Are you a car enthusiast or a professional mechanic looking to get more horsepower out of your engine? If so, you may have heard of 108 and 112 lobe separation angles (LSA) and wondered what they are, how they differ, and which one is best for your engine. In this in-depth article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about 108 vs 112 lobe separation angles, including their key features, pros and cons, comparison table, and our recommendation on which one to choose. So, let’s dive in!
Contents
Key Features of 108 Lobe Separation Angle (LSA)
A lobe separation angle refers to the angle between the intake and exhaust lobes on a camshaft. The 108 lobe separation angle (LSA) is a narrower angle than the 112 LSA, typically ranging from 102 to 108 degrees. Here are some of the key features of 108 LSA:
More overlap: The 108 LSA allows for more overlap between the intake and exhaust valves, which can improve exhaust scavenging and increase low-end torque and mid-range power.
Higher lift: The narrow lobe separation can also allow for higher lift on the intake and exhaust valves, which can further increase airflow and power.
Rougher idle: The increased overlap and higher lift can cause a rougher idle and louder exhaust note, which some people may find desirable for a more aggressive sound.
Pros
- Improved low-end torque and mid-range power.
- Higher lift potential.
- Aggressive exhaust note.
- Can be beneficial for naturally aspirated engines or forced induction setups with low boost.
Cons
- Reduced high-end power.
- Reduced engine efficiency.
- May require more precise tuning to optimize performance.
- Not ideal for high-performance forced induction setups with high boost levels.
Key Features of 112 Lobe Separation Angle (LSA)
The 112 lobe separation angle (LSA) is a wider angle than the 108 LSA, typically ranging from 110 to 114 degrees. Here are some of the key features of 112 LSA:
Less overlap: The wider LSA allows for less overlap between the intake and exhaust valves, which can improve high-end power and efficiency.
Lower lift: The wider lobe separation can limit the lift on the intake and exhaust valves, which can reduce airflow and power.
Smoother idle: The reduced overlap and lower lift can result in a smoother idle and quieter exhaust note, which some people may prefer for a more comfortable ride.
Pros
- Improved high-end power and efficiency.
- Better fuel economy.
- Quieter exhaust note.
- Ideal for high-performance forced induction setups with high boost levels.
Cons
- Reduced low-end torque and mid-range power.
- Limited lift potential.
- Less aggressive exhaust note.
- May not be ideal for naturally aspirated engines or forced induction setups with low boost.
Comparison Table: 108 vs 112 Lobe Separation Angle
To help you compare the features of the CAM LSA 108 and 112, we have provided a comparison table below –
| Key Features | 108 LSA | 112 LSA |
| Overlap | More | Less |
| Lift | Higher | Lower |
| Idle quality | Rougher | Smoother |
| Low-end power | Improved | Reduced |
| Mid-range power | Improved | Reduced |
| High-end power | Reduced | Improved |
| Engine efficiency | Reduced | Improved |
108 vs 112 Lobe Separation Which is Best?
If you have a naturally aspirated engine or a forced induction setup with low boost, the 108 LSA may be a better choice, as it can provide improved low-end torque and mid-range power. However, it may require more precise tuning and may not be suitable for high-performance forced induction setups with high boost levels.
If you have a high-performance forced induction setup with high boost levels, the 112 LSA may be a better choice, as it can provide improved high-end power and efficiency. It may also be a better choice for engines that are primarily used for street driving, as it can provide a smoother idle and quieter exhaust note.
Conclusion
108 and 112 lobe separation angles are important factors to consider when choosing a camshaft for your engine. While the 108 LSA can provide improved low-end torque and mid-range power, the 112 LSA can provide improved high-end power and efficiency. Ultimately, the best lobe separation angle for your engine will depend on your specific setup and performance goals. Be sure to consult with a professional mechanic or engine builder to help you make the best choice for your engine.