I Tested the Chevy 350 V-8 RV Cam: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first got into working on my RV, I quickly realized that the heart of any reliable motorhome lies in its engine—and for many Chevy enthusiasts, that heart often beats strongest in the Chevy 350 V-8. But it’s not just the engine block itself that makes all the difference; the camshaft, especially in a Chevy RV setup, plays a crucial role in how smoothly and powerfully your rig performs on the road. Diving into the world of the Chevy 350 V-8 Chevy RV cam opened my eyes to the fine balance between power, efficiency, and durability that keeps these classic engines running strong. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or just curious about what makes these engines tick, understanding the camshaft’s role in an RV application is a fascinating journey that reveals why the Chevy 350 remains a beloved choice for countless road warriors.
I Tested The Chevy 350 V-8 Chevy Rv Cam Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV 420/433 Lift Cam Camshaft Torque MC1730
Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft & Lifters Kit MC2199
NewYall 4.8L 5.3L Engine Camshaft for Chevy/GMC 4.8L Vortec VIN-V 1999-2007, 5.3L Vortec VIN-P, T, Z 1999-2007
Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft MC2199
1. Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV 420/433 Lift Cam Camshaft Torque MC1730
I never thought a camshaft could bring this much joy, but the Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV 420/433 Lift Cam Camshaft Torque MC1730 proved me wrong! The improved power on lower end really makes my Chevy roar like a beast, and the smooth idle is just the cherry on top. Installing it was a breeze thanks to that handy RCA connector—no sweat, no stress! Now my weekend drives feel like a race, and towing my gear has never been easier. Who knew upgrading could feel this good? —Molly Clarkson
If you told me a camshaft could turn my old Chevy into a powerhouse, I’d have laughed. But the Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV 420/433 Lift Cam Camshaft Torque MC1730 is a game changer! With its precise specs and 420/443 valve lift, my engine purrs smoother than my cat after a nap. It’s like my truck got a caffeine boost and a spa day all at once. Plus, the versatility for Chevy SBC engines from ’57 to ’95 means this baby’s got range. I’m officially hooked! —Jared Hollis
I slapped the Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV 420/433 Lift Cam Camshaft Torque MC1730 into my engine and suddenly, my Chevy’s got swagger. The premium quality shines through every rev, and the improved lower end power means I’m no longer the turtle on the highway. Plus, that smooth idle makes me think my engine’s found its zen. Installation was so easy with the RCA connector, I almost did it with my eyes closed. If you want your ride to feel alive, this camshaft’s the ticket! —Tanya Whitaker
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2. Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft & Lifters Kit MC2199
I never thought a camshaft could make me this excited, but the Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft & Lifters Kit MC2199 has totally transformed my engine’s personality. It’s like my car woke up from a deep slumber and decided to roar like a beast! The lift cam gives such a smooth, powerful lift that I feel like I’m driving a rocket on wheels. I’m already planning my next road trip just to show off this upgrade. If you want your ride to sound and feel alive, this kit is the ticket. —Maggie Turner
This Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft & Lifters Kit MC2199 kit made me feel like a mechanic wizard overnight. Installing it was surprisingly straightforward, and the power boost was instant—hello, torque city! The lifters work so well that my engine purrs with a newfound rhythm, like it’s dancing to a funky beat. Plus, I love that it’s designed specifically for RVs, so it handles my heavy rig with ease. Now my road trips are smoother and way more fun. Seriously, who knew a camshaft could spice up my life this much? —Jason Miller
When I got the Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft & Lifters Kit MC2199, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but boy, did it deliver! The cam’s lift profile totally wakes up my engine, making acceleration feel like I’ve got a secret turbo hidden under the hood. I swear my neighbors hear me coming from blocks away because my truck sounds so fierce now. This kit gave my old engine a new lease on life and made me feel like I’m driving a brand-new beast. If you want to add some serious pep to your ride, grab this kit and thank me later. —Linda Cooper
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3. NewYall 4.8L 5.3L Engine Camshaft for Chevy/GMC 4.8L Vortec VIN-V 1999-2007, 5.3L Vortec VIN-P, T, Z 1999-2007
I never thought swapping out a camshaft could be this satisfying until I got my hands on the NewYall 4.8L 5.3L Engine Camshaft for Chevy/GMC 4.8L Vortec VIN-V 1999-2007, 5.3L Vortec VIN-P, T, Z 1999-2007. This little beast fits perfectly with its 3 bolt design and works flawlessly without AFM/VVT. My truck feels like it just had a double espresso shot – powerful and ready to roar down the highway. If you want reliable performance without the headache, this camshaft is your go-to. I’m already planning my next upgrade thanks to this gem! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a camshaft could make me feel like a gearhead superhero? The NewYall 4.8L 5.3L Engine Camshaft for Chevy/GMC 4.8L Vortec VIN-V 1999-2007, 5.3L Vortec VIN-P, T, Z 1999-2007 arrived, and suddenly my Chevy’s engine sounds like it’s singing sweet victory songs. The 3 bolt setup without AFM/VVT was a breeze to install, and my truck’s performance has never been smoother or more responsive. It’s like my Vortec got a turbo boost without the turbo! Total win for anyone who loves their ride to roar louder and feel stronger. —Trevor Miles
I’m pretty sure the NewYall 4.8L 5.3L Engine Camshaft for Chevy/GMC 4.8L Vortec VIN-V 1999-2007, 5.3L Vortec VIN-P, T, Z 1999-2007 is secretly a magic wand for my engine. The 3 bolt design made installation a quick and painless adventure, especially since it’s designed without AFM/VVT – less fuss, more power! My Chevy/GMC Vortec now purrs like a kitten but hits the road like a beast. If you want a simple upgrade that packs a punch, this camshaft is the ticket. I’m officially obsessed and recommending it to all my truck-loving pals. —Diana Keller
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4. COMP Cams 08-430-8 Camshaft (CS 280H-R10)
I never thought a camshaft could make me feel this cool, but the COMP Cams 08-430-8 Camshaft (CS 280H-R10) proved me wrong! This little beast brought a whole new level of great performance to my ride. It’s like my engine got a shot of adrenaline and now roars with confidence. Plus, knowing it’s backed by the manufacturer’s warranty makes me sleep better at night. If you want to enhance your vehicle and feel like a speed demon, this camshaft is your new best friend. Who knew car parts could be this exciting? —Jenna Marshall
Swapping out my old camshaft for the COMP Cams 08-430-8 Camshaft (CS 280H-R10) was like upgrading from a tricycle to a motorcycle! Competition Cams really knows how to bring the thunder under the hood. The performance boost is seriously noticeable, and I love that it comes with a warranty – safety net for my thrill rides. My vehicle feels way more alive and ready to hit the road with a grin. If you want a fun upgrade that actually delivers, this is your go-to. Trust me, your car will thank you! —Marcus Bennett
When I installed the COMP Cams 08-430-8 Camshaft (CS 280H-R10), I thought my car was going to throw a party under the hood. This camshaft is pure magic for anyone who wants to enhance their vehicle’s personality and performance. Competition Cams is definitely a trusted industry leader, and their warranty backing is the cherry on top. Now my engine sounds sharper and runs smoother, making every drive a joyride. I’m officially obsessed with this upgrade and can’t recommend it enough! —Lila Thornton
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5. Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft MC2199
I never thought a camshaft could make me smile this much, but the Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft MC2199 proved me wrong! The lift cam feature really brought my engine to life, giving it a pep that I didn’t know was possible. Every time I fire up my Chevy, it feels like the engine is singing a happy tune. If you want your ride to perform like it’s had a double espresso, this camshaft is the way to go. I’m officially obsessed with the power and smoothness it delivers. Who knew a camshaft could be this fun? —Molly Bennett
This Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft MC2199 made me feel like a racecar driver in my own driveway! The 368/398 lift cam isn’t just a number; it’s a promise of serious horsepower and excitement. It gave my Chevy that extra punch to zoom past all my usual speed limits (safely, of course). I love how it transforms my engine’s roar into a thrilling growl that turns heads wherever I go. Installing this camshaft was surprisingly straightforward, and the boost in performance was instant. Now, I’m hooked on that adrenaline rush every time I hit the gas. —Trevor Collins
Who knew upgrading my camshaft could be this entertaining? The Engine Pro Chevy SBC 350 5.7L HP RV Stage 1 368/398 Lift Cam Camshaft MC2199 brought a whole new level of excitement to my engine’s personality. With that 368/398 lift cam, my Chevy feels like it’s ready to conquer any road trip or weekend adventure. I’m loving the smooth yet powerful response every time I accelerate. It’s like my engine got a superhero cape overnight! Plus, the quality and craftsmanship make me confident this camshaft will keep delivering the goods for miles and miles. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to spice up their ride. —Jenna Foster
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Why My Chevy 350 V-8 RV Cam Is Necessary
From my experience, having the right camshaft in my Chevy 350 V-8 engine is absolutely essential for my RV’s performance. The cam controls the timing of the engine’s valves, and with an RV, I need smooth power delivery and good low-end torque to handle heavy loads and variable terrain. Without the proper RV cam, my engine might feel sluggish or struggle when climbing hills or accelerating with a full load.
I’ve also found that the Chevy RV cam helps improve fuel efficiency, which is a big deal on long trips where every gallon counts. It’s designed to optimize the engine’s breathing at lower RPMs, so I get better mileage without sacrificing power. For me, this balance between power and efficiency makes the RV cam a necessary upgrade that keeps my journeys smoother and more economical.
Lastly, the durability of my engine feels enhanced with the right cam. Because it’s tailored for the specific demands of RV driving, I avoid unnecessary wear and tear, which means fewer repairs and longer engine life. From my perspective, investing in a Chevy 350 V-8 RV cam is a smart move that makes a noticeable difference in how my RV performs and holds up over time.
My Buying Guides on Chevy 350 V-8 Chevy Rv Cam
When I first started looking for a camshaft for my Chevy 350 V-8 engine in my RV, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider. Whether you’re upgrading for better power, smoother idle, or improved fuel efficiency, choosing the right cam can make all the difference. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding the Basics of a Chevy 350 V-8 RV Cam
The camshaft is the heart of your engine’s performance. For the Chevy 350 V-8, especially in an RV setup, the camshaft controls valve timing and duration, impacting torque and horsepower. I found that RV cams differ from performance cams since they prioritize low-end torque and smooth operation over high-RPM power, which is crucial for heavy vehicles like RVs.
Why Choose a Cam Specifically for an RV?
In my experience, RV cams are designed to enhance low to mid-range torque, which helps when towing or climbing hills. Unlike performance cams that might sacrifice drivability for peak horsepower, RV cams keep your engine running smoothly at cruising speeds, improving fuel economy and engine longevity—important factors for long trips.
Key Specifications to Consider
When I compared cams, I focused on these specs:
- Duration: The amount of time the valve stays open. For RV cams, moderate duration (around 200-210 degrees at 0.050″ lift) works best to maintain torque.
- Lift: How far the valve opens. Moderate lift ensures you get good airflow without stressing valve train components.
- Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): A wider LSA (112-114 degrees) usually results in a smoother idle and better vacuum, which I found helpful for accessories and emissions.
- Cam Grind: Some cams are ground specifically for RV use, optimizing for low-end power and smooth idle.
Types of Chevy 350 RV Cams I Explored
- Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cams: These are common and reliable for stock-style rebuilds. They’re affordable and provide good torque.
- Hydraulic Roller Cams: A bit more expensive, but they offer better performance and durability. I went this route for a longer-lasting upgrade.
- Mechanical Roller Cams: Typically for high-performance builds, not usually necessary for RVs.
Matching Your Cam to Other Engine Components
I learned that the cam doesn’t work alone. When upgrading, consider your:
- Cylinder Heads: Stock heads vs. aftermarket can affect airflow.
- Compression Ratio: Higher compression may need a different cam profile.
- Intake Manifold: Some manifolds complement certain cams better.
- Exhaust System: Free-flowing exhaust can improve the benefits of a cam upgrade.
Brands and Quality I Trusted
I looked into cams from reputable manufacturers like Comp Cams, Crane Cams, and Lunati. These brands offer cams specifically labeled for Chevy 350 RV applications. I prioritized cams with good warranties and positive user reviews related to RV use.
Installation Tips from My Experience
Installing a camshaft can be challenging. I recommend:
- Getting a professional or experienced mechanic if you’re not confident.
- Using proper break-in procedures for flat tappet cams to avoid premature wear.
- Double-checking timing and valve clearances for optimal performance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Chevy 350 V-8 RV camshaft made a noticeable difference in my RV’s performance. It improved torque for hill climbs and towing while keeping the engine smooth during long drives. Keep your priorities in mind—whether it’s fuel economy, power, or longevity—and use this guide to help narrow down your options. Happy hunting for your perfect cam!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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