Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep 6.1L HEMI V8 (2005–2010, Non-VVT)
 
🔥 Purpose & Identity
The Red Line Vortex 226 Dominator was engineered to deliver one thing — control through torque.
This grind is built for the experienced street racer who wants power on command, a deep, hard idle, and that unmistakable Red Line aggression that makes a car sound alive even at 800 rpm.
This cam owns the middle ground — it’s powerful without being temperamental, aggressive without losing manners, and its tone says everything you need to know before the light turns green.
If you’re chasing a HEMI that commands the road, this is the grind.
 
⚙️ Camshaft Specifications
Engine Fitment: Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep 6.1L HEMI V8 (Non-VVT, Non-MDS)
Camshaft Type: Hydraulic Roller
Duration @ .050" – 226° Intake / 226° Exhaust
Advertised Duration: ~282°
Lobe Lift: .334"
Valve Lift (1.65 Rockers): .551"
Lobe Separation Angle (LSA): 110°, 112°, 114°
Standard LSA: 114° (Installed 4° advanced → 110° ICL)
RPM Range: 1,800 – 6,200 rpm
Idle Character: Deep lope, strong vacuum, and sharp throttle snap
 
📊 Valve Timing Events @ .050" (Cam Installed 4° Advanced)
LSA 110° (ICL 106° / ECL 114°)
Intake Opens 8° BTDC • Intake Closes 38° ABDC • Exhaust Opens 51° BBDC • Exhaust Closes 3° ATDC • Overlap ≈ 11°
 
LSA 112° (ICL 108° / ECL 116°)
Intake Opens 6° BTDC • Intake Closes 40° ABDC • Exhaust Opens 53° BBDC • Exhaust Closes 1° ATDC • Overlap ≈ 7°
 
LSA 114° (ICL 110° / ECL 118°) (Standard)
Intake Opens 4° BTDC • Intake Closes 42° ABDC • Exhaust Opens 55° BBDC • Exhaust Closes 1° BTDC • Overlap ≈ 3°
 
⚖️ LSA Power & Idle Characteristics
110° LSA:
Tight, choppy idle and explosive low-end torque — ideal for lightweight or manual cars.
112° LSA:
Perfect all-around mix — strong torque, clear lope, and smooth drivability.
114° LSA (Standard):
Broadest powerband with clean idle tone and stable vacuum for heavier vehicles or autos.
 
🏁 Performance Behavior
The Vortex 226 Dominator transforms the 6.1L from a strong performer into a torque weapon.
Expect 45–55 rear-wheel horsepower and a serious bump in midrange pull.
This cam breathes hard, pulls clean through the upper rpm, and makes the car feel lighter on its feet — ideal for both street/strip builds and heavy HEMIs that need more grunt without over-camming.
It’s smooth enough to drive daily, but the second you hit the throttle, it hits back — hard.
 
⚙️ Recommended Setup & Components
Compression Ratio: 10.3:1 – 11.0:1
Induction: Ported intake or aftermarket manifold, 85–90mm throttle body
Exhaust: Long-tube headers, high-flow midpipe, and performance mufflers
Gearing: 3.23 – 3.92 rear gears
Converter / Clutch:
Automatic: 2,600 – 3,000 rpm stall converter
Manual: Performance clutch rated ≥ 600 lb-ft
 
🔧 Valvetrain & Component Recommendations
Valve Springs: COMP 26918 or PAC-1219 beehive springs
Seat ≈ 135 lb @ 1.800"
Open ≈ 340 lb @ .570"
Coil Bind Height ≈ 1.090" (maintain ≥ .060" clearance)
Retainers & Locks: Steel or titanium retainers, 7° locks
Pushrods: 5/16" hardened chromoly, +0.050" typical
Lifters: OEM hydraulic roller lifters or Johnson/Morel performance set
Rocker Arms: Stock 1.65:1 or upgraded trunnion assemblies
Timing Set: Billet adjustable timing set for accurate degreeing
Valve Seals: Positive Viton-type
 
🧠 Installation & Tuning Notes
Degree cam to confirm installed intake centerline.
Tune idle between 750–825 rpm (112°–114° LSA).
ECU tune required for spark and fueling optimization.
Verify pushrod preload and lifter travel.
Use high-ZDDP oil during break-in.
 
💡 Why Choose the 226 Dominator
For drivers who want that clean, commanding lope and broad powerband, the Vortex 226 Dominator defines balance.
It’s big enough to sound serious and hit hard, but refined enough for true street use.
This cam doesn’t ask for attention — it demands it.
Strong torque. Sharp throttle. Controlled aggression. That’s what being a Dominator means.
 
🏆 The Red Line Cams Advantage
Red Line Cams brings over 35 years of experience designing and grinding performance camshafts.
Every Vortex series cam is made from OEM-quality cam cores, precision-ground, surface-finished, and quality-checked for exact lift and duration accuracy.
When you buy Red Line, you’re buying direct from builders — not a rep reading a catalog.