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Cam Change

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Old Apr 13, 2008 | 05:24 PM
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Default Cam Change

What problems will I encounter when I go to change the cam in my 73? Can it be done with the engine still in the car? Any tips would help out
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Old Apr 13, 2008 | 05:28 PM
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Originally Posted by wogs73
What problems will I encounter when I go to change the cam in my 73? Can it be done with the engine still in the car? Any tips would help out

Yes the engine can stay in the car, but the radiator can't, and maybe not the condenser if you have A/C.

Once those are out of the way, you'll have to drop the suspension to get the pan off so you can get the timing cover off as well. Obviously to get to that the fan, and water pump will have to come out too.

You'll also have to take the distributor out, and the intake off so you can get the lifter out, and to do that you'll have to pull the valve cover, loosen the rockers, and take the push rods out. Make sure you keep track of which lifter went in which bore...as it DOES matter.

Once all of that is done, you can change the cam.
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Old Apr 13, 2008 | 05:39 PM
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I would change out the lifters as well.
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Old Apr 13, 2008 | 06:06 PM
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Thanks for the replies!! I know about the other stuff just wasn't sure what had to come out in front and if it was possible. Got a new cam, lifters and am putting some World Product Torqers on it with 67cc chambers.
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Old Apr 14, 2008 | 10:16 PM
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If you take the hood off you can tilt the condenser forward and not have to remove it. Don't forget to mark the hinges.
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Old Apr 14, 2008 | 10:21 PM
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Did my 77 with engine in. all that has to be removed it the radiator and ac condensor if you have.
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Old Apr 14, 2008 | 10:24 PM
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All of the above advice holds true with one other note... You don't have to drop the oil pan if you loosen the front bolts near the front and very carefully remove the timing cover. Re-installation of the cover will require a bead of silicone on it where it contacts the oil pan, but it is very do-able. Dropping the pan is a big PITA, because of all the other related items that must be dealt with (starter, steering rod, etc.)
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Old Apr 14, 2008 | 10:32 PM
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I would pull the engine. 13 extra bolts and you don't have to pull the radiator or the condenser. Much easier to put the cam in also.
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Old Apr 15, 2008 | 07:04 AM
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Why fight leaning over the fenders. Take your time and do it right. Things go better without having to reach across, climbing under/over and droping things.
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Old Apr 15, 2008 | 07:28 AM
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Yes, can be done w/ engine in car.
New lifters should be used w/ a new cam as you probably know.

Originally Posted by wogs73
Got a new cam, lifters and am putting some World Product Torqers on it with 67cc chambers.
A new timing chain set would normally be installed also.
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Old Apr 15, 2008 | 09:29 AM
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Dont Forget That Sneaky Fuel Pump Rod.
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Old Apr 15, 2008 | 12:06 PM
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i changed the cam, with the engine in the car. Rad and condenser had to come out, so does everything else, as said above, dont forget the fuel pump rod.

Get some new lifters, two of mine were pitted really bad. and dot forget that assembly lube!!
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Old May 7, 2008 | 09:40 PM
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Hey guys! Thanks for all the responses! It went very well and the engine runs great! Now I need to get my neighbor to help me put the hood back on and it will be complete! The old heads had deteriorating valve stem seals and oil was baking on the underside of the intake valves. I had two fouled plugs from that!
Thanks again
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