360 with the 509 cam

X3

As someone posted earlier, Dave Hughes (a former Chrysler Engineer) has spent the last 2 decades designing and optimizing cams that run hard with low compression.

If you call him with your application, I doubt there's anybody out there whose more qualified or dedicated to the Mopar brand. His stuff is top notch, but in order to preserve warranty, he does require you purchase his other parts for compatibility. Comp's got some good low compression cams as well.

On a new cam, the best way to break one in is by using just a single outer spring. Use lotsa break in lube, prime the engine good, and get the rpms up quick to ~2000 for 10-15 minutes; shut it down and change the oil and filter. Then, drive it for about 100 miles, keeping the rpms under ~3500.

After that, put the inner springs on and drive it like you stole it.

If you insist on using the MP piece you have, then at least change head gaskets from the thick composition that's on it now, and get a pair of the .017 steel head gaskets to bump your compression up some. Even that won't get you optimal cylinder pressure, but it will perform better.

Southernman

How much compression would you get back using those .017 head gaskets?

Thank you guys for the continued info!