Cam selection for 69 charger with vacuum headlights

[Jessejames]

Hey guys,
Putting a new motor together for my charger. Was wondering how big I can go on the cam. Not going to crazy. Just a hydraulic from bullitt most likely. I really like the 509 grind, but my engine builder thinks that's too big. Because I need enough vacuum to run the headlights. Any

 

[91r/t]

You got power brakes? Headlights use a vacuum reserve can under the battery tray so that may work, so I'd be more concerned for the power brakes if you run those. I have a 244 @.050 cam with .539 lift and my power brakes work but not great. I use the vacuum canister for the headlights to assist the booster with a jumper vacuum line I made but it is on the hairy edge for sure! My cam is also ground on a 110 degree lobe separation, which helps a bit over the 108 that most MP cams are ground on. If you could go to a 112 degree lobe separation you could get away with higher lift and a bit more duration. That will help keep your vacuum up a bit over the shorter, choppier cams.

 

[Jessejames]

Thank you!! I am running manual brakes

 

[91r/t]

Yea I tested my headlights with a pump and they seem to actuate at 7-8 in/Hg from what I remember. Anything above that will actuate the headlights. Use a hand vacuum pump and test yours to double check.

 

[68Moparmaniac]

Be sure to do a vacuum leak down on your headlight actuators, I found one of mine wouldn't hold vacuum. After costing the replacement actuators ($265.00 ea.) I decided to go with the electric conversion kit. Simple kit, easy install, a vacuum leak is still a leak brother...just sayin
previous

 

[Jessejames]

Thank you brother! That was another question I had... I figured the electric kit would be a pain to do. Thank you for clearing that up