rockers may require modifications to ensure proper clearance between components.
Conclusion
Calculating the cam lift with 1.7 rockers is essential for determining the performance gains of this modification. By understanding the formula and considering the benefits and considerations of using 1.7 rockers, you can make an informed decision on whether this upgrade is right for your vehicle. Remember to consult with experts or professionals if you have any doubts or questions about installing 1.7 rockers on your camshaft.
