I am in need of replacing camshafts and tappets. I am considering installing mild performance cams? Does anyone have experience with these; source; and prices? Thanks Chuck

Submitted by jbrownback@msn.com on Mon, 03/09/2009 - 07:12

I have a 63 FHC with and Isky 199 intake cam and an xj6 exhaust cam. No issues except MUCH more power. It will be good to clean up the head and add larger inlet valves while you are at it, makes a world of difference

Submitted by NC19-03320J on Wed, 03/04/2009 - 09:34

Hi Chuck,
If you think that you're going to slip in a set of "mild performance cams" and notice any or much of a difference in performance, forget it!! If you insist on different cams ISKY has been grinding Jaguar cams for at least 50 years and have a number of different Jaguar grinds and the last set that I bought from them, several years ago, they were around $200 exchange. You're generally safe from coil bind with stock springs until .400 lift , but it should be checked, and should have no valve to piston clearance problem with lifts below .430 or so, but again it should be checked.

Submitted by SC38-21185J on Wed, 03/04/2009 - 07:51

Here is an article in regards to performance camshafts:
http://www.georgiajag.com/Documents/Camshafts.html

Do you want to race your E-Type or is this just for street performance? Rather than mess with engine components, I would personally look at installing a set of Weber carburetors and possibly a set of exhaust headers, or even a 5-speed transmission. With performance cams your engine will be noisier, and possibly harder to start (if that's even possible with an E-Type!). You might want to talk to George Camp on this one. With hotter cams, you'll have some spring issues too.

Classic Jaguar in Austin has built many performance E-Types, however, their owner can be difficult to work with (you have been forwarned): http://www.classicjaguar.com/
If I were doing something like this, I'd find a good engine mechanic. This is not simply a "bolt on" and run performance change. Since you're down this far, I would also send cam bearings to PolyDyn for coating: http://www.polydyn.com/coated_bearings.htm

FYI, Crane Cams has locked its doors and gone out of business. Better get your parts soon!

Patrick