STK Performance VW 8v Hydraulic & Solid Lifter Camshaft Kits

Bring your classic VW 8-valve to life with a valvetrain package engineered as a system. STK Performance offers VW 8v camshaft kits in both hydraulic and solid lifter configurations—paired with forged performance valves, racing valve spring kits, and chromoly retainers. Choose a complete, drop-in bundle or mix-and-match individual component kits to build exactly what your engine and goals demand.

Why upgrade the 8-valve valvetrain?

Even on boosted or well-sorted naturally aspirated builds, the camshaft and valvetrain govern how effectively your cylinders fill and empty. A matched system:

  • Raises usable power across the rev range
  • Improves throttle response and mid-range torque
  • Extends safe RPM by controlling valve float
  • Increases reliability at sustained high load

Two paths: Hydraulic vs Solid lifter kits

Hydraulic lifter cam kits

  • Ideal for street and fast-road cars that value quiet operation and low maintenance.
  • Broad, flexible torque curve with strong drivability.
  • Simple setup: set lifter preload and go.

Solid lifter cam kits

  • Built for high-RPM track, rally and drag applications.
  • Sharper ramp rates and stable valve control at elevated lift/duration.
  • Requires periodic lash checks—rewarded with razor-sharp response and top-end power.

Camshaft profiles that match your build

From torquey street grinds to aggressive competition profiles, STK camshafts are cut for the popular VW EA827-family 8v platforms. Pair them with the correct springs and lifters to suit:

  • Street/fast-road: strong mid-range, stock-like manners
  • Track/rally: extended rev ceiling and consistent high-load performance
  • Drag/competition: maximum airflow and high-RPM stability

(Ask STK for the recommended profile for your displacement, compression, induction, and intended rev limit.)

Forged performance valves

  • One-piece forged construction for strength and durability
  • Precision stem finish for low friction in the guide
  • Hardened tips to resist wear with higher-rate springs
  • Optimized head/seat geometry to promote airflow and sealing
    Available as intake, exhaust, or full sets to match your chosen cam and spring rate.

Racing valve spring kits

  • High-tensile performance springs engineered to control float at your target RPM
  • Matched seat and open pressures for the selected cam ramp rates and lift
  • Springs & Retainers
  • Designed to minimize coil bind risk while protecting lifters and cam lobes

Chromoly retainers

  • 4130 chromoly retainers provide exceptional strength with reduced mass versus typical OE stamped steel
  • Improved valvetrain stability and faster valve control at high RPM
  • Precision-machined to suit STK spring kits 

Build it your way: full kits or individual components

  • Complete Camshaft + Valvetrain Kits
    A curated, ready-to-install package: camshafts (hydraulic or solid), lifters, forged valves, racing springs, chromoly retainers, —matched to your goals. Ideal for fresh builds or full refreshes.
  • Individual Component Kits
    Already have parts you like? Order camshafts only, spring/retainer packages, forged valve sets, or lifter kits à la carte to complement your current setup.

Installation & setup notes

  • Always check piston-to-valve and retainer-to-seal clearances when increasing lift.
  • Verify spring installed height and coil-bind clearance.
  • For solid lifter cams, set cold lash to STK’s spec; for hydraulic, set correct preload.
  • Use high-zinc break-in oil on first start and follow cam bedding procedure.
  • Degreeing the cam with a vernier gear helps center the powerband precisely.
  • Tuning (fuel/ignition/boost) is recommended to unlock full gains.

Who it’s for

  • Street builds wanting stronger mid-range without sacrificing manners
  • Track and rally cars needing reliable high-RPM control
  • Forced-induction setups seeking stable valve control under boost
  • Restorations that deserve modern materials and precision

Why STK Performance

  • Platform focus: Deep experience with VW 8v applications
  • Matched systems: Components designed to work together under real-world loads
  • Flexibility: Full kits for simplicity or component kits for custom builds
  • Support: Clear setup guidance and profile recommendations for your exact combination

Ready to spec your kit?
Tell STK your engine code, induction (NA/turbo), compression, intended RPM limit, and primary use (street/track/drag). You’ll get a recommended Hydraulic or Solid Lifter Camshaft Kit with forged valves, racing springs, and chromoly retainers—as a complete bundle or individual components to suit your plan.

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