So we decided to just rebuild my 3.8L series2 motor instead of replacing it. We are going to put a cam in it, anyone have any sugestions? i'd like it to be around $200-250. Also headers, pacesetters?

 

As far as I can tell, even finding an OTS cam for less than 300 for the 3800 will be difficult. I think you'll find that most people here will suggest a custom grind, fitted to your exact setup. Saving for a few more weeks to get years of performance along the lines of exactly what you want is well worth it IMO.

For headers, make sure they are at least coated, otherwise they'll rust through in a year.

 

I rebuilt my engine last year. I spent about a G on everything including a new clutch. Your gonna find the most expensive part of the rebuild is the gasket sets and main bolt and head bolt sets along with rings and..... I did all the work myself so I saved some serious $$ I made friends with an old timer that use to build race engines for my dad so when I told him who I was he let me use his ENORMUS machine shop for free. The Cam is the only thing I didnt replace and I wish I had. Just wasnt in the budget. Cam, rockers, lifters were expensive I cant remember but I think it was like an extra $500 for everything. If you have the cash, go for it but with stock exhaust and intake, ur defeating the purpose.

 

Cams are nice, but new ones will be upwards of $300. Stock lifters and rockers are fine for most cam applications, but the springs are another story. Aggressive cams require a different spring, and sometimes a double-roller timing chain. There are some mild cams that are fine with a new oem t-chain, tensioner, and stock valvetrain.

 

My dad and I have been messin with cams for years. For these v6s, theres not too many options, but odds are you will be able to find somethin you like. just dont go too radical because it makes it a pain to drive on the street. Also,like musicman said, you are prolly gonna need a whole bunch of new top end parts in order for it to perform the best.