History of Kelford Cams
From Local Hot Rodders to Global Racers
In the world of high-performance automotive engineering, few names carry the weight and legacy of Kelford Cams. Founded in 1968 by Norm Kelly & Ron Rutherford (Kel-Ford) in Christchurch, New Zealand. Kelford Cams began as a humble engineering camshaft regrinding workshop, catering primarily to local hot rodders with a passion for speed and performance to international powerhouse.
Precision engineering for automotive innovation.
Founded in 1968 by engineer Norm Kelly and racer / tuner Ron Rutherford. The origins of Kelford Cams trace back to a small workshop in Christchurch, New Zealand, where Norm Kelly and Ron Rutherford shared a vision of revolutionizing camshaft technology. Combining their expertise in engineering and a passion for automotive performance, the duo embarked on a mission to unlock the full potential of internal combustion engines. Their shared commitment to quality craftsmanship and precision engineering laid the foundation for what would soon become a legendary enterprise.
Ron Rutherford was a prominent single seater driver competing in his Zephyr Special
FOUNDING FATHER
Errol Inwood and Ron Rutherford first opened the speedway in 1974
Formula Ford
On August 12, 1994 Kelford signed an agreement with Motorsport New Zealand to manufacture camshafts for Formula Ford competitors according to a specific homologated specification for the class.
Regrinding Workshop to Racing Engine Dominance:
2002-2013
Formerly known as Kelford Camtech owned by Kevin Ban, a prolific race car engine builder. As demand for performance camshaft re-grinding grew, the company imported and sold a catalogue of valve train parts. In early 2006, Kelford installed the southern hemisphere’s first masterless CNC cam grinder, allowing it to expand into an international operation. Kelford Camtech was rebranded as the infamous Kelford Cams!
The Evolutionary Journey:
Armed with ingenuity and a relentless pursuit of perfection
Kevin Ban was the third owner of Kelford Camtech and focused on producing high-quality components for the motorsport industry. The company has gained a reputation for excellence with a strong emphasis on quality control and innovative design.
Camshafts have been utilized by top racers in various categories, including NZ V8 Touring cars, Formula Ford, HQ series drivers, and Mini7 hotshots. World Champion jet sprinters incorporate cams in professional engines builds.
Kevin's extensive background as a race car engine builder has provided him with invaluable knowledge to best serve his customers, and Kelford Camtech continues to refine their products to meet the evolving needs of their clientele. Rebranding to Kelford Cams within this time.
2010 Award Winner
Kelford Cams experienced significant growth under Kevin Ban's leadership in the US, Australia & Japan markets by refining products and expanding customer base.
Camshafts and valve train parts are highly sought after by performance enthusiasts, professional racing teams, and engine builders worldwide to achieve optimal gains.
V8 Supercars
For 15 years, Kelford 'controlled spec' camshafts have been utilized by New Zealand V8 Touring cars. We provide research and testing support to facilitate the development of the class. Stone Brothers Racing used Kelford Cams from 2007-2009, and their engines won the championship for Triple 8 using Kelford Cams. In 2009, we initiated work with SBR and 888 on the controlled valve-train package for V8 Supercar.
In 2013, Tony Gault acquired Kelford Cams and embarked on a significant investment program. Kevin Ban has continued to work with the company to maintain continuity. Kelford Cams has invested in state-of-the-art machinery, systems, and expertise since 2013, enabling them to offer one of the most successful R&D programs in the performance camshaft and valve train market today. Kelford is the go-to company for teams and businesses seeking innovative solutions for gaining optimal engine performance. A further enhanced rebrand was completed into the brand you see today!
Precision Engineering Equipment
Kelford Cams' growth and product line expansion depend on investing in research and development. This allows for innovation, optimization, improvement, expansion, and customization of products, keeping Kelford Cams competitive and leading the camshaft manufacturing industry. Refurbished original equipment from the 1960s, along with state-of-the-art machinery, produce high-quality solutions tailored to the unique requirements of individual customers or specific engine builds.
MILESTONES & SETBACKS
The Resilience & Ingenuity of Kelford Cams
The path to success was not without its challenges
In 2011, Kelford Cams faced its greatest adversity yet when the devastating Christchurch earthquake rocked the city to its core. The destruction wrought by the quake threatened to derail the company's progress and undo decades of hard work. Kelford Cams was not spared from the aftermath, with its facilities sustaining damage and production grinding to a halt. Through perseverance and ingenuity, Kelford Cams staff & management swiftly resumed operations and expanded then introduced innovative new camshaft profiles, establishing the company's ability to bounce back stronger than ever resonated with enthusiasts and professionals alike, reaffirming its status as a trusted partner in the pursuit of automotive excellence.
What began as a local workshop soon evolved into an international powerhouse, supplying high-performance camshafts to street cars and professional racing engines around the globe.
Built for High Performance
Kelford Cams is committed to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. We invest in research and development to push the boundaries of camshaft design and manufacturing. Our state-of-the-art facilities and advanced machining technologies ensure that we deliver camshaft solutions that exceed expectations.Â
