Take your Cummins performance build to the next level with the Colt Cams Camshaft. Developed through extensive research and development, including dyno testing of more than 50 combinations of cam durations, lobe separations, and installation centerlines, this performance camshaft is optimized for Cummins engines.
Starting off, let's go over the Stage 3 "Big Stick" camshaft which is designed to deliver strong mid-range torque and horsepower while maintaining excellent low-end response and drivability. Its 181° intake and 210° exhaust profile provides increased cam lift and optimized valve timing for a performance upgrade that works well in both street and performance-oriented Cummins applications.
The Stages 4 and 5 both build on the proven Colt Cams Stage 3 "Big Stick" profile with a larger exhaust profile designed to improve exhaust flow. This makes it an excellent choice for Cummins engines running large single turbos or compound turbo systems, where improved exhaust flow can help maximize the performance of the overall combination.
Stage 3 "Big Stick" Features
- 181° intake / 210° exhaust profile
- 0.280" intake cam lift
- 0.307" exhaust cam lift
- 106° lobe separation angle
- Drop-in installation on most engines
- Strong low-end response and drivability
- Increased mid-range torque and horsepower
- Average reported 2–3 MPG fuel economy improvement
- 30–35% reported reduction in smoke output
- Approximately 200°F reported EGT reduction
- Reliable performance up to 4,000 RPM
Stage 3 Specifications
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Intake Duration: 181°
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Exhaust Duration: 210°
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Intake Cam Lift: 0.280"
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Exhaust Cam Lift: 0.307"
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Lobe Separation Angle: 106°
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Valve Clearance: No* — always verify before installation
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RPM Rating: 4,000 RPM
Stage 4 Camshaft Features
- 181° intake / 218° exhaust profile
- 0.280" intake cam lift
- 0.323" exhaust cam lift
- 107.5° lobe separation angle
- Drop-in installation on most engines
- Larger exhaust profile than the Stage 3 "Big Stick"
- Ideal for large single and compound turbo applications
- Designed to improve exhaust flow
- Can help improve fuel efficiency and reduce smoke output
- Designed to help lower EGTs
- Reliable performance up to 4,400 RPM
Stage 4 Specifications
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Intake Duration: 181°
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Exhaust Duration: 218°
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Intake Cam Lift: 0.280"
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Exhaust Cam Lift: 0.323"
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Lobe Separation Angle: 107.5°
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Valve Clearance: No* (always verify before installation)
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RPM Rating: 4,400 RPM
Stage 5 Camshaft Features
- Designed for 5.9L and 6.7L Cummins B-Series engines
- 199° intake / 218° exhaust profile
- 0.296" intake cam lift
- 0.323" exhaust cam lift
- 108° lobe separation angle
- Designed for high-performance Cummins applications
- Engineered through extensive dyno testing and R&D
- Reliable performance up to 5,000 RPM
- Valve clearance required for installation
Stage 5 Specifications
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Intake Duration: 199°
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Exhaust Duration: 218°
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Intake Cam Lift: 0.296"
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Exhaust Cam Lift: 0.323"
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Lobe Separation Angle: 108°
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Valve Clearance: Required
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RPM Rating: 5,000 RPM
Installation & Break-In
This camshaft is designed as a drop-in installation on most engines, with no modifications normally required. Colt Cams recommends upgraded valve springs for engines that will operate above 3,000 RPM. Always turn the engine over by hand before starting it and verify proper timing and valve clearances.
For initial break-in, apply cam lube to the cam lobes, lifter faces, distributor gears, and oil pump gears. Oil the bearing journals and lifter barrels before assembly. Colt Cams recommends running the engine at approximately 1,800–2,000 RPM for 18–20 minutes. A zinc additive is also recommended for initial break-in to provide additional anti-scuff protection.
Important: Always verify valve clearances before installing any camshaft. Upgraded valve springs are recommended for operation above 3,000 RPM.