What is Camshaft Lobe Separation and how does it affect the engine?
Lobe separation is the distance (in camshaft degrees) that the intake and exhaust lobe centerlines (for a given cylinder) are spread apart. Lobe separation is a physical characteristic of the camshaft and cannot be changed without regrinding the lobes.
This separation determines where peak torque will occur within the engine's power range. Tight lobe separations (such as 106?) cause the peak torque to build early in basic RPM range of the cam. The torque will be concentrated, build quickly and peak out. Broader lobe separations (such as 112?) allow the torque to be spread over a broader portion of the basic RPM range and shows better power through the upper RPM.
This separation determines where peak torque will occur within the engine's power range. Tight lobe separations (such as 106?) cause the peak torque to build early in basic RPM range of the cam. The torque will be concentrated, build quickly and peak out. Broader lobe separations (such as 112?) allow the torque to be spread over a broader portion of the basic RPM range and shows better power through the upper RPM.