The objective of this study is to understand the dynamic characterictics of OHV type valve trains and to design and optimal cam profile which will improve engine performance. A numerical model for valve train dynamics is presented, which aims at both accuracy and computational efficiency. The lumped mass model and distributed parameter model were used to describe the valve train dynamics. Nonlinear characterictics in the valve spring behavior were included in the model. Comprehensive experiments were carried out concerning the valve train dynamics, and the model was tuned based on the test results. The dynamic model was used in designing an optimal cam profile. Because the objective function has many local minima, a conventional local optimizer cannot be used to find an optimal solution. A modified adaptive random search method is successfully employed to solve the problem. Cam lobe area could be increased up to 7.3% without any penalties in kinematic and dynamic behaviors of the valve train.