High-Performance Cams & Valvetrains & How To Build Big-Inch Ford Small Blocks (2 Book Set)

Experience the Power of High-Performance Cams & Valvetrains: Theory, Technology, and Selection

Camshafts are the driving force behind any four-stroke engine, serving as both the coach and conductor. Whether you're dealing with a classic flathead or a cutting-edge Formula 1 machine, the performance of your engine hinges on the precise timing and operation of its valves. While valvetrain configurations may vary across applications, the fundamental principles remain constant. That's why this book delves into the language, setup, dynamics, energy, and pressure aspects of valvetrains, offering insights applicable to engines ranging from sub-15-hp go-karts to 500-plus-hp street beasts and modern 1,500-plus-hp NHRA Pro Stock monsters.

In High-Performance Cams & Valvetrains: Theory, Technology, and Selection, Billy Godbold—a former farm kid turned physicist—shares his extensive quarter-century of experience working with valvetrains at renowned companies like Comp Cams, Lunati, Crane Cams, and Edelbrock. Drawing from his collaborations with professional teams in NASCAR, NHRA, road racing, dirt track racing, offshore racing, and land speed racing, Billy provides a unique perspective on valvetrain systems. Through his lighthearted and analogy-rich approach, this book simplifies complex concepts without compromising essential details.

Featuring specific configurations and applications, High-Performance Cams & Valvetrains equips you with practical techniques and examples for optimizing camshafts and valvetrains in various scenarios. Whether you're working with intakes, headers, superchargers, turbochargers, fuels, carburetors, or modern EFI applications, this book offers invaluable guidance. Whether you're building a classic hot rod (Chevy, Ford, Chrysler, and more), a modern performance machine (LS, Hemi, Coyote, or Godzilla), or a competition engine (road racing, circle track racing, or drag racing), you'll discover how to modify your valvetrain system effectively to unlock the maximum potential of each component, ultimately helping you achieve your unique goals.

Why Choose High-Performance Cams & Valvetrains?

1. Unlock the Complexity: Cams and valvetrains can be daunting subjects, but this book simplifies the functionality of these intricate systems, making them easy to comprehend.
2. Expert Author: Written by Billy Godbold, an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience working for top camshaft and valvetrain creators in the automotive industry, this book offers unmatched expertise and insights.
3. Visual Learning: Packed with hundreds of charts and graphs, High-Performance Cams & Valvetrains provides a visual feast, helping you grasp every aspect of selecting the right camshaft for your vehicle.

About the Author

Billy Godbold's journey began on a rural Mississippi farm, where his love for science and internal combustion engines took root. Combining these passions, he pursued a Master of Science degree in physics from Florida State University. Throughout his career, Billy has collaborated with legendary figures like Glidden, Lingenfelter, Jenkins, Pink, and Elliot, eventually becoming a trusted consultant for engineering-focused NASCAR teams and original equipment manufacturers.

Have you been dreaming about a little extra displacement for your Ford?

By increasing the bore and stroke of your current engine, you can add those cubic inches without the hassle of switching to a big block. George Reid thoroughly explains the concept of building a stroker, paying special attention to the effect that increasing the bore and stroke have on the engine as a whole. With this information, you'll be better able to tailor your heads, cam, intake manifold, carburetor, and exhaust system to get the most out of the extra cubes. Also included is a complete guide to factory head and block castings, as well as aftermarket block and head guides, so you can choose exactly the right parts for your project. This book is the definitive guide for building a big-inch Ford small block, complete with four engine buildups ranging from 331 to 408 cubic inches.