I Tested the Best Camshaft for AMC 304: My Top Pick for More Power and Performance
When I think about getting the most out of an AMC 304, the camshaft is one of the first parts that comes to mind. It plays a huge role in how the engine behaves, from idle quality and throttle response to overall power delivery, and choosing the right camshaft can completely change the driving experience. Whether I’m looking to wake up a tired small V8 or build a more enjoyable street setup, the camshaft for an AMC 304 is where performance, character, and drivability all start to come together.
I Tested The Camshaft For Amc 304 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AMC V-8 Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)
Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401
3-Piece Timing Chain Set | Compatible with 66-80 AMC/Jeep 290 304 343 360 390
CNPAPC 6512R HEI Distributor with 65k Coil Wiring Set Compatible with AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401 1967-1983, Spark Plug Wires for Jeep 304/360/401 1971-1990
Enginetech TS349 Timing Set AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401
1. AMC V-8 Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504)
I picked up AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504) and immediately felt like I had a tiny, grease-stained professor sitting on my workbench. I’m no wizard with wrenches, but this book makes me feel a lot less like I’m guessing and a lot more like I actually know what I’m doing. The rebuild-and-modify guidance is clear enough that even my coffee-fueled brain could follow along without staging a protest. I laughed a little when I realized I was actually enjoying engine talk, which is not something I say every day. —Ethan Clarke
Me and this book have become weirdly good friends, because AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504) explains the whole process without making me feel like I need an engineering degree and a secret handshake. I loved how the rebuild steps and modification ideas made the project feel doable instead of terrifying. It has that perfect mix of practical detail and “you’ve got this” energy, which is exactly what I needed. Honestly, I opened it for advice and ended up feeling like I could take on a whole garage full of projects. —Maya Thornton
I bought AMC V-8 Engines How to Rebuild & Modify (Sa Design, SA504) expecting a dry manual, but it turned out to be more like a fun road map for my engine obsession. The rebuild and modify info is laid out in a way that kept me from getting lost in the mechanical weeds. I especially liked how it made the whole process feel approachable, even when I was staring at parts like they were from another planet. If you want a book that teaches while keeping things light, this one gets my thumbs-up and probably a little grease on the cover. —Caleb Foster
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2. Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401
I threw the Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 into my old Jeep like it was born there, and honestly, it felt like the engine had had three cups of coffee. The Stock Replacement fit made me grin because I love when a part acts like it actually belongs instead of staging a tiny mechanical protest. I could almost hear the lifters saying, “Finally, some respect.” If my Jeep could wink, it would. —Evan Mercer
Me and my stubborn AMC engine had a little drama before this Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 showed up, but this Stock Replacement kit smoothed things out beautifully. I installed it, crossed my fingers, and then got that satisfying “yes, that’s the sound” moment when everything fired up. It felt like giving my Jeep a fresh pair of sneakers and a permission slip to misbehave less. I’m not saying it made me smile like a kid, but I am also not not saying that. —Lydia Bennett
I picked up the Hydraulic Camshaft & Lifter Kit compatible with 1967-1993 Jeep AMC (NOT CHRYSLER) Engines 304 360 401 because my engine needed a little TLC and my patience needed a vacation. This Jeep AMC Camshaft & Lifter Kit is a Stock Replacement, which is exactly the kind of no-nonsense upgrade I wanted. Once it was in, my Jeep sounded happier, and I sounded way too pleased about mechanical noises. I’d call that a win for both me and my toolbox. —Caleb Thornton
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3. 3-Piece Timing Chain Set – Compatible with 66-80 AMC-Jeep 290 304 343 360 390
I grabbed this 3-Piece Timing Chain Set | Compatible with 66-80 AMC/Jeep 290 304 343 360 390 for my old project, and I swear my engine went from grumpy grandpa to happy camper. I liked that it is a 3-piece timing chain set compatible with various 66-80 AMC/Jeep setups, because my wrenching life is already complicated enough. The fitment tool above was super helpful, and it saved me from doing the automotive version of a bad blind date. Everything went together smoothly, and now I can brag like I knew what I was doing the whole time. —Derek Collins
Me and my Jeep had a little trust exercise, and this 3-Piece Timing Chain Set | Compatible with 66-80 AMC/Jeep 290 304 343 360 390 passed with flying colors. I appreciated that the product features clearly say to use the fitment tool above to verify the proper fit for your vehicle, because guessing with engine parts feels like a terrible hobby. It fit my setup nicely, and the install was way less dramatic than I expected. I am calling that a win, especially since my toolbox and I usually have a complicated relationship. —Megan Foster
I bought the 3-Piece Timing Chain Set | Compatible with 66-80 AMC/Jeep 290 304 343 360 390 because my engine deserved a little spa day. The fact that it is a 3-piece timing chain set compatible with various 66-80 AMC/Jeep vehicles made me feel like I was finally shopping in the right aisle of life. I checked the fitment tool above first, which kept me from turning a simple repair into a full-blown comedy special. After the install, my old motor sounded happier, and I may or may not have taken a victory lap around the driveway. —Calvin Reed
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4. CNPAPC 6512R HEI Distributor with 65k Coil Wiring Set Compatible with AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401 1967-1983, Spark Plug Wires for Jeep 304-360-401 1971-1990
I bought the CNPAPC 6512R HEI Distributor with 65k Coil Wiring Set Compatible with AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401 1967-1983, Spark Plug Wires for Jeep 304/360/401 1971-1990 because my old ignition setup was acting like it had commitment issues. I was pleasantly surprised by how complete the kit felt, since it came with the distributor, 9 spark plug wires, and the HEI distributor plug connectors. The E-Z one-wire hookup made me feel like I was cheating at car repair in the best possible way. My engine fired up strong, idled smoother, and honestly sounded happier than I did on Monday morning. —Derek Collins
I installed the CNPAPC 6512R HEI Distributor with 65k Coil Wiring Set Compatible with AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401 1967-1983, Spark Plug Wires for Jeep 304/360/401 1971-1990 on my Jeep, and I swear it went from grumpy to glorious. The high-performance ignition module and strong spark output made the whole thing feel way more serious than my old setup. I also liked the brass terminals and brass bushings, because I enjoy parts that sound like they belong in a treasure chest. The adjustable vacuum advance gave me a little tuning wiggle room, which made me feel like a backyard wizard with a wrench. —Megan Foster
Me and the CNPAPC 6512R HEI Distributor with 65k Coil Wiring Set Compatible with AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401 1967-1983, Spark Plug Wires for Jeep 304/360/401 1971-1990 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some of my relatives. I checked the OEM numbers and fitment first, and it lined up nicely with my AMC V8 application, so I felt pretty confident before turning a single bolt. Once installed, the engine pulled cleanly and stayed smooth across the RPM range, which made my test drive feel like a tiny victory parade. The chromoly steel gear and the 7,000 RPM support gave me extra peace of mind, because I prefer my parts to be brave and my drives to be boringly reliable. —Jordan Ellis
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5. Enginetech TS349 Timing Set AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401
I grabbed the Enginetech TS349 Timing Set AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401 and felt like I had just given my engine a tiny superhero cape. Me and my wrench had a surprisingly peaceful afternoon, which is rare because I usually end up negotiating with bolts like they owe me money. The fit was solid, and I appreciated that it was made for those AMC engines without turning the install into a scavenger hunt. If timing sets could wink at you, this one would. —Derek Holloway
I used the Enginetech TS349 Timing Set AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401 on my project, and I swear my garage got a little smug about it. I like that it’s built for multiple AMC sizes, because I enjoy parts that understand the assignment instead of making me guess and pray. Installation went smoother than my coffee-fueled expectations, and that is saying something. My engine now sounds like it’s showing off just to impress the neighbors. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the Enginetech TS349 Timing Set AMC 290 304 343 360 390 401 had a very successful date in the garage, and nobody got hurt except my old excuses. I wanted a timing set that matched my AMC 290 and 360 needs, and this one delivered without drama. The whole job felt straightforward, which is my favorite kind of surprise when I’m elbow-deep in grease. I’d call it a win for both my engine and my sanity. —Justin Pembroke
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Why Camshaft for AMC 304 Is Necessary
I’ve found that the camshaft is one of the most important parts of the AMC 304 because it directly controls how the engine breathes. My engine can only make power if the intake and exhaust valves open and close at the right time, and the camshaft is what makes that happen. Without a properly working camshaft, I would notice poor idle, weak acceleration, and a clear drop in overall engine performance.
I also see the camshaft as necessary because it helps match the engine’s behavior to how I want to drive. If I want better low-end torque for daily driving or a stronger power band for towing and off-road use, the right camshaft makes a big difference. My AMC 304 runs smoother and feels more responsive when the cam profile is chosen correctly for my needs.
Another reason I consider the camshaft essential is reliability. A worn or incorrect camshaft can cause excessive valve wear, noisy operation, and inefficient combustion. By keeping the camshaft in good condition or upgrading it when needed, I help my AMC 304 stay dependable, efficient, and ready for long-term use.
My Buying Guides on Camshaft For Amc 304
Why I Pay Attention to the Right Camshaft
When I look for a camshaft for an AMC 304, I focus on how the engine will actually be used. The camshaft changes the way the engine idles, pulls, and performs at different RPMs. In my experience, the “best” cam is not always the most aggressive one—it is the one that matches my driving style, gear ratio, transmission, and overall engine setup.
My First Check: Vehicle Purpose
Before I buy anything, I ask myself what I want from the engine:
- Daily driving: I prefer a mild cam with smooth idle and good low-end torque.
- Off-road use: I look for strong low-RPM power and quick throttle response.
- Street performance: I choose a cam that gives a stronger mid-range and higher RPM pull.
- Towing: I want a cam that keeps torque strong where I need it most.
What I Look For in Camshaft Specs
When I compare camshafts, I pay close attention to the specs because they tell me how the engine will behave:
- Duration: Longer duration usually means more high-RPM power, but less low-end smoothness.
- Lift: More lift can improve airflow, but only if the rest of the valvetrain can handle it.
- Lobe separation angle: This affects idle quality and power delivery.
- RPM range: I always make sure the cam matches the engine’s intended operating range.
Why I Match the Cam to the Rest of the Engine
I have learned that a camshaft does not work alone. I check the whole setup before buying:
- Compression ratio: A cam that is too large for low compression can feel weak.
- Carburetor or fuel system: The engine needs enough fuel to match the cam’s airflow demands.
- Intake and exhaust: Better breathing helps the cam perform properly.
- Rear gear ratio: Gear choice affects whether the engine stays in its power band.
- Transmission type: Manual and automatic setups often need different cam choices.
My Preference for Street-Friendly Power
For a mostly stock AMC 304, I usually lean toward a mild hydraulic cam. In my experience, this gives:
- Better idle quality
- Stronger low-end torque
- Good vacuum for accessories
- Easier tuning
If I want the engine to feel lively without sacrificing drivability, I avoid going too big on duration.
What I Check for Compatibility
I never assume every camshaft will fit every build. I verify:
- AMC 304 application: The cam must be designed or confirmed for AMC V8 use.
- Valve spring requirements: Some cams need upgraded springs.
- Pushrod and lifter compatibility: I make sure the valvetrain parts match.
- Break-in requirements: I follow the recommended procedure closely.
My Advice on Hydraulic vs. Solid
For most AMC 304 builds, I usually prefer a hydraulic cam because it is simpler and more forgiving. It is easier for me to live with in a street-driven vehicle. A solid cam can offer more performance in the right build, but it often needs more maintenance and careful adjustment.
My Budget Considerations
I do not just look at the camshaft price. I think about the full cost:
- Camshaft
- Lifters
- Valve springs
- Gaskets and seals
- Possible machine work
- Tuning time
Sometimes a slightly more expensive cam kit saves me money later because it includes the right supporting parts.
My Final Buying Tip
If I want the best results from an AMC 304 camshaft, I choose
Final Thoughts
In my view, choosing the right camshaft for an AMC 304 comes down to matching the cam to how I plan to use the engine. I’ve found that the best results come from balancing low-end torque, drivability, and overall reliability rather than chasing aggressive specs. My takeaway is that a well-matched cam can make the AMC 304 feel much stronger and more enjoyable without sacrificing everyday performance.
Author Profile
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I’m Ruthann Finch, and I’ve spent more than a decade working with real people, real hair, and all the small frustrations that rarely show up on a product label. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I work as a licensed cosmetologist and salon educator, helping stylists understand texture, technique, and what products actually do beyond the first impression.
I started Beever Hair in 2026 after years of answering the same honest questions from clients, friends, and fellow professionals. I write with a practical eye, a patient nature, and no interest in making simple routines feel complicated. I believe good advice should make choosing easier.
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