GM V-6 Camshaft Question

[91GranSport]

Does GM use roller or flat-tappet camshafts on their OHV V-6 engines? I'm curious about what type of camshafts they use on their 2.8 and 3.1 MPFI, 3100 and 3400 SFI, and the 3800 TPI and 3800 Series II V-6.

 

Also, what is the main difference in performance and durability between a hydraulic camshaft and a solid (mechanical) camshaft?

 

BTW: I did a search on Google as well as the forums and I can't seem to find detailed info on this. Thanks.

[Robby1870]

2.8/3.1 use a flat tappet and 3100/3400 use a roller cam.

 

Hydraulic cams/lifters pump oil up to the valve train, through the lifters then through the pushrods up to the rockers. They provide for good oiling, dont think much performance is gained from them.

 

Robby

[91GranSport]

Thanks dude, 24 views and only one person answered. At least I know someone around here knows his shit.

 

BTW: Do you know what type of cam is used on the 3800 TPI and 3800 Series II V-6? Thanks dude.

 

2.8/3.1 use a flat tappet and 3100/3400 use a roller cam.

 

Hydraulic cams/lifters pump oil up to the valve train, through the lifters then through the pushrods up to the rockers. They provide for good oiling, dont think much performance is gained from them.

 

Robby

[The Burning Rom]

The series II also uses a roller cam I'm not sure what the series I uses though...I don't know much about that engine. :oops:

[99RegalGS]

I pretty sure the 3800 switched to roller in the late 80's early 90's.

[99RegalGS]

According to this a roller cam was first used in 1986 in the FWD engines.

http://www.gnttype.org/general/v6hist.html

[91GranSport]

Thanks for the added info guys!

[badprix]

Hydraulic cams (flat-tappet or roller) are more dependable and solid cams (solid lifters/solid rollers) make more power. Most of the old musclecars used solid cams and lifters.