PRI 2013: Crane Cams Now Providing Custom Tool-steel Grinds

Crane Cams will machine a camshaft core in any size and configuration, then finish grind the lobes to any spec according to the engine builder.

“We’re doing one-off cams all the time,” says Chase Knight of Crane Cams. “We can do any journal size, lobe layout and with or without a distributor gear.”

All the cams are manufactured from tool steel and designed for solid roller lifters. They can also be made to compensate for different cylinder-bank angles, firing order and lifter locations. Finally, Crane can rifle drill the core to reduce weight.

“We have done a flat-tappet cam for a Ford Windsor,” adds Knight. “But that required very special, very expensive DLC-coated lifters.”

Some of the custom applications that Crane has built custom tool-steel cams for include GMC inline-6 and a 394ci Oldsmobile.

“Some engines you just can’t get cams for anymore,” reminds Knight. “But most of the orders are coming in for Chrysler and Chevy drag cars.”

Prices for custom billet cams range from $900 up to $1,700. So far the largest cam made has sported 70mm bearing journals, but the company can certainly go larger.

About the author

Mike Magda

Mike Magda is a veteran automotive writer with credits in publications such as Racecar Engineering, Hot Rod, Engine Technology International, Motor Trend, Automobile, Automotive Testing Technology and Professional Motorsport World.
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