Camless Engines

[95Vert383AOD]

So i hear this is supposed to be the new future for a while now. No Timing belts or Cam shafts. Solenoid actuated valves that are computer controlled. I figure that a non crank powered valve train has got to be worth at least 20-30hp on a performance v8.

But the real question is.....

When this technology is commonplace how difficult will it be to get a valve actuator retro kit on a push rod motor? I think between using a crank sensor signal and injector pulses that something like this would be possible in a SBF with a actuator controller unit. Something like this could give an old engine a power band that looks even better the new 5.0

What do you guys think?

Chris

 

[VibrantRedGT]

I know efficiency and technology is great but I'm still keen on good ol' push rod V8's. Back in the day to watch an old Rx7 with a 1.2 Liter Rotary engine spool to 12,000 rpm and run 9's wheels up was the day I knew push rods would be instinct.

 

[srtthis]

F1 cars are this way now and are limited to 18K rpm if i remember correctly and have the ablity to turn 24K

 

[N8Dogg98]

But the real question is.....

When this technology is commonplace how difficult will it be to get a valve actuator retro kit on a push rod motor? I think between using a crank sensor signal and injector pulses that something like this would be possible in a SBF with a actuator controller unit. Something like this could give an old engine a power band that looks even better the new 5.0

What do you guys think?

Chris

I'd think an entire new set of cylinder heads would need to be purchased. It seems like a clearance and engineering nightmare to try and make room for an actuator connected to a valve w/o a valve spring given the fact that the existing heads already had provisions for valve springs, seals, and rockers. However, with a new set of heads that had mounting bosses cast for the actuators then I don't see why it wouldn't work to simply replace the heads. All you'd need to do is figure out how to seal up the pushrod holes in the block, remove the cam and block off the place at the front of the engine where the cam had existed previously.

EDIT: Oh yeah, you'd also need to have an ECU capable of making the actuators fire in the correct order and time.

 

[87AODGT]

just leave the cam in there to hold oil pressure. you'll need something to turn that oil pump shaft anyway

 

[revhead347]

I don't think there are any huge advantages to choosing a pushrod engine for this. There are massive advantages to having electronic valves. One being that it won't need a huge battery and starter anymore. You could run your starter off a much smaller battery and starter that would likely last forever. Ford has been working on this for decades on a 2.3L 4 banger, but unfortunately they can't figure out to get rid of the valve clicking noise. It also requires alternating current, or so they say. Which really isn't that big of a deal, you just have to tap into the alternator prior to the rectifier. I could go on and on about this topic, but I'll keep it quick. It's a long way off, and most likely you will end up modifying a V8 engine that comes with electronic valves.

Kurt

 

[sixt9coug]

Help guys, I just bought a new cam and I went to install it but it doesn't fit. What's wrong?