A new option in performance camshaft design is giving enthusiasts a way to enjoy a distinctive choppy idle without the traditional tradeoffs. The Summit Racing Pro Series Big Nasty Hydraulic Roller Camshaft line delivers the aggressive sound you want while maintaining street-friendly performance and a noticeable power boost tailored to your engine setup.

The Power of Intentional Design

For decades, choosing an aggressive camshaft profile meant accepting stumbling idle quality, sluggish throttle response, and weak low-end torque. The new Big Nasty line changes that equation. Available for small block Chevy, big block Chevy, and small block Ford engines, these cams are engineered to deliver characteristic lumpiness while improving overall powerband performance across your entire RPM range.

The engineering approach focuses on matching the camshaft profile to your specific vehicle configuration. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, Summit Racing engineered three distinct Big Nasty profiles. Big Nasty 1 emphasizes low-end torque for heavier vehicles that need extra grunt off the line. Big Nasty 2 targets mid-range punch and suits lighter cars or those running higher gear ratios. Big Nasty 3 concentrates power delivery in the higher RPM band, working best with steep gearing and elevated torque converter stall speeds. This tiered approach means you can match the camshaft to your vehicle’s weight, transmission setup, and intended powerband.

Manufacturing Quality Matters

engine valvetrain components close-up
Photo by Jorge César

Each Big Nasty camshaft begins with aerospace-grade 5150 bearing steel and undergoes precision grinding on a computer-controlled Landis CNC grinder. This process ensures superior lobe quality and consistent performance across the product line. The cams receive heat treatment before final polishing to develop consistent case hardening depth across the entire core circumference. This manufacturing rigor extends bearing life and ensures reliability in high-performance applications.

Compatibility is built into the design. Moderate lift numbers mean you can use factory cylinder heads without significant modifications. Standard Big Nasty cams work with most factory pistons, reducing the scope of engine modifications needed to install the new camshaft. When paired with proper timing belt maintenance and valvetrain upgrades, these cams deliver dependable performance.

Advanced Firing Order Technology

Summit Racing incorporated an LS engine firing order into the small and big block Chevy versions of the Big Nasty line. This design choice reduces harmonic vibration, which directly extends bearing life and improves overall engine durability. The firing order swap also increases resistance to detonation and improves longevity of cylinder head gaskets and exhaust gaskets. These benefits accumulate over thousands of miles, making the investment in a precision camshaft pay dividends in reliability.

Valvetrain Compatibility and Spring Selection

small block Chevy engine
Photo by Sergio Martins

The Big Nasty cams are designed to work with Summit Racing LS6 style beehive springs, which offer performance advantages over stock spring designs. These lighter springs allow your valvetrain to reach higher RPM levels without imposing excessive stress on rocker arms, lifters, or pushrods. To use the beehive springs, you will need 11/32 inch diameter valve spring retainers from Summit Racing. This integrated approach ensures all valvetrain components work in harmony.

Power brakes remain compatible with most Big Nasty cam applications, meaning you don’t sacrifice everyday drivability when pursuing performance. This compatibility keeps your car functional for regular driving duties while delivering noticeable performance improvements during spirited acceleration.

The Stroker Edition Advantage

For builders seeking maximum impact, Summit Racing offers the Big Nasty Stroker Edition. These profiles increase valve lift to flow more air into the combustion chamber, producing measurable power gains. The increased overlap characteristic generates an even more aggressive idle note. Stroker Edition cams represent the upper end of the aggression spectrum while maintaining the engineering precision and manufacturing quality of the base lineup.

When you’re ready to upgrade your camshaft, understanding your engine’s displacement, converter stall characteristics, axle gearing, and desired powerband is crucial. The Big Nasty lineup’s three-tier approach means you can select the profile that aligns perfectly with your build goals. Combined with quality manufacturing, smart firing order design, and proven valvetrain compatibility, these camshafts represent a modern approach to achieving classic performance sound without sacrificing street manners or long-term reliability.