What To Know
- Before diving into the specifics of camming a Honda Civic, let’s understand what a camshaft does and why it’s a popular modification.
- The camshaft is a component within your engine that controls the timing of the valves.
- If the camshaft is not properly chosen or installed, it can lead to drivability issues like poor fuel economy or difficulty starting the engine.
The Honda Civic is a popular choice for drivers seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient, and fun-to-drive car. But what if you want to take your Civic’s performance to the next level? One popular modification is camshaft swapping, often referred to as “cam’ing” the engine.
So, can you cam a Honda Civic? The answer is a resounding yes, but it’s not as simple as just swapping out the camshaft. There are several factors to consider, including the year and model of your Civic, your budget, and your desired performance goals.
Understanding the Basics of Camshaft Swapping
Before diving into the specifics of camming a Honda Civic, let’s understand what a camshaft does and why it’s a popular modification.
The camshaft is a component within your engine that controls the timing of the valves. These valves open and close to allow air and fuel into the combustion chamber and exhaust gases out. The camshaft’s shape and profile determine how long the valves stay open and how much they open, influencing factors like engine power, torque, and fuel efficiency.
By swapping out the stock camshaft for a more aggressive one, you can achieve:
- Increased horsepower and torque: A performance camshaft can improve airflow and combustion, resulting in more power.
- Improved throttle response: A more aggressive camshaft can make the engine feel more responsive and provide quicker acceleration.
- Higher redline: Some performance camshafts allow the engine to rev higher before the valves start to float.
- A more aggressive engine sound: Camshaft changes can alter the engine’s sound, often giving it a more throaty or sporty tone.
Choosing the Right Camshaft for Your Honda Civic
Now that you understand the benefits of camshaft swapping, let’s talk about choosing the right camshaft for your Civic.
The ideal camshaft depends on several factors, including:
- Year and model: Different Civic models have different engines, and each engine has its own specific camshaft profile. You’ll need to choose a camshaft compatible with your Civic’s engine.
- Desired performance goals: Are you looking for maximum horsepower, improved fuel economy, or a balance of both? Different camshafts offer different performance characteristics.
- Budget: Performance camshafts can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand.
The Pros and Cons of Camshaft Swapping
While camshaft swapping can offer significant performance gains, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks before deciding to modify your Civic.
Pros:
- Increased horsepower and torque
- Improved throttle response
- Higher redline
- More aggressive engine sound
Cons:
- Increased fuel consumption: Performance camshafts often lead to slightly higher fuel consumption.
- Rougher idle: More aggressive camshafts can result in a rougher idle, especially at low RPMs.
- Increased wear and tear: Running a performance camshaft can increase wear and tear on other engine components.
- Potential for drivability issues: If the camshaft is not properly chosen or installed, it can lead to drivability issues like poor fuel economy or difficulty starting the engine.
The Process of Camshaft Swapping
If you’re confident in your mechanical abilities, you can potentially perform a camshaft swap yourself. However, it’s a complex procedure that requires specialized tools and knowledge.
Here’s a general overview of the process:
1. Remove the valve cover and timing belt: This allows access to the camshaft.
2. Remove the old camshaft: This requires special tools to remove the camshaft sprockets and other components.
3. Install the new camshaft: Ensure the camshaft is properly aligned and timed before installing it.
4. Reinstall the timing belt and valve cover: Make sure everything is properly secured and timed.
5. Start the engine and check for any leaks or issues:
The Importance of Professional Installation
While it’s possible to DIY a camshaft swap, it’s strongly recommended to have it done by a professional mechanic. A professional mechanic will:
- Have the necessary tools and expertise: They have the specialized tools and experience to perform the job correctly.
- Ensure proper timing and alignment: Incorrect timing can cause serious engine damage.
- Diagnose and address any issues: They can identify and resolve any problems that may arise during the installation process.
Beyond Camshaft Swapping: Enhancing Your Civic’s Performance
While camshaft swapping can be a significant performance upgrade, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Other modifications can further enhance your Civic’s performance, including:
- Exhaust system upgrade: A performance exhaust system can improve airflow and reduce backpressure, increasing horsepower and torque.
- Intake manifold upgrade: A high-flow intake manifold can improve airflow into the engine, boosting power.
- Engine tuning: A professional tune can optimize your engine’s performance by adjusting fuel and ignition timing based on your modifications.
- Suspension upgrades: Upgraded suspension components can improve handling and cornering performance.
The Verdict: Is Camshaft Swapping Worth It?
Whether or not camshaft swapping is worth it for your Honda Civic depends on your individual needs and goals. If you’re seeking a significant performance boost and are willing to invest the time and money, it can be a worthwhile upgrade. However, if you’re on a tight budget or are looking for a more subtle performance improvement, other modifications may be a better option.
Moving Beyond the Basics: Exploring Specific Civic Models
While the general principles of camshaft swapping apply across different Honda Civic models, there are nuances specific to each generation. For example, the K20 engine found in the 2006-2011 Civic Si is known for its camshaft swap potential, offering significant performance gains.
Researching resources specific to your Civic model will provide you with the most accurate information about camshaft options, compatibility, and potential performance gains.
Wrapping Up: Your Honda Civic’s Performance Journey
Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious owner looking to unlock your Civic’s potential, camshaft swapping can be a thrilling journey. Remember to do your research, consider your goals, and weigh the pros and cons before taking the plunge.
With careful planning and execution, you can unlock your Civic’s hidden performance potential and experience the thrill of a truly tuned machine.
Popular Questions
Q: How much horsepower gain can I expect from a camshaft swap?
A: The horsepower gain from a camshaft swap varies depending on the specific camshaft, engine, and other modifications. You can expect gains ranging from 10-30 horsepower, but some camshafts can deliver even more significant increases.
Q: Will a camshaft swap void my car’s warranty?
A: Yes, a camshaft swap will likely void your car’s warranty. Most manufacturers consider engine modifications to be outside the scope of the warranty.
Q: What are some other performance modifications I can make to my Honda Civic?
A: In addition to camshaft swapping, you can consider exhaust system upgrades, intake manifold upgrades, engine tuning, suspension upgrades, and lightweight wheels and tires.
Q: Are there any risks associated with camshaft swapping?
A: Yes, there are risks associated with camshaft swapping. If the camshaft is not properly chosen or installed, it can lead to drivability issues, engine damage, or even a loss of power. It’s crucial to choose a reputable mechanic and ensure proper installation.
