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How many camshafts does an DOHC V8 engine have?

A DOHC V8 typically uses four camshafts.


In practical terms, "DOHC" means there are dual overhead camshafts on each bank of the V8, one set for the intake valves and one set for the exhaust valves. With two banks, that totals four camshafts, enabling independent timing of intake and exhaust events and supporting advanced valvetrain technology used in modern performance and luxury cars.


What DOHC means for a V8


DOHC stands for dual overhead camshaft. In a V8, having two camshafts per bank allows separate control of the intake and exhaust valves, increasing breathing efficiency, RPM potential, and compatibility with variable valve timing systems.


Camshaft configuration in DOHC V8s


Most contemporary DOHC V8 engines mount two camshafts on each cylinder bank — one for the intake valves and one for the exhaust valves — for a total of four camshafts. The camshafts drive either directly or via pushrods/rockers the valvetrain components that open and close the valves.


Why this setup matters


Four cams offer precise valve timing across a wide RPM range, improving throttle response, efficiency, and high-RPM capability. They also facilitate advanced features like variable valve timing and lift control on both banks.


Common variants and caveats


While the vast majority of DOHC V8s use four camshafts, there are rare configurations (typically older or specialized engines) that may differ, such as certain engines employing a single overhead camshaft per bank with different valvetrain designs. In standard consumer automotive applications, four camshafts remain the norm.


Summary


In summary, a typical DOHC V8 engine has four camshafts — two on each cylinder bank, one governing the intake valves and one governing the exhaust valves. This arrangement supports refined timing control, performance, and modern variable valve timing.

How many camshafts does a 5.0 have?


in order for the engine to utilize existing Modular production line tooling, therefore 5.0L engine also falls into the Modular family. This engine is an all aluminum 32-valve (4 valve) DOHC V-8 engine that features Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) providing improved power and fuel economy.



How many camshafts are in a DOHC?


two camshafts
A dual overhead cam, double overhead cam, or twin-cam engine has two camshafts over each bank of the cylinder head, one for the intake valves and another for the exhaust valves. Therefore there are two camshafts for a straight engine and a total of four camshafts for a V engine or a flat engine.



How many camshafts does a Chevy V-8 have?


V engines have two rows of cylinders, so two cylinder heads, so four camshafts.



Do V8s have two camshafts?


In a double overhead cam (DOHC) V8, there are four camshafts, two for each head, rather than a single cam in the bottom of the engine's valley.


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Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.