Here's what you need to consider:
* Lifter Type: The camshaft must be compatible with the lifters installed in your engine. A hydraulic roller camshaft will *not* work with flat tappet lifters, and vice-versa. You need to know what kind of lifters you have before selecting a cam.
* Engine specifics: Early 305s may have different oiling systems than later ones, affecting cam choice. You might need to research your specific year and model of the 305.
* Physical dimensions: Although most small-block Chevy cams are similar, minor dimensional differences can exist. It's rare, but you should check the specifications of the cam to ensure it will fit properly.
* LSA (Lobe Separation Angle): This is the angle between the intake and exhaust lobes. The LSA impacts the engine's power curve and can significantly affect performance. While a cam with a different LSA *might* fit, the performance result will likely be far from optimal.
In short, you need to know the specifications of your 305 (year, model, lifter type) and carefully check the specifications of any replacement camshaft to ensure compatibility. Using an incompatible camshaft can result in serious engine damage.
