325i and 320i/520i camshaft is same?

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markus_74
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Post Tue Jul 08, 2014 12:41 pm

My camshaft is badly worn and I need to replace it, but I found good 320/520i camshaft.

I have read wiki that said even 320i camshaft can be use at 325i cyl head.

it mean it is no different? or may be reduce the power, timming etc?

what is the negative?

thank you
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Grrrmachine
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Post Tue Jul 08, 2014 2:07 pm

The 320i can be used, but it will drop your performance. As the Wiki states:

"The 320i cam has about 250 degrees duration whereas the 325i cam is about 258 and has about 1mm more lift at the valve. "

This means that if you use a 320i cam, your valves will be closed for longer (not good) and will not open as much (not good).
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AlpineCab
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Post Tue Jul 08, 2014 3:42 pm

so what about other way round - will a 325 cam in a 320 head boost performance?
Grrrmachine
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Post Tue Jul 08, 2014 3:46 pm

no, it'll probably cause the pistons to mash into the valves and wreck the engine, due to the different valve sizes and piston shapes.
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Post Tue Jul 08, 2014 3:58 pm

Grrrmachine wrote:no, it'll probably cause the pistons to mash into the valves and wreck the engine, due to the different valve sizes and piston shapes.
Not correct!

320i has flat topped pistons,so there will be no contact.
I ran a stock 325i cam in my 2.7 for years with no problems.