Installing a Performance Camshaft on an Engine, instructions

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Installing a performance camshaft is arguable the best decision you can make if you are pushing a lot of torque. On a budget, I recommend a flat-tapped cam from Summit Racing. These are generally the best quality products for the cost. But you may need to shop around depending on what you are hoping to spend.

Drain the coolant and then remove the radiator and then unbolt the fuel pump. Next, remove the distributor and intake manifold. When you remove the rockers, pushrods and lifters ensure you keep these in order in case you want to go back to the original later.

Ideally, you will have a harmonic tool. If you do a lot of engine work you should invest in one of these. However, if this is a one-time project, you may be able to rent one from an auto parts chain.

Remove the oil pan bolts just enough to loosen and drop the oil pan down. You only need to remove the timing cover so total removal of the oil pan is unnecessary. The fewer loose parts the better. The pan gasket may either be a one piece or multi-piece gasket set. I prefer the one piece as it is less prone to breakage and limits your need for gasket silicone patchwork.

Measure between the timing cover and the grill to see if the old cam can be removed with the grill still in place. If this is the case you will prevent the need of loosening the motor mounts. If not, you will need to loosen the motor mounts to tilt the engine off the mounts to remove the old cam and install the new one.

A Posi-lok 3 jaw puller is used to remove the old crank gear. Use a brass drift to seat the new gear on the crank. It can be installed in one of three positions (4 degrees advanced, 4 degrees retarded, 0 degrees). Degreeing the cam is not necessary, although you can if you wish.

Carefully line up the timing marks on the crank and cam gear. Put a thread lock compound on the three cam bolts. It is also preferred to use a machinist scale to ensure the cam gears are properly aligned.

With the timing set and new gasket in place, install the cover and replace all the pan bolts. You may want to consider using a silicone sealer as well to prevent oil leaks.

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