Author Topic: quick n00b engine build question!  (Read 2017 times)

Offline The4ork

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quick n00b engine build question!
« on: January 22, 2012 - 01:44:33 AM »
ive decided to swap to a more mild cam... and when i put the new cam (lunati voodoo) back into the engine, installed the lock plate and 4 bolts, and then put the timing chain on i noticed something very interesting....


as im putting the lifters in, im noticing than some of them dont 100% line up with each lobe on the cam. on some of them, the very edge comes in contact with another lobe, or some of the lifters are offset and the lobe next to it could rub on the side of the lifter.

puzzled, i rocked the cam itself foward/back in the engine and have found about 1/8" of play.  WTF!?

im starting to think that maybe there is suposed to be a shim somewhere? the cam movement is too far AFT in the engine, it needs to be at the more forward position of the movement.

im worried and have stopped all work until i know whats up. so as soon as someone gives me a green light saying its normal ill resume, or if its a red light i need to figure out what im missing or did wrong.

also i had a few worn lifters so i replaced all 16 with new and im wondering if the old cam had the same play causing lifter wear? which makes me further think im missing a shim or something along those lines.




Offline PlumCraZRT

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Re: quick n00b engine build question!
« Reply #1 on: January 22, 2012 - 03:46:45 AM »
I don't think there are any shims or spacers.

It's normal to have play/movement in the cam.  With flat tappet cams, the cam will 'walk' towards the back of the engine.  With roller lifters, the cam can move forward and backward, which is why thrust/torrington bearings are used against the cam chain cover.

I don't know what a 'normal' amout on play is.
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Offline The4ork

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Re: quick n00b engine build question!
« Reply #2 on: January 22, 2012 - 05:03:22 AM »
i didnt have the end bolt installed yet. it keeps it snug. what a n00b.

at least i know im being overly cautious. ill have a post up soon about my pushrods possibly being a touch too long. but they are probably fine as well.

Offline 73restomod

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Re: quick n00b engine build question!
« Reply #3 on: August 24, 2012 - 10:13:36 PM »
Is the motor a small block or big block?

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Offline Chryco Psycho

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Re: quick n00b engine build question!
« Reply #4 on: August 25, 2012 - 05:34:32 AM »
Has to be a small block with the 4 bolt cam plate at the front ,,,,, glad you got it figured out  :2thumbs:

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