💥 Overview
 
The Vortex 226/234 Undercover is the stealth weapon for small block Ford enthusiasts who want to dominate the street and strip without losing real-world drivability. Designed for 5.0L roller blocks and performance-oriented small blocks, this grind delivers that unmistakable lope with brutal midrange torque and crisp throttle response.
 
With 226°/234° duration @ .050”, this cam wakes up the engine’s breathing, producing a hard-hitting power curve from 2000 to 6400 RPM. Available in 108°, 110°, and 112° lobe separations, the Undercover lets you fine-tune your build for anything from choppy street muscle to refined EFI performance.
 
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⚙️ Camshaft Specifications
• Duration @ .050”: 226° intake / 234° exhaust
• Advertised Duration (@ .006”): ~256° intake / ~266° exhaust
• Lobe Lift: .328” intake / .349” exhaust
• Valve Lift (1.6:1 Rockers): .525” intake / .558” exhaust
• Available Lobe Separation Angles: 108° · 110° · 112°
• Installed Intake Centerline (ICL): 107°
• RPM Range: 2000 – 6400 RPM
• Idle Quality: Aggressive Street / Street-Lopey
• Ideal Use: Naturally Aspirated or Mild Power-Adder Builds
 
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🧭 Valve Timing Events @ 0.050” Lift
 
108° LSA
• Intake Opens: 5° BTDC
• Intake Closes: 41° ABDC
• Exhaust Opens: 52° BBDC
• Exhaust Closes: 2° ATDC
• Overlap: ≈11°
• Character: Sharpest midrange hit, most aggressive idle, reduced vacuum
 
110° LSA (STANDARD)
• Intake Opens: 3° BTDC
• Intake Closes: 43° ABDC
• Exhaust Opens: 50° BBDC
• Exhaust Closes: 4° ATDC
• Overlap: ≈7°
• Character: Balanced street/strip profile with responsive torque curve
 
112° LSA
• Intake Opens: 1° BTDC
• Intake Closes: 45° ABDC
• Exhaust Opens: 48° BBDC
• Exhaust Closes: 6° ATDC
• Overlap: ≈3°
• Character: Smoothest idle, best vacuum, ideal for EFI and power brakes
 
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🔩 Recommended Valvetrain Components
• Valve Springs: Dual springs rated around 130 lbs seat / 350 lbs open minimum
(e.g., Comp Cams 986-16 or equivalent)
• Pushrods: 5/16” or 3/8” wall hardened chromoly
• Lifters: Hydraulic roller lifters (RETROFIT tie-bar style)
• Rocker Arms: 1.6:1 roller rockers recommended (1.7 optional for more lift)
• Valve Seals & Guides: Positive seals with minimum .550” lift clearance
 
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🏁 Recommended Torque Converter & Gearing
 
Street Performance (110° LSA)
• Converter Stall: 2500–2800 RPM
• Rear Gear: 3.55–3.73
• Character: Excellent throttle response and driveability
 
Street/Strip (108° LSA)
• Converter Stall: 2800–3200 RPM
• Rear Gear: 3.73–4.11
• Character: Strong launch and midrange punch
 
Street EFI (112° LSA)
• Converter Stall: 2200–2500 RPM
• Rear Gear: 3.31–3.55
• Character: Smooth idle, strong vacuum for power brakes and EFI stability
 
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🔧 Best Applications
• 289 / 302 roller block street and strip builds
• 5.0L Mustangs or vintage SBFs with performance heads and headers
• Works with both EFI and carbureted setups
• Ideal for 9.5:1+ compression ratios
• Compatible with mild nitrous or small supercharger systems
 
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The Vortex 226/234 Undercover –
Quiet confidence. Hidden aggression. Real street power.