Hamilton Cams Complete Kit for Cummins Engines

Strength, durability, and precision—those are the hallmarks of our Hamilton Cams kit. From forged steel camshafts to DLC-coated tappets and robust pushrods, every component is engineered for maximum performance and reliability. Trust in our decades of research, thousands of dyno tests, and millions of real-world miles to deliver a kit that stands the test of time.

Important Fitment Notice

• If you’ve had your engine block or cylinder head surfaced, please call us for verification to ensure proper kit fitment.
• Intake Valve Lash: 0.010″
• Exhaust Valve Lash: 0.020″

Oil Recommendations

•  Use Valvoline 15W-40 premium blue
• Schaeffer 700 Series 15w-40

The Hamilton Cams Difference

“Innovation slightly faster than imitation.”
We’ve earned this reputation by investing in the research, engineering, and quality manufacturing.

Forged Steel Camshafts

• Tighter Grain Structure: Our 178-208 steel cams are forged, not cut from bar stock—resulting in a more dense, more uniform grain structure.
• Enhanced Longevity: A natural “halo” in grain structure forms on the exterior of the cam during forging, adding a layer of strength for extended service life.

DLC-Coated Tappets

• Gas Carburized & Polished: Each tappet undergoes a meticulous hardening process that gives us the hardness to act as a very stable base metal for the DLC coating
• Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) Coating: This ultra-hard surface finish dramatically reduces friction and wear. While DLC is a big leap forward to lower friction and extend part life, it can be damaged by using incorrect oil, incorrect lash, or experiencing valve float. Thin viscosity oils, do not provide the correct hydro-dynamic wedge flat tappets need. Oils with low  zinc, phosphorous and molybdenum do not provide the additive package needed for a flat tappet.  Lash that is too loose can damage lifters or coating by increasing the impact when lash goes to solid. Make sure your lash is correct. High rpm amplifies the impact of the camshaft to the tappet. High spring pressures and high rpm are discouraged for longevity’s sake.  In these scenarios where viscosity is too low, lash is too much or rpm too high, the film strength is not adequate to keep the tappet and the cam separated. In this case the DLC will be degraded into graphite and will start to decompose and delaminate.

Heavy-Duty Pushrods

• 3500+ lbs Buckling Force: Compared to around 1800 lbs for OEM pushrods, ours drastically reduce deflection at high cylinder pressures.
• Consistent Valve Timing: With less flex, your valvetrain stays precisely in sync—even under extreme conditions.

Upgraded Rocker Arms

• High-Quality Casting: Built to handle intense stress and heat cycles.
• Gas Carburized Ball & Foot: Reduces friction and wear for longer service intervals.
• DLC-Coated Trunnion: Minimizes galling—an all-too-common issue with OEM trunnions—and lowers overall friction in the valvetrain.

Proven Performance & Reliability

• Decades of Experience: Our cams have powered countless diesel engines for millions of road miles and thousands of dyno runs.
• SEMA-Certified (49-State Compliance): This kit is tested and certified for street use in 49 states, giving you peace of mind.

When you choose Hamilton Cams, you’re investing in proven innovation and superior craftsmanship. Experience the confidence that comes from a kit designed to hold up under extreme conditions, and help your Cummins engine deliver reliable power for the long haul.