[ponjohn]

I see some lobes mentioned in various threads. They reference the B suffix.

The B suffix noted in the Master Lobe catalog denotes Big Block Chevy.

Is that correct?

[steve25]

The B suffix means it’s a hydro grind that’s one in there Magnum series from what can see from my old catalog, maybe too old!

[steve25]

The B suffix means it’s a hydro grind that’s one in there Magnum series from what can see from my catalog.

If the B suffix is after the cams duration in the part number, then yes it’s a solid non roller grind.

CB as a prefix to the duration number is a BBC cam, the small block would be CS.

[Steve C.]

Roller cam lobe suffix codes

See page 2 here:
http://gatorperformance.com/catalog_...ams%20Lobe.pdf

If ordered with a "B" suffix code after the lobe number the specs can be, but not always, slightly different.
Example, If you look at Dave Bisschop's custom grinds they are typically ordered with that code, and
it doesn't matter if it's a Magnum Hyd lobe or a Xtreme Energy hyd lobe.

And another thing to understand often the duration numbers that show up on the cam card are ever so slightly different than what the catalog lobes show, as the Pontiac cams are typically ground on a slightly different base circle than the sbc/bbc typically use, and that can result in minor changes.



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[Steve C.]

Here are numbers from a early Old Faithful cam as reported directly from a cam card:

Grind number P8 3122B / 3120B HR112.0
Rated 289 / 306 at .006" tappet lift
236 / 245 at .050"
112 LS / 108 ICL
Lobe lift .3800" and .3830"

Note the lobe numbers have the "B' suffix code.
Note the .006" numbers, 289 & 306, are slightly different than stated in the Comp Cams lobe section, 290 & 304


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[Steve C.]

In my post number 4 I meant to say it doesn't matter if it's a Magnum Hyd roller lobe or a Xtreme Energy hyd roller lobe.


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[ponjohn]

So Steve - The B suffix is acknowledging there may be a slight deviation in the finished product?

[Jay S]

For Comp rollers the cam card will reflect the change in seat duration against the profiles catalog numbers when the B is used. Usually adds a degree on the seat timing numbers against the catalog profile. The B has a bigger base circle.

[Steve C.]

So Steve - The B suffix is acknowledging there may be a slight deviation in the finished product?

YES.
As I stated, with examples, and with further clarification from Jay.



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[tom s]

Steve,dos it have something to do with the cam core?Tom

[Steve C.]

Tom,
I'm really not sure if you mean the material. . However to the best of my knowledge all Pontiac hydraulic roller cams and solid roller cams are ground on steel billet cores.
At least it used to be, I haven't used a cam from Comp in quite some time ! If you look at the Comp Pontiac part number for either a hyd or sold roller lobe the last digit you will find will be a -9 or a -11

Noted here in the core codes on page 2 here:
https://issuu.com/cpg-development/do...master_catalog


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[tom s]

I know some have copper coating steel billet cores?Tom

[Steve C.]

Regarding the copper Tom mentions. The copper is a masking that is applied before induction hardening. It allows the lobes to be hardened for long wear while the shaft remains ductile for easier straightening and resistance to breakage.
It is typical for 8620 and a few other alloys that are oven heated as part of the hardening process.

You will note it here at 4.37 on this video:

https://www.enginelabs.com/news/vide...ith-comp-cams/




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