PRI 2025: Jesel Highlights Ford And MoPar Valvetrain Components

Eventually becoming top NASCAR and NHRA teams’ go-to source for high-quality valvetrain components, Jesel Valvetrain Innovation began with a Camaro build in one hobbyist’s garage. Today, the company supplies some of the best valvetrain components in the industry to enthusiasts both at the track and on the street. At PRI 2025, its major focus was on iconic Ford power and the emerging Gen III HEMI market. 

Big On Big Fords

In competition, cam timing is everything. That’s why the pros at Jesel have spent decades perfecting camshaft belt drive systems. One item the company highlighted at this year’s PRI show was a new big-block Ford belt drive. Designed for 460-based 385 series engines, the drive features an added idler tensioner and a hearty Gates PowerGrip belt that, at 35 mm, is roughly 10 mm wider than typical drive belts. According to Jesel Sales Manager Bob McDonald, the firm wanted to create a drive that could handle the boost, lift pressure, and spring pressure created by today’s high-performance builds.

Jesel also showcased four different rocker arms for the Blue Oval’s mighty Godzilla engine. For starters, the company offers an OEM replacement rocker that requires absolutely no machining to the engine’s head. From there, enthusiasts can step up to Pro Aluminum, Sportsman Steel, or Pro Steel rockers. Naturally, each tier features different capabilities and prices, with Pro Aluminum being a great choice for built, naturally aspirated applications. Moving further up the ladder, Sportsman Steel and Pro Steel are excellent options for boosted builds and builds that feature high lift pressure and high spring pressure. Also, in case you were wondering, Jesel does offer a slick camshaft belt drive system for the Godzilla engine that, like the 460-based kit, incorporates an idler tensioner and a sturdy belt.

Heavy On HEMIs

Since we’re still discussing camshaft belt drives, it’s a good time to mention Jesel’s Gen III HEMI system. In addition to being a sturdy upgrade from factory equipment, Jesel’s Gen III HEMI camshaft belt drive system incorporates a dual idler tensioner to accommodate the HEMI’s large cam center. Additionally, the company was promoting a number of valvetrain solutions for the Gen III platform, including OEM direct drop-in lifters and the steel, dog bone-style lifters MoPar features in its Drag Pack option. The steel dog bone design, regularly proven in cars that pull over 10,000 rpm, features Pro Steel rockers, ARP hardware, and full needle bearings.

Whether you’re pushing boost through a 460-based bruiser, chasing big power with a Godzilla, or spinning a HEMI deep into five-digit RPM territory, Jesel’s latest lineup proves that the right valvetrain isn’t just a supporting cast — it’s the foundation for keeping horsepower reliable, repeatable, and race-ready.