The idea was to pull a (hopefully) running small-block then put it through its paces on the dyno, first with the stock cam then again after a cam swap. We decided to test our theory by snatching up an engine from the yard to demonstrate how effective a simple cam swap can be. Sure, a stock truck or passenger car 350 might not pump out the ponies like those fancy engines, but the savings offered by shopping at the junkyard can provide some serious cash for upgrades. We know, the powerplants are often caked with grease and grime and are usually a far cry from a shiny, new crate engine, but they don't cost crate engine money either, now do they! Heck, yanking an engine from the local Pick Your Part doesn't cost as much as a typical rebuild kit, let alone an assembled, ready-to-run small-block. If you are looking for the best-kept secret in the performance industry, look no further than your local wrecking yard.
