COMP Cams
ActiveOverview
COMP Cams manufactures high-performance engine components, specializing in camshafts, lifters, valve springs, and rocker arms for automotive aftermarket, motorcycles, and karts. Headquartered in the US with multiple facilities, it serves street and racing applications through a family of performance brands including TCI, FAST, RHS, and ZEX. The company focuses on valvetrain technology and has expanded via acquisitions into related powertrain products.1234
History
Founded in 1976 in Memphis, Tennessee by six partners including Ivar Smiltnieks, Bob Woodard, John McWhirter, Tom Woitesek, Russ Smiltnieks, and Ron Coleman, evolving from earlier drag racing engine work in the 1960s. It grew rapidly in drag racing, moved to its own facility by 1979, and under later leadership invested in technology and acquisitions like Powerhouse Tools, TCI, FAST, ZEX, RHS, Inglese, and Quarter Master from 1999-2008. Acquired by Industrial Opportunity Partners in 2020 as part of its platform including Edelbrock.234
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Camshafts (performance profiles) | High-performance engine timing | $150 - $1,200 |
| Lifters (hydraulic/roller) | Valvetrain durability | $200 - $800 |
| Valve Springs (dual/multiple) | High-RPM stability | $100 - $500 |
| Rocker Arms (shaft/roller) | Precision valve actuation | $300 - $1,500 |
| VThunder (motorcycle cams) | Powersports valvetrain | $200 - $900 |
| GoParts (kart components) | Racing kart engines | $150 - $700 |
Manufacturing
Products are manufactured at facilities in Memphis, Tennessee; Olive Branch and Ashland, Mississippi; and Bronson, Michigan. The company handles in-house production of camshafts and valvetrain components as a core manufacturer.14
Notable Products
- High Energy Camshafts - Street-performance camshafts with balanced idle and power.
- Magnum Roller Lifters - Self-pressurizing lifters for high-RPM durability.
- Beehive Valve Springs - Compact springs reducing weight while maintaining stability.
- Xtreme Energy Series Cams - Aggressive lobe designs for racing power gains.
- TCI Automotive Transmissions - Performance automatic transmissions from acquired brand.
Reputation
COMP Cams is recognized by racers and enthusiasts as a leader in valvetrain innovation, with strong reliability in NHRA and motorsports applications. Professionals value its engineering advancements and broad product testing. Some note higher pricing compared to generic parts, though quality justifies it for performance builds.236