590 cam installation tips

It's been a long time since I first posted my question. Well... I've finally installed the cam in the engine and taken it to the track. It was installed straight up. Ran a 10.95 in a head wind letting off the throttle in Phoenix. I haven't been able to race since due to the COVID-19 restrictions. The cam has a serious lope to it. Doesn't like anything below 3500 rpm, which is no problem since it's a drag race only vehicle. Leave on the trans-brake two step at 3800 rpm. Go through the traps at 7000 rpm. At this point I'm satisfied. I'll know more as I'm able to tune the car. I'm predicting high 10.80's. Which at 3180 lbs in the desert in a 360 isn't bad.

I reviewed the threads on this post and I've got a couple of comments. Several comments made about iron rockers. I don't have iron rockers. As stated I have W2 heads, (not the econo), that need a stand mount rocker system. At present I use Crane Aluminum 1.5 rockers and Mopar Performance shafts and stands. Crane and Mopar Performance are no longer are available, so when this gives out I'll need to go to T&D or Harland sharp for rockers and shafts.

I disagree with Yellow Rose's statement. Pushrod length indeed does effect the geometry of the valve train. Too short or too long can affect how the rocker contacts the valve tip. Also affects whether you're getting the full cam-lift. There are other factors such as stand height and installed valve height that affect geometry as well, but pushrod length is part of it. The pushrods I had made for the 557 cam measure up excellent for the 590 cam and are being used.

Thanks again for all the comments. I'll post more runs about this combo in the 10 second drag race forum when we get back to the track.


The only affect pushrod length has on rocker geometry on any shaft mounted system is the angle at which the adjuster meets the pushrod.

With most rockers, you lose ratio if the pushrod is too short because the adjuster is moving away from the shaft.

Other than that little affect on ratio, pushrod length doesn’t affect geometry. It’s not a stud mounted system.

Edit: BTW I’m glad it’s up and running and it sounds like you have it running well.