Editing Camshaft install tips and tricks
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{{!}}Use this list as a guideline so that you remember to check all these things when installing a new flat tappet camshaft. This list is not gospel, and if the manufacturer of the camshaft you're using recommends procedures that differ from what is shown here, use the manufacturer's recommendations instead. | {{!}}Use this list as a guideline so that you remember to check all these things when installing a new flat tappet camshaft. This list is not gospel, and if the manufacturer of the camshaft you're using recommends procedures that differ from what is shown here, use the manufacturer's recommendations instead. | ||
− | ==Mistakes that may | + | ==Mistakes that may "frag" a flat-tappet camshaft and lifters== |
===Cleaning=== | ===Cleaning=== | ||
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===Engine RPM for break in=== | ===Engine RPM for break in=== | ||
− | '''13. Failure to run the motor at 2500 rpm or higher (alternating 500/1000 rpm up and down) to allow the crank and rod big ends to throw oil onto the cam, for a minimum of | + | '''13. Failure to run the motor at 2500 rpm or higher (alternating 500/1000 rpm up and down) to allow the crank and rod big ends to throw oil onto the cam, for a minimum of 30 minutes.''' |
{{Warning}} No idling! The motor should not be run at less than 2500 rpm for a minimum of 20 minutes. If a problem develops, shut the motor down and fix it, then resume break-in. The main sources of camshaft lubrication is oil thrown off of the rods and crankshaft, drain back from the oil rings and oil blowing around inside the crankcase (this is known as "windage"). At idle, the crank isn't spinning fast enough to provide sufficient oil splash to the camshaft/lifters for proper break in protection. | {{Warning}} No idling! The motor should not be run at less than 2500 rpm for a minimum of 20 minutes. If a problem develops, shut the motor down and fix it, then resume break-in. The main sources of camshaft lubrication is oil thrown off of the rods and crankshaft, drain back from the oil rings and oil blowing around inside the crankcase (this is known as "windage"). At idle, the crank isn't spinning fast enough to provide sufficient oil splash to the camshaft/lifters for proper break in protection. | ||
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Used lifters should only be used on the very same cam, in the very same block, and in the very same positions they were removed from. Chances that the lifter bores will be machined on the very same angles on a different block as the block the lifters came out of are about equal to you hitting the lottery. If you purchase a used flat tappet cam from a swap meet or yard sale, plan on using it for a doorstop. New lifters should not be used on an old cam, either. Given the reasonable cost of a new cam and lifter set (~$100 ca. 2012), vs. the cost of cleaning and repairing the damage done by a failed cam and lifters, the choice to use new parts is obvious. | Used lifters should only be used on the very same cam, in the very same block, and in the very same positions they were removed from. Chances that the lifter bores will be machined on the very same angles on a different block as the block the lifters came out of are about equal to you hitting the lottery. If you purchase a used flat tappet cam from a swap meet or yard sale, plan on using it for a doorstop. New lifters should not be used on an old cam, either. Given the reasonable cost of a new cam and lifter set (~$100 ca. 2012), vs. the cost of cleaning and repairing the damage done by a failed cam and lifters, the choice to use new parts is obvious. | ||
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'''19. Failure to observe the lifters and pushrods turning with the motor running.''' | '''19. Failure to observe the lifters and pushrods turning with the motor running.''' | ||
− | If the lifter is not turning, the cam lobe is hitting on the same spot on the lifter every revolution and it won't be long until the lifter yields and then takes the lobe out with it. All lifters and all pushrods must be turning for successful engine operation. | + | If the lifter is not turning, the cam lobe is hitting on the same spot on the lifter every revolution and it won't be long until the lifter yields and then takes the lobe out with it. All lifters and all pushrods must be turning for successful engine operation. |
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==Lubrication== | ==Lubrication== | ||
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While the move has been made by the OEMs to stop using flat tappet cams and lifters in production vehicle engines (replaced by hydraulic roller cams and lifters), they are not immune to failure. | While the move has been made by the OEMs to stop using flat tappet cams and lifters in production vehicle engines (replaced by hydraulic roller cams and lifters), they are not immune to failure. | ||
− | The same type of oil additives should be used, because it is not just the cam and lifters that require a high pressure lubricant additive; use the heavy moly cam break in lube on a roller cam or lifter- it will | + | The same type of oil additives should be used, because it is not just the cam and lifters that require a high pressure lubricant additive; the however do not use the heavy moly cam break in lube on a roller cam or lifter- it will cause much more problems than it will cure. Instead, follow the manufacturer's instructions. If those are not available for some unknown reason (all should be found online), use motor oil or a roller lifter-specific lube for the roller lifters and cam. |
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