I'm looking for some help figuring out different setups. My problem is this, if you know the specs on about what cam you would like to use (such as looking for a certain amount of power or you want to be able to pass emissions and you know XXX/XXX cam will) how do you know what you want your heads to flow for a "optimal" combination? What is the formula for figuring out what cam to use with heads that flow X amount? Or can this be reverse engineered?

 

Perhaps you should consider the reverse scenario:

1. Determine how much power, etc. you want over what rpm range.

2. Determine which heads and inlet system will deliver the required airflow.

3. Select camshaft timing which will deliver the power,etc. with the parts previously selected.

This can be an iterative process (lots of trial and error).

IMO, camshaft selection is the last step, not the first.

 

It just seems so many people want this cam or you know a certain size cam will pass emissions. I guess for the end user it seems to me it may be easier to pick a cam advertised to work in a certain rpm range or you know what to expect from it than stage 1 or 2 heads or certain flow numbers. If you do want a certain cam why not get the most out of it that you can and get everything working together?
I realize working with engines on paper it's hard to get anything exact. Just trying to learn a little