i've been wondering about this for a long time now. what is the difference between the aftermarket cam stages???? (i.e.-stage 1, stage 2, stage 3). i wanna get a set for my JDM H22A (not type s) but i don't know where to start or what i should get. like what do all the numbers mean? any help would be great. thanx.
-steve

 

The stages refer to how agressive the cam profile is. Usually the higher the number, higher lift and longer duration. Like my stage 3's

 

so would u say that it would be good for me to go in the middle with stage 2's? i want something not extreme and that has low maintainence. would this just be a simple bolt-in procedure?? thanx

 

yeah stage 2 is pretty good for street.. most dont recommend stage 3 for street some are Drag only.. depending on which cams you want to go with..

its not exactly a bolt on but its not too hard either just time consuming.. heres a rough idea on the install::

you need:
-Torque specs on the bolts, and the removal sequence -- off the service manual

-you need to take off your distributor
-make sure both camgears are set to TDC
-take off your valve cover
-take off upper&lower side plastic cover/take out auto tensioner/slip off timing belt
-take off camshaft plates and holders
-take off camshafts
-install new camshafts
-apply engine assembly lubricant to new shafts
-reinstall everything according to the reassmbly sequence and torque specs
-do valve adjustment to specified clearances

-take her out for a spin and enjoy

 

Stage 3 requires springs and retainters. stage 3 is gonna idle like **** probably. the numbers are valve lash valve overlap, lift, duration and so on... i hear crower stage 2 are decent for VTEC. i got Gude for my h23 they kick ***! got 8hp from them at the wheel untuned..

 

crower makes a set now with the stage 2 idle lobes, and the stage 3 VTEC lobes..... talk about a mean engagement

 

Look into Jun cams. No, I don't actually know from experience, but I've found some dynos around the 'net comparing them to Skunk2, Toda, Crower, etc. in B18's and H22's. Upgrade Motoring did tell me by e-mail that the valvetrain must be upgraded, but they didn't give me any specs (been searching though). www.h22a.org has lots of posts of cam questions, and Jun cams in particular. Hope this helps.


[Modified by heihachi, 3:57 AM 10/26/2002]

 

thanx sooo much for the help! this is great. now what kind of tuning would i need to do with say......the crower stage 2 cams??? once i put them in is that it?? or is there something else i should do? thanx again for ur help.
-steve

 

just checking one last time. anyone have an answer to my last question? about tuning?? thanx again.

 

You're going to want to tune your air/fuel ratio and cam timing. If you're looking to order the crower cams soon you could order them through me @ Import Replacement Parts.