[Bimmerman325i]

Hi all,

I was looking at VAC's site for Schrick cams for the S54, and would love some clarification from those who have/have researched the options.

Option 1: 288/280, 11.6/11.6mm lift, apparently ~ CSL specs. Clicky for Info. VAC says these are their "aggressive street" setup, allow VANOS to be retained, but they highly suggest Schrick's DLC cam followers.

Option 2: 288/280 "High Lift", 12.9/12.58mm lift.

VAC says these are Race Only parts....my question is why. Wouldn't higher lift at the same duration equal better engine breathing and a broader/better powerband? Or are they only not recommended for street due to idle/emissions issues? These cams require Schrick/aftermarket valve springs and retainers along with the DLC rocker arms, per Schrick's data sheet. (Click for .pdf of cams, go to page 7) Both cams have .25mm valve clearance, so I don't think that is an issue.


Anyone have any ideas or experience? Is the higher lift cam with the same duration streetable at all (given a CF airbox, exhaust, etc)?

[crochetg]

I too would love to know the answer to this. Also, what are affordable tuning options for someone with this cam setup who lives in Arkansas? i would love to drive up to VAC for a tune but its out of the question. Has anyone done this mod with recorded power gains? i know of a build with 304/296 and higher compression making 347whp but i dont want to delete the vanos.

[RedM3/4]

my guess would be the longevity of the valve springs and retainers aren't suitable for the street. race engines get rebuilt regularly, so less of a concern. I think the valve clearance is the lash. the higher lift HAS to be closer to the top of the piston. combined with longer duration, there could also be an assumption of race pistons, not sure. why don't you just call VAC?

ADS

[ac427]

I think you may lose some day to day drivability with these, i am not sure how 'cammy' these are but it would be good to hear from someone who has fitted them.

[duvinclunk]

You don't hear too much CAM talk here. I'm interested to know the same as I'd love a set.

[brakelate]

I had the Sunbelt cam kit installed in my previous e36 M3. It's a great mod for the track duty car but for a car with limited DD, it's a PITA.

I would have to keep my foot on the gas at intersection stop to keep the car from shutting off. This is even with the raised idle rpm tuned. I only drive on the street to get to the track but I can't imagine driving it for DD. If you are planning to track the car, highly recommend it. If not, I'd get a blower kit instead for the street.