Editing Camshaft install tips and tricks (section)
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==Adjusting the cam timing or "phasing"== Cam phasing is the relationship of the camshaft position to the crankshaft position in reference to TDC. A change of 2 degrees at the cam gear equals 4 degrees at the crank. {{Note1}}When advancing/retarding the cam, be sure to check valve to piston clearance. Each degree of change effects valve clearance approximately 0.010". Example: If you advance the camshaft 4 degrees, you will '''lose''' about 0.040" clearance between the intake valve and piston, and you will ''gain'' about 0.040" clearance between the exhaust valve and piston. It will be the opposite if the camshaft is retarded. The cam timing, or phasing, can be changed at the time of installation by using a multi-keyway timing set, or an adjustable cam gear like [http://www.cloyes.com/HighPerformance/Products/HexAJustTrueRollerSets/tabid/383/language/en-US/Default.aspx Cloyes Hex-A-Just]. On timing sets that have no built-in adjustability, the cam phasing can still be adjusted in many cases. This is done by drilling the dowel pin hole of the cam gear oversize in order to use a bushing to advance or retard the cam gear. On engines where this isn't practical, an offset crank gear Woodruff key can often be used instead. {| |[[File:Cam bushings.jpg|thumb|center|280px|Cam gear bushing selection]] |[[File:Offset crank keys.jpg|thumb|center|250px|Crank gear offset key selection]] |} In the majority of cases, installing the cam "straight up" (without any advance/retard added by the installer) is the correct way to install the cam and timing set. Many cam makers have already advanced (in most cases) the cam timing when the cam was made to suit the application. Unless the builder has access to an engine dynamometer or has advanced knowledge of the dynamics involved, advancing/retarding a cam is nothing but a shot in the dark as to whether it will result in any benefits at all. And there's the chance the engine output could be adversely affected by indiscriminately changing the phasing of the cam. The piston to valve clearance can be reduced enough to cause damage in some cases.
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