Why does a big cam act bad on the street

[Mummert]

 

[Jim's Mnt Lab]

I am really enjoying your series on YT. I am replacing all the gaskets on my leaking 84 Bronco II. In your opinion, what modification get the most benefit from a stock engine?

 

[Mummert]

Engines are a balancing act all the time. It would depend on what you were willing to do. Thin .027" MLS head gaskets could be helpful if the parts were flat enough. Better Carb, Duraspark conversion. I'm no 2.8 expert, just an engine guy.
Following along with series, the best "street" engines have good flowing heads and small cams.

 

[bobbywalter]

for drivability

 

[Mummert]

Exactly, good versatility. Good manners in traffic ,decent idle and enough airflow to have a strong mid and upper mids.
In Bronco II I'd consider a lot of work in the top end, manifold and heads and probably the smallest after market cam you could get. Maybe even a stock cam if the air flow was good enough with bigger valves.

 

[Jim's Mnt Lab]

Thank you!