what advantages are there for switching from flat to roller lifters on the 302? ive been consdering this switch mainly because there are many more options for aftermarket cams if you have roller lifters than the stock flat-tappet. so is it worth it to change? thanks!

 

I think the main advantages are less friction (which = more hp), quieter operation, and longer life. I would say go for it. It's a pain it the @$$ to replace the cam bearings if you change the cam, but replacing the lifters, pushrods, and valvetrain is pretty simple. I actually decided to keep the stock cam in the 351W i'm building because according to desktop dyno the stack cam will make more power than a racing cam with my setup, so you might want to check into that as well.

-Jon

 

There are advantages to a roller cam, too. Aside from the obvious, they are stronger. Roller cams are made from billet steel, whereas flat cams are made from cast iron. If you ever decide to change the cam over to a roller, be advised that you also have to change the gear on the end of the distributor. Yours is made of cast iron to match that of your stock cam, and when used with a steel cam, they can and do crack and/or chip, leaving you stranded and with metal chips in your oil. Always make sure your distributor gear is made of the same material as your camshaft. On a side note, bronze replacement gears are offered for distributors because they're a softer metal, and won't "break" or chip, but they do wear rapidly, leaving metal shavings in the oil. For this reason, they should only be used in racing vehicles that are subjected to frequent maintenance.

Take care,
-Chris