If you're pushing your engine to the limit — whether it's a B58, S58, or a high-revving RS3 — dialing in your camshafts and springs can make the difference between “just fast” and “jaw-dropper.” XLR8 Performance just raised the bar with the latest from Kelford Cams. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Camshafts & Springs Matter

Cams determine when your valves open, how far, and for how long. These timings are pivotal for optimizing airflow into and out of the combustion chamber. But to take advantage of aggressive cam specs, you often need equally capable valve springs; without them, you risk valve float or worse at high RPMs.

Kelford’s reputation is established in motorsport settings, which means their components are built to endure heavy loads, high RPM, and extreme thermal and mechanical stress. XLR8 is now bringing these parts to you.

What’s New on XLR8

XLR8 Performance is offering a suite of Kelford products: camshafts, upgraded valve springs, and stage setups for several performance motors. Let’s break down the offerings.

B58 (Gen1 / Gen1.5 / Gen2) — “Stage 1” Cams

• Gen 1 — Kelford 270° / 268° cams with 10.30mm / 10.15mm lift for B58 Gen1.

• Gen 1.5 — similar specs (270°/268°, 10.30mm / 10.15mm) but tailored to the nuances of the Gen1.5 block/head design.

• Gen 2 / A90 — same general specs, adapted for the Gen2/B58 A90’s geometry.

These are labeled “Stage 1,” meaning they give a noticeable bump in power (especially up top) without making the car totally unruly in daily driving.

To complement the cams, they’re offering Kelford B58 / S58 Extreme Valve Springs (KVS58‑BTX) — needed to maintain control at higher lifts and RPM.

RS3 / TT RS

• Cams — Kelford 250° / 268° with ~10.75mm / 10.25mm lift for the 273‑engine RS3 TT RS platform. These are more aggressive; designed for substantial gains, especially when paired with supporting mods.

• Valve Springs — The KVS273 Beehive Springs help resist float, reduce weight, and preserve reliable valve control under higher-stress conditions.

S58

For those pushing BMW’s high‑performance twin‑turbo inline‑6:

• Cams — The 288° / 268° (10.30mm / 10.15mm lift) camshafts for S58 (part number 358‑A) are aimed at extracting rev‑happy power while maintaining drivability.

• Valve Springs — Same B58/S58 Extreme (KVS58‑BTX), built for durability under load.

What to Expect: Gains & Trade‑Offs

Installation & Tuning: Key Tips

• Spring upgrade is essential when using higher‑lift/aggressive profile cams to prevent float. XLR8 offers valve springs for each platform to match the cams.

• ** ECU / Tune** — Stock calibration won’t take full advantage; you’ll need a proper ECU or piggyback tune that can adjust timing, fueling, etc., to match the cam’s airflow characteristics.

• Valve clearance / geometry — Make sure your engine has the correct shim‑or‑shimless configuration, correct head geometry, and any other adjustments (e.g. lash, rocker preload) needed.

• Break‑in — Use break‑in oil; do a proper break‑in procedure to ensure the cams and springs seat properly.

• Supporting mods — Intake, exhaust, fuel system, and cooling might need upgrades depending on how far you push things.

Is It for You?

If you drive often, want performance without going full race car, these Stage 1 / mildly aggressive cam setups from Kelford are a strong option. They strike a balance between sound, feel, and usable power. If you already have supporting mods (or plan to), this is where you’ll feel the biggest return.

But, if your priority is ultra‑refined, quiet daily drivability, you might find the trade‑offs (noise, lower RPM torque) a bit too much.