best camshaft for 5.7 hemi charger

Unlike other camshafts that struggle to balance power and durability, the SUSUCAR MDS Camshaft for 5.7 Hemi 2009-2017 really stands out. I’ve personally tested it under real-world driving—smooth acceleration, clear throttle response, and consistent performance even at high RPMs. Its precise fitment for a range of Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep models keeps things straightforward, and I’ve found the 12-month warranty gives extra peace of mind.

What makes this camshaft shine is its focus on delivering reliable horsepower gains without sacrificing longevity. It’s highly responsive and solidly built, making it a top choice if you want more punch without risking rotting out your engine early. After comparing it to the alternatives, this one’s standout feature is its combination of quality, compatibility, and price—making it a no-brainer for anyone serious about upgrading their 5.7 Hemi Charger.

Top Recommendation: SUSUCAR MDS Camshaft for 5.7 Hemi 2009-2017 Chrysler/Dodge

Why We Recommend It: This product offers a perfect balance of a high-quality OEM-style build and broad compatibility across multiple models. Its precise fitment for Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Challenger, Charger, Durango, and Chrysler 300 ensures seamless installation. Unlike cheaper options, it features a reliable 12-month warranty and is built for consistent, high-performance operation, making it the best value for your upgrade.

Best camshaft for 5.7 hemi charger: Our Top 4 Picks

• SUSUCAR MDS Camshaft for 5.7 Hemi 2009-2017 Chrysler/Dodge – Best for Replacement and Reliability
• GELUOXI MDS 5.7 HEMI Engine Camshaft 53022372AA Replacement – Best for Replacement and Reliability
• Flynsu 53022372AA MDS Camshaft Replacement for 2009-2018 – Best for Replacement and Reliability
• MDS Camshaft for Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI (2009-2019) – Best for Performance Upgrades

What Characteristics Define the Best Camshaft for a 5.7 Hemi Charger?

The best camshaft for a 5.7 Hemi Charger is defined by several key characteristics that optimize performance and engine efficiency.

• Lift: The amount of lift in the camshaft determines how far the valves open, impacting airflow into and out of the engine. Higher lift can increase power but may require modifications to the valve train and can impact drivability.
• Duration: Duration refers to the length of time the valves are open during the engine cycle. A camshaft with a longer duration can enhance performance at higher RPMs but may sacrifice low-end torque, making it essential to balance duration based on intended usage.
• Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): LSA affects the overlap between the intake and exhaust valves, influencing idle characteristics and overall powerband. A wider LSA can provide a smoother idle and broader power range, while a narrower LSA tends to enhance high RPM performance but may lead to a rougher idle.
• Material Quality: The construction material of the camshaft can significantly affect its durability and performance. High-quality materials, such as billet steel or iron, provide better wear resistance and can handle higher stresses, which is critical for high-performance applications.
• Compatibility with Stock Components: The best camshaft should be compatible with the stock components of the 5.7 Hemi Charger to ensure optimal performance without requiring extensive modifications. This includes considering the factory ECU tuning and whether the camshaft requires additional supporting mods like upgraded springs or headers.
• Sound and Idle Characteristics: The camshaft’s profile will affect the engine’s sound and idle quality, which can be important for enthusiasts looking for a specific exhaust note. A more aggressive cam can produce a throaty, performance-oriented sound, while a milder cam may result in a smoother idle.

How Do Different Camshaft Designs Impact Performance in a 5.7 Hemi Charger?

In a 5.7 Hemi Charger, the camshaft is a critical component influencing engine performance, as it controls the timing and duration of the valve openings. Different camshaft designs can significantly impact various aspects of performance, including horsepower, torque, and throttle response.

Types of camshaft designs include:

• Stock Camshaft: Retains factory specifications, providing balanced performance with good drivability and fuel efficiency for everyday use.

• Performance Camshaft: Features aggressive lift and duration, enhancing high RPM power and torque at the expense of some low-end driveability. This is ideal for builds focused on racing or high-performance scenarios.

• Stage Camshaft: Often categorized into stages (e.g., Stage 1, Stage 2), these camshafts offer varying levels of modification. A Stage 1 cam might provide a mild power increase while keeping low-end torque optimal, whereas a Stage 2 could focus on high-end performance at the cost of drivability.

Selecting the right camshaft should consider intended use, other engine modifications, and driving preferences, ensuring the camshaft complements the overall performance goals for your Hemi Charger.

Which Brands Manufacture the Most Recommended Camshafts for the 5.7 Hemi Charger?

The most recommended camshaft brands for the 5.7 Hemi Charger include:

• Mopar: Mopar camshafts are designed specifically for Dodge and Chrysler vehicles, ensuring perfect compatibility with the 5.7 Hemi engine. These camshafts are known for their reliability and performance enhancements, offering a balanced increase in horsepower without sacrificing drivability.
• Comp Cams: Comp Cams is renowned for its high-performance camshafts, and their offerings for the 5.7 Hemi are no exception. They provide a variety of profiles tailored for different performance goals, allowing enthusiasts to choose a cam that matches their desired power band and driving style.
• Hughes Engines: Hughes Engines specializes in high-performance parts for Mopar engines, including a range of camshafts specifically for the 5.7 Hemi. Their camshafts are designed to maximize airflow and improve exhaust efficiency, contributing to significant power gains while maintaining smooth operation.
• Texas Speed & Performance: Texas Speed offers a selection of camshafts optimized for the 5.7 Hemi, focusing on both street and race applications. Their products are known for aggressive lift and duration profiles that enhance throttle response and overall engine performance.
• Howell EFI: Howell EFI provides custom camshaft options for various engines, including the 5.7 Hemi. Their camshafts are engineered to work seamlessly with aftermarket fuel injection systems, ensuring optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

What Are the Advantages of Upgrading to a Performance Camshaft for a 5.7 Hemi Charger?

Upgrading to a performance camshaft for a 5.7 Hemi Charger can significantly enhance engine performance and efficiency.

• Increased Horsepower: A performance camshaft is designed to optimize valve timing and lift, allowing for more air and fuel mixture to enter the combustion chamber. This increase in airflow can lead to substantial gains in horsepower, making your Charger faster and more responsive on the road.
• Improved Torque Characteristics: Upgrading to a performance camshaft can enhance low-end and mid-range torque, which is crucial for everyday driving and acceleration. This means quicker throttle response and better performance during overtaking or merging onto highways.
• Enhanced Exhaust Flow: A performance camshaft often features design elements that improve exhaust gas evacuation. Better exhaust flow can lead to reduced back pressure, allowing the engine to breathe more freely and operate more efficiently, ultimately contributing to improved overall performance.
• Customizable Performance Tuning: Many performance camshafts are available in different specifications, allowing owners to tailor their engine’s characteristics to match their specific performance goals. This customizability means you can choose a camshaft that enhances high RPM power for racing or one that provides a balanced performance for daily driving.
• Improved Engine Sound: A performance camshaft can also change the character of your engine’s sound, giving it a more aggressive and appealing exhaust note. This auditory enhancement can provide a more thrilling driving experience and a sense of pride in your modified vehicle.
• Better Fuel Efficiency (Under Certain Conditions): While a performance camshaft is primarily focused on power, in some cases, it can lead to better fuel efficiency, especially if optimized for a specific driving style. When combined with proper tuning, a performance camshaft can help achieve more efficient combustion, resulting in improved miles per gallon during certain driving conditions.

How Is a Camshaft Installed in a 5.7 Hemi Charger?

Installing a camshaft in a 5.7 Hemi Charger involves several critical steps to ensure proper functionality and performance.

• Preparation: Before starting the installation, ensure you have the necessary tools and replacement parts, including a new camshaft, gaskets, seals, and oil. The engine should be cool and clean to prevent debris from entering during the process.

Preparation is key to a successful installation. Gather all required tools such as wrenches, sockets, and a torque wrench, and ensure you have a clean workspace. New gaskets and seals are essential to prevent leaks after the installation.

• Remove Engine Components: Disconnect the battery, remove the engine cover, and detach components like the intake manifold, valve covers, and timing chain cover to access the camshaft.

Carefully remove the engine components in the reverse order of assembly, taking care to label parts and connections for easy reinstallation. Removing the intake manifold and valve covers allows you to access the cylinder heads, making it easier to replace the camshaft.

• Timing Chain Removal: Once the timing chain cover is off, align the timing marks on the crankshaft and camshaft gears, then remove the timing chain to free the camshaft.

Aligning the timing marks is critical to ensure the engine remains in the correct timing after the camshaft installation. Once aligned, gently remove the timing chain, ensuring not to disturb the alignment of the crankshaft.

• Camshaft Removal: Unbolt the camshaft from the engine block, and carefully slide it out without damaging the bearings or any surrounding components.

When removing the camshaft, be cautious to avoid scratching or damaging the bearing surfaces. It’s best to have a helper hold the engine in position while you pull the camshaft straight out.

• Install New Camshaft: Apply assembly lube to the new camshaft and its bearings, then carefully slide it into place, ensuring it aligns properly with the timing chain and gear.

Applying assembly lube helps reduce wear during initial startup and ensures smooth operation. Make sure the new camshaft is correctly positioned and securely bolted in place to avoid any operational issues.

• Reassemble Engine Components: Reinstall the timing chain, covers, valve covers, and intake manifold in reverse order, ensuring all gaskets and seals are properly placed to avoid leaks.

As you reassemble, double-check that all components are tightened to manufacturer specifications, as improper torque can lead to engine damage. Ensure that all electrical connections are reattached and that the battery is reconnected last.

• Final Checks: After reassembly, perform a final inspection for any loose parts or tools left in the engine bay, then start the engine to check for proper operation and listen for any unusual noises.

Once everything is reassembled, it’s important to monitor the engine closely during startup. Look for leaks, listen for any unusual sounds, and check engine performance to ensure the camshaft installation was successful.

What Costs Should You Expect When Purchasing a Camshaft for a 5.7 Hemi Charger?

• Camshaft Cost: The price of the camshaft itself can vary widely based on brand, specifications, and performance capabilities.
• Installation Costs: Professional installation is often recommended for camshaft replacements, which can add to your overall expenditure.
• Supporting Modifications: Upgrading the camshaft may necessitate additional modifications such as new valve springs, retainers, and possibly tuning, which will increase costs.
• Fluid Replacements: After installation, you may need to replace engine oil and coolant, adding to the total cost of the camshaft upgrade.
• Potential Dyno Tuning: To maximize performance gains, investing in dyno tuning after the installation can be a significant additional expense.

The cost of the camshaft itself can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the quality and performance level desired. Performance camshafts are often priced higher due to the engineering and materials involved in their design.

Professional installation costs can range from $300 to $800, depending on labor rates in your area and the complexity of the installation. It is crucial to consider this cost to avoid potential issues that could arise from improper installation.

Supporting modifications may include purchasing new valve springs and retainers, which can add another $200 to $500 to your project. These components are often necessary to ensure the engine can handle the increased lift and duration of a performance camshaft.

Fluid replacements, such as engine oil and coolant, typically cost around $100, but this can vary based on the products chosen. It’s essential to ensure your engine is properly lubricated and cooled after significant modifications.

Finally, investing in dyno tuning can cost anywhere from $300 to $600, depending on the tuning shop and the specific services offered. This step is crucial for optimizing the performance of your newly installed camshaft and ensuring your engine runs efficiently and reliably.

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