Best SBC Cam for Low-End Torque in a Dump Truck

When you’re driving a dump truck with a Small Block Chevy (SBC)—like a 350 or 383 stroker—you’re not looking for high-RPM horsepower. What you need is grunt—torque that hits hard at low RPMs so you can climb hills, haul loads, and crawl through job sites without bogging down or overheating the clutch.

So, what’s the best SBC cam for low-end torque in a dump truck?
This guide covers the top camshaft options for stock or mild builds that prioritize torque, drivability, and load-pulling power.

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Why Low-End Torque Matters in a Dump Truck

Dump trucks operate under conditions that demand torque early in the RPM range:

• Heavy loads at low speed

• Frequent stop-and-go

• Low-gear crawling on construction sites or inclines

• Towing or pushing equipment

Choosing the right cam means improving bottom-end throttle response, idle quality, and usable torque between 1,000 and 3,500 RPM.

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What to Look for in a Torque-Focused SBC Cam

✅ Short Duration @ .050”

Duration in the [195–210°] range helps build cylinder pressure faster at lower RPMs—ideal for torque.

✅ Moderate Lobe Separation (110–112°)

A slightly narrower LSA helps improve midrange torque and throttle snap while maintaining good idle.

✅ Hydraulic Flat Tappet or Roller

Hydraulic flat tappets are cost-effective and reliable; rollers offer better performance but cost more.

✅ Mild Lift

You don’t need extreme lift—.420″–.460″ is ideal for stock heads and mild valve trains.

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Best SBC Cams for Low-End Torque in Dump Trucks

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1. Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 252H (PN 12-230-2)

(Best Overall for Stock 350s)

Why it’s great:
Designed for trucks and towing, this cam builds torque right off idle and maintains strong pull through the low RPM band.

Specs:

• Duration @ .050″: 206/212

• Lift: .447/.454

• Lobe Separation: 110°

• RPM Range: 1,000–4,200

Best For: Stock or near-stock 350s in work trucks

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2. Lunati Voodoo 250/256 Hydraulic Flat Tappet (PN 60100)

(Best Throttle Response and Idle Quality)

Why it’s great:
Voodoo cams are known for their aggressive ramps and torque-friendly valve events. Great for trucks that need snap down low but don’t rev high.

Specs:

• Duration @ .050″: 207/213

• Lift: .447/.454

• LSA: 112°

• RPM Range: 800–4,200

Best For: Drivers who want smooth low-speed response and idle in daily-use dump trucks

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3. Elgin E-1840-P (Best for TBI or Vortec 350s)

(OEM+ Torque Cam for Fuel-Injected SBCs)

Why it’s great:
This cam works great with TBI or Vortec heads and stock ECMs. It builds torque without tripping up computer-controlled fuel systems.

Specs:

• Duration @ .050″: 194/204

• Lift: .398/.442

• LSA: 112°

• Works with stock EFI computers

Best For: 1987–1995 TBI or 1996–2002 Vortec 350s in dump trucks or plow rigs

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4. Summit Racing K1102 Cam & Lifter Kit

(Best Budget Torque Cam for Older SBCs)

Why it’s great:
A cost-effective torque cam that performs well with stock heads, low compression, and low-speed operation.

Specs:

• Duration @ .050″: 204/214

• Lift: .420/.442

• LSA: 112°

• RPM Range: 1,000–4,500

Best For: Budget-conscious dump truck rebuilds or older C/K series trucks

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5. Comp Cams Thumpr Truck Cam (PN 12-602-4)

(Best for Torque with a Mild Lopey Sound)

Why it’s great:
If you want more grunt and a little muscle-truck idle, the Truck Thumpr cam balances work and attitude.

Specs:

• Duration @ .050″: 219/233

• Lift: .483/.475

• LSA: 107°

• RPM Range: 1,800–5,800

Best For: Mildly modified dump trucks or hot rod work trucks with performance heads/intake

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Camshaft Comparison Table

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Pro Tips for a Torque-Focused SBC Build

• Use tight quench heads and small intake runners to enhance low-end flow (e.g., 170cc ports)

• Stick with dual-plane intakes like Edelbrock Performer or GM stock iron

• Use shorter tube headers or stock manifolds for better exhaust velocity down low

• Run 3.73–4.10 gears for faster launch under load

• Don’t over-carb—keep it under 650 CFM unless you’re running stroker displacement

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Conclusion

The best camshaft for low-end torque in a dump truck SBC is one that delivers instant throttle response, strong off-idle pull, and smooth drivability under heavy loads.

• For all-around low-RPM grunt, go with the Comp Cams XE252H

• If you want max snap and smooth idle, choose the Lunati Voodoo 60100

• Running TBI or Vortec injection? Use the Elgin E-1840-P

Pick the right cam, match it to your gearing and compression, and your dump truck will pull harder, run cooler, and handle the heavy stuff without breaking a sweat.