AboutKevin Pilotte Expertise I can answer many technical questions relating to AMC vehicles prior to 1979. I also have experience with Rambler & Nash vehicles.
Experience I am a former AMC technician, service writer and service manager. I have worked in AMC dealers in Illinois in the 70's. After college, I was a Field Service Rep for American Motors Sales Corporation, working out of the Chicago Zone office. I traveled to AMC dealers assisting in the diagnosis and repair of AMC vehicles. I was also the Area Training Manager for DeLorean Motor Company. I have 10+ years as an Automotive Instructor. I have modified and restored
numerous AMC vehicles. I have been working on AMC vehicles for over 30 years.
Organizations I have been an ASE Certified Master Technician since 1975. This includes L1. I am also currently a Toyota Certified Master Diagnostic Technician.
Publications I have articles in "American Motoring", the official publication of the American Motors Owners Association. They are the largest AMC club in the world.
Expert: Kevin Pilotte Date: 1/10/2008 Subject: AMC 304 cam
Question I have an AMC 304 out of a CJ5 that I am planning on building up. I want to put a little bigger cam in but am not sure about the valve to piston clearance. I was thinking about a 270 to 280 duration cam but have been told that this is big. Can you put me in the right direction? I plan on having the stock crank, rods and pistons balanced and putting on maybe a summit intake and an Edelbrock carb. I'm not going to race this thing but want as much streetable power in it that I can get. Thanks for any information you can give me.
Answer You don't mention what year the engine is, but unless it has 1970 heads, you have plenty of valve clearance for most street cams. There are a number of things one must consider when looking for a cam. I suggest going to the Comp Cams websight; go to the bottom of the page and click on "Cam Help Online". Complete the form to the best of your ability and let a cam expert tell you what cam would work best for your application. Here's the sight: http://www.compperformancegroupstores.com/store/merchant.mvc?Store_Code=CC
If you are installing a bigger cam, intake and carburetor, don't forget about headers and a better ignition system.
