I thought about going with a regular flat tappet for my 440 build in my 71' Roadrunner, but recently have some added funds. Going to be buying from Lunati as I used one of their cams in a small block chevy with awesome results.

My questions are what are the big benefits to having a roller cam? Which is better: solid or hydraulic roller? Do you have to adjust the valvetrain the same with a solid roller like you do a solid tappet?

My engine build consists of:

-1978 RV Block .030 over
-Flat top six pack replacement pistons (L2355)
-Ported 452 Heads (2.14/1.81 valves)
-EZ EFI System
-Headman Elite Headers
-All updated ignition (EFI Needs it)

-4 speed car with 3.55 or 3.91 gears

I have two street cars with solid roller cams and so far I am very happy with them, one is a .030 over 440 and the other one is a stroker small block.
The 440 has approx 2500 street miles and the SB has about 3400 street miles, also 18 1/4 mile passes.
I have checked the lash two times on the 440 and there was no ajustment needed.
The SB has been the same.
But if you are going to run a solid roller my is that you need to make sure the rest of the valve train is up to the task, by that I mean good lifers Very good rockerarms and valve springs.

HYD or solid? They are far from the same and should not be confused. HYD rollers are fine for low RPM street and even some mild strip engines,solids will be more work but worth it for strip and serious street builds. Whats the question?

"My questions are what are the big benefits to having a roller cam?"

Independance from overpriced boutique high zinc motor oil, more hp and torque throughout the powerband, often noticeably better/stronger idle quality as well.

"Which is better: solid or hydraulic roller?"

Solid is the ultimate for performance use but there are many excellent running cars with hydraulics out there also.

"Do you have to adjust the valvetrain the same with a solid roller like you do a solid tappet?"

Yes you do.

For the cam to match up with the rest of your parts a hydraulic roller would be my choice. Let the solid rollers be for those who want super low ETs. The hydraulic roller is set it and forget it, and from your buildup that's what you want.

Now OF COURSE you could use a small solid roller grind but why bother? the hydraulic makes more sense.

R.