BIG CAMS, NO VACUUM

Our D’GARAGE Project Fame Civic produces just 2.0 inHg of vacuum at idle. The high-lift, long-duration WEB-CAM camshafts are a critical part of the 1,060 wheel horsepower recipe, but they also reduce manifold vacuum to barely measurable levels. Stopping from 170-plus MPH with minimal power brake assist requires major pedal effort and may not allow desired brake line pressures to be reached. Fortunately, we sourced a solution that allows the use of any camshafts while actually improving the quality of vacuum power assisted systems above the levels experience with a bone-stock engine.

SUCK IT UP, MAKE VACUUM

Comp Cams developed its Electric Vacuum Pump (p/n 5500) to end vacuum woes once and for all. The kit includes the pump, check valve, vacuum switch and hardware necessary for the install. During operation, the vacuum switch monitors the level of vacuum in the brake or clutch booster. When vacuum drops below 18 inHg, the switch activates the vacuum pump until 22 inHg of vacuum is maintained. On applications where an abundance of reserve vacuum is needed for devices, a Comp Cams Vacuum Canister (p/n 5201) can also be added to the system. In fact, the canister may also be a solution for vehicles that produce only slightly less vacuum than stock levels.

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So far, the Comp Cams Electric Vacuum Pump has delivered on its promise. While the pump may be a bit too noisy for an ultra-quiet luxury car when it activates, it’s never on for long. On top of that, most cars with big cams have exhaust systems much louder. The bottom line is that Comp Cams’ solution means that you never have to settle for a “milder” cam just to be sure that your power brakes will work.