Upgrading the camshaft is among the most effective ways to unlock horsepower and torque in your 5.7 Hemi Ram. We researched specifications, owner feedback, and industry data to compare seven top camshafts. Our evaluation focuses on real-world performance gains, durability, ease of installation, and how each cam affects drivability. Whether you want a mild daily driver upgrade or a radical race cam, this guide will help you choose the best performance cam for your 5.7 Hemi Ram.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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COMP Cams 269HRT Thumpr Hydraulic Roller Camshaft Top Pick Hydraulic roller, 269/276 duration, .520/.520 lift, 114 LSA |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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BTR Stage 2 Truck Camshaft Best for Towing Hydraulic roller, 215/223 duration, .560/.560 lift, 114+4 LSA |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Mopar Performance Camshaft Kit (P5154999) OEM Plus Hydraulic roller, 270/272 duration, .500/.500 lift, 113 LSA |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Texas Speed 228R Camshaft Best for Street Performance Hydraulic roller, 228/234 duration, .600/.600 lift, 112 LSA |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Howards Cams 197005-14 Hydraulic Roller Budget Friendly Hydraulic roller, 212/218 duration, .525/.525 lift, 112 LSA |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Lunati Voodoo 10230504 Camshaft Race Ready Hydraulic roller, 234/244 duration, .605/.605 lift, 110 LSA |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Crower 62950H Hydraulic Roller Camshaft High Lift Hydraulic roller, 220/226 duration, .580/.580 lift, 112 LSA |
7.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. COMP Cams 269HRT Thumpr Hydraulic Roller Camshaft: Top Pick
In our evaluation, the COMP Cams 269HRT Thumpr stands out as the top pick for Ram owners seeking a balance of performance and that classic hot rod idle. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheet, this hydraulic roller cam delivers noticeable mid-range torque and an aggressive exhaust note. It is designed for trucks that see street and occasional track use, making it a flexible upgrade.
However, this cam does require supporting mods like stronger valve springs and a proper tune. It may not be ideal for those who want a simple bolt-on without ECU recalibration. We recommend it for enthusiasts willing to invest in complementary upgrades for maximum reliability.
- Aggressive Thumpr idle and strong mid-range power
- Works with stock valve train and ECU tuning
- Includes camshaft only; springs and retainers recommended
Pros: Distinctive muscle car idle; Good power gains from 2,000-6,000 RPM
Cons: Requires aftermarket valve springs for best results
2. BTR Stage 2 Truck Camshaft: Best for Towing
The BTR Stage 2 Truck Cam is our top recommendation for Ram owners who use their truck for towing or heavy hauling. We researched its profile and found it prioritizes low-end torque without sacrificing daily drivability. Owner reviews consistently praise its ability to maintain power from idle to 4,500 RPM, making it ideal for pulling trailers.
On the downside, this cam does not produce the high-RPM horsepower of more aggressive options. It is best for those who value torque over peak HP and want a cam that works well with a stock converter. If you rarely tow, you might prefer a cam with more top-end power.
- Optimized for low-end torque and towing capability
- Smooth idle with minimal loss of drivability
- Works with stock torque converter for most applications
Pros: Excellent low-RPM grunt; Towing-friendly powerband
Cons: Limited top-end horsepower compared to more aggressive cams
3. Mopar Performance Camshaft Kit (P5154999): OEM Plus
For those who want a performance cam without straying far from factory specs, the Mopar Performance cam kit is a solid choice. We compared its specifications to OEM parts and found it offers a modest bump in lift and duration while maintaining a smooth idle. It is a complete kit, reducing the need for additional purchases.
However, its gains are conservative. If you are looking for a dramatic increase in horsepower, this cam may disappoint. It is best for owners who prioritize reliability and ease of installation over peak numbers. We recommend it for daily drivers where warranty concerns are paramount.
- Factory-engineered for reliability and warranty-friendly
- Includes camshaft, lifters, and timing chain
- Mild performance upgrade with stable idle
Pros: OEM quality and fitment; Easy installation with included components
Cons: Modest power gains compared to aftermarket cams
4. Texas Speed 228R Camshaft: Best for Street Performance
The Texas Speed 228R is a popular choice for street performance enthusiasts. Based on owner feedback, it delivers impressive power in the 3,000-6,500 RPM range, making it great for spirited driving. However, we found that its aggressive profile requires a full valvetrain upgrade and a custom tune to avoid issues.
This cam is not for the faint of heart. It produces a pronounced lope that some find annoying, and it may cause low-speed drivability issues in heavy traffic. We recommend it for owners who prioritize maximum horsepower and are comfortable with a more involved installation and tuning process.
- Strong mid-to-high RPM power
- Requires upgraded valve springs and pushrods
- Noticeable lope at idle
Pros: Excellent peak horsepower; Proven track record
Cons: Harsh idle may not suit daily driving; Needs extensive supporting mods
5. Howards Cams 197005-14 Hydraulic Roller: Budget Friendly
The Howards Cams 197005-14 offers a budget-friendly way to add some performance to your 5.7 Hemi. We compared its specs to pricier options and found it provides a mild lift and duration increase that can improve throttle response without requiring major modifications. It is a good starting point for those new to cam swaps.
However, owner feedback indicates inconsistent quality, with some users reporting premature wear. The power gains are modest, so enthusiasts seeking significant horsepower may be disappointed. We recommend this cam only if you are on a tight budget and willing to accept potential reliability trade-offs.
- Affordable entry-level cam upgrade
- Mild performance increase with decent idle
- Works with stock valve springs in some applications
Pros: Low cost; Good for beginners
Cons: Limited power gains; Mixed reports on quality control
6. Lunati Voodoo 10230504 Camshaft: Race Ready
The Lunati Voodoo 10230504 is designed for all-out racing, not daily driving. In our research, we found that its aggressive specs can produce over 500 hp when paired with a built engine, but it sacrifices virtually all low-end torque and drivability. It requires a standalone ECU, upgraded valvetrain, and constant tuning.
We only recommend this cam for dedicated race trucks that rarely see the street. For most Ram owners, the compromises in idle quality, fuel economy, and reliability outweigh the performance benefits. Skip this if your truck is a daily driver or tow vehicle.
- Extreme lift and duration for maximum top-end power
- Requires complete valvetrain upgrade and standalone ECU
- Very rough idle; not street-friendly
Pros: Huge power gains above 4,000 RPM; Race-proven design
Cons: Poor low-end torque; Difficult to tune and maintain
7. Crower 62950H Hydraulic Roller Camshaft: High Lift
The Crower 62950H offers high lift that can unlock substantial power, but it comes with significant risks. We evaluated its specs and found that it demands precise valve clearance measurements and often requires fly-cutting the pistons. Installation is not for beginners, and even experienced builders must be cautious.
If you are building a fully forged engine with aftermarket heads, this cam can be part of a high-horsepower setup. For a stock 5.7 Hemi, we advise against it due to the high risk of engine damage. Most owners will be better served by a less aggressive cam with easier installation.
- High lift for increased airflow
- Requires extensive head work and valve clearance checks
- Not recommended for stock engines
Pros: Potential for high RPM power; Quality construction
Cons: Very demanding installation; Risk of piston-to-valve interference
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a performance camshaft affect my Ram's fuel economy?
Yes, a performance camshaft can reduce fuel economy, especially at low RPMs, because it changes the engine’s volumetric efficiency. More aggressive cams with higher overlap cause more fuel to be wasted at idle and partial throttle. However, a mild cam like the BTR Stage 2 may have a minimal impact, while a race cam like the Lunati Voodoo can significantly decrease MPG.
Do I need to tune my Ram after installing a performance cam?
In most cases, yes. A custom tune is essential to adjust fuel and spark timing for the new cam’s airflow characteristics. Without a tune, you may experience rough idle, poor drivability, and even engine damage. Some mild cams can run on a stock tune with minor issues, but a tune is highly recommended for optimal performance and reliability.
Can I install a performance cam myself, or should I hire a professional?
Installing a camshaft is an advanced DIY job that requires mechanical experience, special tools (like a degree wheel and dial indicator), and knowledge of engine timing. Mistakes can lead to catastrophic engine failure. If you are not confident, we recommend hiring a professional shop to ensure proper installation and avoid costly repairs.
What supporting modifications are needed with a cam upgrade?
Most performance cams require upgraded valve springs to prevent valve float, and often pushrods and retainers. You may also need a higher-stall torque converter (for automatic transmissions), a cold air intake, and exhaust upgrades to fully realize the gains. Always check the cam manufacturer’s recommendations.
Will a cam upgrade void my Ram's warranty?
Yes, installing an aftermarket camshaft can void your Ram’s powertrain warranty, especially if the modification is linked to an engine failure. Some dealerships may deny warranty claims for related components. If your truck is still under warranty, consider a mild cam like the Mopar Performance kit, which may be more warranty-friendly, but always check with your dealer.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top options, we recommend the COMP Cams 269HRT Thumpr as the best overall performance cam for the 5.7 Hemi Ram, offering a great balance of power, sound, and drivability. For those who prioritize towing and low-end torque, the BTR Stage 2 Truck Cam is an excellent runner-up.
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