pdm-racing vs. JWT camshafts for ka24DE NA rebuild

[sp33dg33k]

I am a noob especially about engine rebuild. My goal is to pass emissions and retain the low end torque BUT also want top end power. Also, I don't want my ECU re-programmed. It seems like pdm-racing camshaft is what I need. Could someone please interpret or explain what I get from the two cams?

Other related questions:1) If I get the pdm-racing, can I still use the JWT adjustable cam sprocket? Or is it specifically designed for JWT cams? What is the advantage and use of having an adjustable sprocket?2) Colt makes the pdm-racing camshafts. Who makes the JWT?

Here are the info for each individual camshafts:PDM-RACING:C.702.S Stage II Cams - Intake 221 duration @.050” .379 lift; (272 advertised duration), .380 lift; Exhaust 231 duration @ .050" lift, (278 advertised duration), .390 lift.These cams are VERY streetable, with no injector or computer upgrades required, and pass the strictest emissions with proper tuning.*This is the link to the dyno with intake, pully, header, and tuning):http://www.pdm-racing.com/products/DOHC ... .htmlPrice - $585 / set

JWT: S1 CAM SET 91-02 KA24DE (RWD ONLY) .390" LIFT / 275 DEG. DUR. GOOD IDLE EXCELLENT MID- RANGE TORQUE. GOOD ALL AROUND SPORT CAM. USE JWT ADJUSTABLE SPROCKETS #AKADE-SPROC FOR TURBO OR TOP END POWER.Additional info I got through email from JWT rep:Makes about 10 more HP and is designed to be used with the factory valve springs and retainers. Lift is .390" duration is 275 degrees.Thank you in advance!--Leon

[InsanityInc]

Neither. They both produce gains of about 5whp peak and really no impressive powerband shifting occurs. You're better off with an exhaust. Cheaper, easier install, and you'll gain more power everywhere.

[InsanityInc]

Oh, and you should be able to use the sprockets with either set. I emailed JWT about the sprockets and they said they would fit the stock cams, so they must fit any cams that the stock sprockets would fit on. The purpose of the cam sprockets is to alter the intake and exhaust opening/closing points. In fact, with sprockets and the stock cams you could probably make significantly better gains than with either 500+ dollar set of cams.

[KADreams]

Go with the PDM Cams. With good tuning they can increase your peak horsepower by about 10. As for the adjustable cam gears, they are essential for a good tune, but are an extreme pain in the ***.

Basically, the cams will smooth out your powerband, increase your peak torque, and move it a tad bit further down in the power band. Remember HP=Torque*RPM/5252. This is where the adjustable cam gears come in. You can move the powerband around with them. To make more peak horsepower, you want to move the torque curve further to the right of the graph because the same torque times more RPMs equals more horsepower. In doing this you also loose low end torque, but because they are adjustable, you can decide how much you are willing to sacrifice. YOU MUST TUNE THESE GEARS ON A DYNO OR THEY ARE POINTLESS! Herein lies the problem.

Imagine having to pull the valve cover, make an adjustment, put it back on, dyno, pull the valve cover, make an adjustment, put it back on, dyno, rinse, repeat until you are satisfied. Adjustable cam gears were originally used on engines with timing belts where this was not a problem.

So in conclusion, if you want all the power you can get, get both the PDM cams and JWT adjustable cam gears. Be prepared to spend an entire day at the dyno.