Hyd Roller Vs. Solid Roller Cam?

Question

I have a 383 SBC with a hyd roller cam installed... and I want to change over to a solid roller cam. Can I reuse the Hyd Roller lifters or do I need to change them out for the Solid Rollers and why?

Answer 1

You have to change them out also-- different cam profile and require a different roller.. Also you will have to swap out the push tubes, and most likely the rocker arms (they need to be adjustable rockers or adjustable push tubes may work for a while, but the treads have a tendency of failing after awhile). then you will need to figure out what ratio for the rockers depending on your configuration. Stick with the hydraulic lifters---they float at higher rpm (can't pump up with oil) so you may kill a lifter- they are a good safeguard. Why ,I like solid they require more maintenance, over head adjustments, and when they over speed things bent and break. Also there are easier and cheaper ways of getting 15 horsepower

Answer 2

A hydraulic roller cam is more suitable for street applications. A solid roller cam is more so for drag racing. Solid rollers allow for higher lift which allows more air and fuel to flow into the combustion chamber. But the problem with high lift camshafts is that the valves may come into contact with the piston as it moves up and down. If there isn't enough clearance between the piston and the valves, you'll be bending valves which is not good. For a street rod, a hydraulic roller cam is your best option. Not only do they operate smoothly, they also provide greater reliability and longer life.

Answer 3

There's no reason to completely toss your hydraulic roller setup unless you plan to spend a ton on lower end parts (rods) and a high dollar crankshaft. Nowadays GM makes some serious roller hydraulic lifter parts. With the correct springs, screw in studs, and a tie bar on top the motor will be equipped to rev more than you'll ever need on the street. 7,000 rpm with factory hydraulic rollers is clearly attainable. Both Crane and Comp Cams make other great hydraulic asymmetrical camshaft roller equipment.

In all honesty you or anybody else should not turn a 3.75 striker that hard. The object of added stroke is to make a stump pulling fool out of it. If you think along those lines you'll be able to pass the motor on to your kids.

Answer 4

you,ll have to change them out,because they are exactly what they say they are, hydraulic lifters,solid lifters don't use oil pressure to keep them built up.one bad things about solid lifters in a small block they will make a valve come down and damage a piston or bend a valve it they over heat ,seen it happen a few times,but again it all depends on how hot it gets it can also happen if it over revs,like when you miss a gear at high rpm,s,this is why most people prefer hydraulic lifters ,you can swap this out if you want to but for the sake of the engine ,if it were me id stay with hydraulic lifters ,i got a nice looking 350 out behind the shop that used to run solid lifters in it now it s good for a boat anchor,good luck with it.