Adjustable Straight-Cut Cam Gear Set

Factory helical gears are known to generate axial thrust, pushing the camshaft against the thrust bearing. This leads to increased friction, heat, and wear on the engine case. By switching to this straight-cut steel gear set, you eliminate these lateral loads entirely. This ensures the camshaft remains perfectly centered, reducing parasitic drag and freeing up valuable horsepower that would otherwise be lost. The primary advantage of this EMPI kit is its adjustability, allowing for precise cam degreeing. Unlike fixed-position gears, this set features a multi-point bolt pattern, enabling engine builders to advance or retard cam timing to achieve the desired powerband characteristics – whether for low-end torque in a heavier vehicle or high-RPM power in a lightweight buggy. Constructed from high-strength, wide-profile steel with wide-profile teeth, these gears provide increased surface contact and durability to withstand aggressive camshaft profiles and high loads. The kit includes Grade 8 mounting bolts and specialized washers for secure installation. This cam gear set is specifically designed for use with 3-bolt performance camshafts. The precision machining ensures exact tolerances and minimal lash, contributing to a quieter and more efficient operation, though it is known to produce a characteristic mechanical "whine" associated with serious VW engine builds. This kit is compatible with a wide range of Volkswagen models, including Type 1 Beetle and Bug (1946-1979), Karmann Ghia (1956-1974), Type 2 Bus, Transporter, and Kombi (1950-1971), Type 3 Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback (1961-1973), and Type 181 Thing (1973-1975). It also fits custom engines based on 1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc upright engines, including stroker builds.