Topic: Using '83-'95 SRC-9 camshaft in '96-'02 MFI 2.5

[erickuntz]

Anyone have experience with using a SRC-9 camshaft from a '83 to '95 2.5L in '96 to '02 MFI 2.5L engine?

Any fitment issues? I believe the cam (other than the lobe profile) are physically the same. Can anyone confirm this?

Will it work with the factory programmed ECM in the '96 to '02? Any issues with setting the MIL and not passing a smog check?


Original factory cam specs:    188I/192E @ .050 lift, advertised duration 256I/260E, lobe lift .255I/.259E, valve lift w/1.6 to 1 rockers .407I/.415E, C/L 108I/108E
SRC-9 cam specs:                 196I/196E @ .050 lift, advertised duration 270I/270E, lobe lift .265I/.265E, valve lift w/1.6 to 1 rockers .424I/.424E, C/L 114I/110E

I don't want to order something I can't use :-)
Thanks.

[Jeffy]

I'm pretty sure they're identical except for the profile.  I know people have installed the Mopar Performance Purple cams from the 90's into their TJ's.  Not sure about SMOG but I'd assume minimal if any differences.  Technically, both cam's are OE and have been approved for sale in CA.

[erickuntz]

I'm pretty sure they're identical except for the profile.  I know people have installed the Mopar Performance Purple cams from the 90's into their TJ's.  Not sure about SMOG but I'd assume minimal if any differences.  Technically, both cam's are OE and have been approved for sale in CA.

Thanks for your input Jeffy.
That being the case, my only concern now is, will the ECM tolerate the new profile or will it get stuck in open loop and set the MIL so it won't pass smog.
Thanks again.

[Jeffy]

Thanks for your input Jeffy.
That being the case, my only concern now is, will the ECM tolerate the new profile or will it get stuck in open loop and set the MIL so it won't pass smog.
Thanks again.

I've never heard of anyone having that issue.  I wouldn't even consider it a mild change.  Some of the old purple cams had way more lift and duration.

Really though if you're worried, this should be the correct cam for a TJ.  https://www.omix-ada.com/camshaft-2-5l-96-02-jeep-wrangler-tj.html

Also, Comp Cams is able to do custom grinds.