I refuse to run anything but roller cam bearings with my race roller cams. I made the switch 7 ~ 8 years ago, when the more agressive profiles I began running resulted in a curious wear problem with the "flat" babbit bearings I had been running. The problem even sent us home 2 days into a 3 day event at Maple Grove Raceway Park when the cam froze while coming back down the return lane (good timing).
The problem wasn't caused by running, but during startup. Every time we bumped the engine over, it took a small toll on the bearings. Do it enough times and the bearings would give up.
The top NASCAR touring series use roller cam bearings and they do give some friction savings. But Shaun is right. A very light and low tension ring set will give a really big return. The top ring(s) seal because combustion gasses expand behind them, not because of high radial tension. High tension = high drag. Most ring makers will tell you the rated radial tension of their rings. Some will offer back cutting services or you can back cut yourself to further reduce radial tension and weight for that matter. DO NOT back cut and use an approriate alloy top ring if using Nitrous or supercharging.
Keep in mind, there are a couple of different roller bearing sets to choose from AND be sure that block will accommodate and support them. Also, have someone with past experience with that block (if at all possible) do the work.
Yes, use a roller cam and lifter set. The primary advantage will be the profile. Friction reduction will be a secondary gain.
