Thread: Dual plane vs. Single plane intake

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Hey fellas, just changed out the cam on my Camaro and am wondering what the major differences are between a dual and single plane intake. The motor in question is a 350, .040 over , gm crank currently has a Torker2 intake (single plane) topped with a holley 650 carb. The new cam has the following specifics
Cam Style Hydraulic flat tappet
Basic Operating RPM Range 1,600-5,400
Intake Duration at 050 inch Lift 216
Exhaust Duration at 050 inch Lift 216
Duration at 050 inch Lift 216 int./216 exh.
Advertised Intake Duration 272
Advertised Exhaust Duration 272
Advertised Duration 272 int./272 exh.
Intake Valve Lift with Factory Rocker Arm Ratio 0.454 in.
Exhaust Valve Lift with Factory Rocker Arm Ratio 0.454 in.
Valve Lift with Factory Rocker Arm Ratio 0.454 int./0.454 exh. lift
Lobe Separation (degrees) 110
Intake Valve Lash 0.000 in.
Exhaust Valve Lash 0.000 in.

Now with the previous more aggressive cam the Torker2 intake seemed to do well, with the new cam (installed yesterday) the engine feels a little less responsive on the low end. My understanding is that the dual plane is more for low end response, so I was wondering if it would behoove me to use the dual plane I have in the garage. I dont wanna waste my time pulling stuff out if there really is no difference hence I am here seeking the wisdom of those far more knowledgeable than I.

Cam was broken in at 2500rpm for an hour with 30 weight oil and Comp cams break in additive. will be readjusting the valves tomorrow as I hear minor lifter noise after break in and an hours worth of driving. tends to get a little miss after a bit of driving and not sure what exactly that could be. its not constant though I did notice a little arcing of number 3 boot to header.

With that low of an rpm range, better stick with a dual plane intake.

Thanks Dave. I certainly dont plan to be racing this thing hence the cam choice. Does the dual plane offer a better low end response potential as well?

Yup, dual plane is a low rpm intake for torque. A single plane doesn't usually start working good til about 2800 rpm and up... Trades low end torque for top end horsepower... Dual plane is for sure the better choice for yours.

Thanks again Dave! Will change it out tomorrow for sure then. The 2800 rpm sounds about right on the current intake. I know I have to really feed it to get it going but somewhere close to 3k it wakes up. Thanks for your help
-Peace-

You're certainly welcome, Jon