Cam Project

Want to Sprint Up Hills in High Gear?

Then Use the Correct Cam in Your Model T!

The Model T Cam Project was started in the late 1990's by several Model T enthusiasts. The research and results of that effort is described on these pages. A January 2011 presentation at the Sunflower Crankers Winter Clinic reviews the project, compares the available cams and described some ongoing work to develop improved cams (click here to download).

The Cam Project resulted in the first production of new Model T camshaft in several decades. After five years of research (see Backgound), the first cams became available in 2001. These are new, computer designed and precision CNC machined Model T camshafts. They have the correct duration for a slow speed engine. This avoids the loss of torque associated with high lift reground camshafts. Since their introduction, roughly 1,000 cams have been manufactured and sold (see Testimonials). Three cam grinds are available:

	Improved Stock Grind - the same duration and lift as Ford's post 1912 grind - 0.250 lift and 220 degrees duration seat-to-seat, 185 degrees duration at 0.050. However, this cam achieves the correct duration at a tappet clearance of 0.010, whereas, the clearance must be set at 0.025 for the stock Model T cam. Consequently, the actual lift is 0.015 greater with this cam. It also has gentle ramps for smooth and quiet operation.
	280 Super-Power Grind - 0.030 more lift and slightly greater intake duration - 224 degrees seat-to-seat and 192 degrees at 0.050. Exhaust duration of 232 degrees seat-to-seat and 199 degrees at 0.050. This cam can be installed without pulling the engine. This is an excellent touring cam.
	Laurel-Roof Performance Grind - a replica of the legendary antique racing cam. 0.310 lift, intake duration 225 seat-to-seat and 197 degrees at 0.050, exhaust duration 245 seat-to-seat and 205 at 0.050. This cam requires notches in the block and 1 1/8 inch lifters. This is the ultimate performance cam for flathead Model Ts

Click on the cam name above for a detailed technical description of each cam. See Simulation/New Cams for the performance you can expect. Background gives some of the background information for the project and some of the motivation for the design and production of the new camshafts. A discussion of Power and Torque for the Model T puts the issue of camshafts in the proper perspective. Cam Basics describes some of the terminology used. Computer simulation of the Model T engine was used to screen numerous camshafts and to predict the performance of the new cams. The simulation results are supported by actual chassis dynamometer testing. The design of the stock 1912+ Model T camshaft and the three new camshafts are also presented.

If you would like to purchase one of these cams, please contact Specialty Motor Cams.

At Tilden Technologies you will find additional information on cam design and a complete history of Ford flathead cams.

Members of the Cam Project are: Fred Houston, Steve Coniff, Larry Sigworth, Bill Stipe and Larry Young. We can be reached by posting a message on the discussion Forum at the Model T Ford Club of America website. Other than Bill Stipe (the cam grinder) no members of the project have or will receive any financial benefit from this project. Our only reward will be the satisfaction of seeing the smiling faces of T owners as they sprint up hills in high gear.

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