In 2017 Harley Davidson introduced their new engine design that they named the Milwaukee Eight (M8). From the cylinders down, the M8 engine is pretty much the same as past years: 45-degree cylinders, common crank pin, and uneven firing order. Single fire ignitions are still standard. The cylinder heads, however, have a completely new design. They have a pent-roof combustion chamber with four valves and two spark plugs each.
Dave Mackie Engineering (DME) has reshaped Harley cylinder heads and added a second plug for many years; we have done thousands of them. We have also been racing with and recommending single-fire ignition systems since the early 1980’s. It is this background that gives us valuable insight into understanding what the Harley M8 needs for a camshaft for maximum street or racing performance. There are a lot of differences from Harley cams of past years.
When the M8 came out, the rush was on to be first to the aftermarket with camshafts for it. This rush resulted in some good, and some not-so-good camshafts.
With a good exhaust system, free-flowing air cleaner, and even a mediocre camshaft, the power increase was amazing. A free-flowing exhaust system and air cleaner alone can easily add 20 horsepower. Unfortunately, in many cases, it was the camshaft, good or not-so-good, that got most of the credit.
DME did not rush. After much research, analysis, and testing I designed three different camshafts. Two of them are bolt-ins. Over the past several years customers have seen that they will meet or beat anything for their intended purpose. All make great power, have a great sound, and have a quiet valvetrain. You can study them here on this website.
