Topic: Retarding Intake Camshaft -- bad idea?
I am refreshing the Mazda KL 2.5 V6 in the racecar, and I am thinking about advancing the cam timing to move the powerband up the rpm range. As I see it, the car is pretty much over 4,000 rpm all the time,
with a 5-speed manual, you are going to downshift if it gets much under that when racing.
The KL engine has about 170hp, there is the KLZE japan version which has 200hp, it is reported
to have a bigger intake cam and peaks at a higher rpm. So I am thinking I can pickup some more power if I make the cam more like the KLZE and retard it, and peak the hp rpm at 7k instead of 6.5k.
This mod is essentially free, just some time to modify the timing pulley.
I suppose I am jealous of the Variable Valve Timing engines and will just go right to the high rpm setting.
Now I know some might say the last thing we need is more hp in Lemons, a bigger fuel tank instead...but some more top speed in the straights makes passing easier, and that can be helpful.
Or its a waste of time? what you think?