As a car enthusiast, you probably know that the camshaft is a critical component of an engine. It’s responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the valves, which is necessary for combustion to occur. But when it comes to upgrading the camshaft, you may be wondering: what’s the difference comparing Stage 2 vs Stage 3 Cam? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into these two types of camshafts and help you determine which one is right for the engine.
Contents
What is Camshaft?
Before we get into the differences between stage 2 and stage 3 cams, let’s review some camshaft basics. As mentioned earlier, the camshaft is responsible for opening and closing the valves. It does this by pushing on the lifters, which then push on the pushrods, which then push on the rocker’s arms. The rocker’s arms are what actually move the valves.
The profile of the camshaft determines how long the valves are open and closed, as well as how much lift they have. A camshaft with a more aggressive profile will have the longer valve open times and higher lift, which can result in more power. However, a more aggressive camshaft can also lead to a rougher idle and a decrease in low-end torque.
Stage 2 Camshafts
A stage 2 camshaft is a mild to aggressive upgrade over a stock camshaft. It typically has a more aggressive profile than a stock cam, but is not as aggressive as a stage 3 cam. A stage 2 camshaft is designed to provide more power throughout the RPM range, without sacrificing too much low-end torque.
One of the main benefits of a stage 2 camshaft is that it can provide a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque, especially in the mid to upper RPM range. Additionally, a stage 2 camshaft can improve throttle response and acceleration.
Some popular stage 2 camshafts include the Comp Cams XE268H and the Crane Cams Energizer 260H.
Pros of Stage 2 Camshafts
- Provides more power throughout the RPM range
- Improves throttle response and acceleration
- Noticeable increase in horsepower and torque
- Mild to aggressive upgrade over a stock camshaft
- Retains some low-end torque
Cons of Stage 2 Camshafts
- May have a rougher idle than a stock camshaft
- May require upgraded valve springs and other valvetrain components
Stage 3 Camshafts
A stage 3 camshaft is a more aggressive upgrade over a stock camshaft than a stage 2 camshaft. It has a more aggressive profile, with the longer valve open times and higher lift. A stage 3 camshaft is designed to provide maximum power at high RPMs but can sacrifice low-end torque and idle quality.
One of the main benefits of a stage 3 camshaft is that it can provide significant horsepower and torque gains, especially in the upper RPM range. Additionally, a stage 3 camshaft can give engine a more aggressive exhaust note and improved overall performance.
Some popular stage 3 camshafts include the Comp Cams XE274H and the Crane Cams PowerMax 284.
Pros of Stage 3 Camshafts
- Provides maximum power at high RPMs.
- Significant horsepower and torque gains.
- Gives the engine a more aggressive exhaust note.
- More aggressive upgrade over a stock camshaft.
Cons of Stage 3 Camshafts
- Sacrifices low-end torque and idle quality.
- May require upgraded valve springs and other valve train components.
Comparisons Table of Stage 2 VS Stage 3 Cam
To make it easier to compare stage 2 and stage 3 camshafts, we’ve put together a table below:
| Stage 2 Camshaft | Stage 3 Camshaft |
| Mild to aggressive upgrade over a stock camshaft. | More aggressive upgrade over a stock camshaft. |
| Provides more power throughout the RPM range. | Provides maximum power at high RPMs. |
| Improves throttle response and acceleration. | Sacrifices low-end torque and idle quality. |
| Noticeable increase in horsepower and torque. | Significant horsepower and torque gains. |
| Retains some low-end torque. | Gives the engine a more aggressive exhaust note. |
| May have a rougher idle than a stock camshaft. | May require upgraded valve springs and other valvetrain components. |
Choosing the Right Camshaft for the Engine
If you’re looking for a mild to aggressive upgrade over the stock camshaft, a stage 2 camshaft may be the right choice for you. It can provide noticeable power gains throughout the RPM range, without sacrificing too much low-end torque. Additionally, a stage 2 camshaft can be a good choice for daily drivers or street vehicles, as it can provide improved throttle response and acceleration.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for maximum power at high RPMs and have a more performance-oriented vehicle, a stage 3 camshaft may be a better choice. Keep in mind that a stage 3 camshaft sacrifices low-end torque and idle quality, so it may not be the best choice for daily drivers or street vehicles.
Before making a decision, it’s important to consult with a professional mechanic or engine builder who can help to determine which camshaft is right for your specific engine and goals.
Conclusion
Choosing the right camshaft for the engine can be a daunting task, if you understand the comparison of stage 2 vs stage 3 cam, you can make the decision easier. A stage 2 camshaft can provide a mild to aggressive upgrade over your stock camshaft, while a stage 3 camshaft can provide maximum power at high RPMs.