What Is a Quad Cam Engine

Therefore there are two camshafts for a straight engine and a total of four camshafts for a V engine or a flat engine. Sometimes a DOHC V engine is marketed as a quad cam engine, however the “extra” two camshafts are a result of the engine’s layout rather than providing a benefit compared with other DOHC engines.

What does a cam do in an engine?

The camshaft is critical to the basic function of an engine. Comprised of two distinct parts, the cams and the shaft, the camshaft is the element that enables valves to open. As the shaft rotates, the egg-shaped cams (or “lobes”) push the valves open in sync with the crankshaft gear.

How does a cam add horsepower?

Performance cams increase the duration and timing of the valve openings during the engine stroke, increasing horsepower and making your car accelerate more quickly. You’ll idle slightly rougher with a performance cam, but get a throaty rumble that’s desirable for some gearheads, depending on your vehicle.

Robert Thorne

Robert Thorne

Automotive & Future Transportation Editor

Robert Thorne covers electric vehicle innovations, autonomous driving systems, global mobility trends, and automotive engineering developments.

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