Camshaft binding??
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 2,019
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From: Na
Camshaft binding??
I just though of this as I did not really think about it initial as I was installed my roller cam in my ZZ4. The cam was rotating fairly easy until I seated it on the last cam bearing. From there, it seemed like it took a little bit more resistance to spin the cam. Is it possible that there is a misalignment in the cam bearings due to wrong installation . This is a brand new zz4 shortblock. The cam is a comp cams steel billet hydraulic roller. Thanks for any advise. 
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2000
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From: The Top of Utah
Occasionally. The first thing to do is pull the cam and set it up on a pair of vee blocks and check it to insure it's straight. Use a dial indicator to look for run out at all the bearing journals. The cam bearings can be line bored, if necessary.
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Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2000
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From: Na
I doubt that the camshaft is the problem because it spun easily up until the last bearing. Possibley a small nick on the furthest bearing causing a bind? If that is the case will running the engine wear in that bearing without damage?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2002
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From: High Plains Drifter Fayetteville, AR
Originally Posted by NUckINg FuTS
I doubt that the camshaft is the problem because it spun easily up until the last bearing. Possibley a small nick on the furthest bearing causing a bind? If that is the case will running the engine wear in that bearing without damage?
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2000
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From: Na
Originally Posted by JCAIRE2
No. What usually happens is the edge of the bearing will mushroom from the install tool and give a tight bearing. If the bearing is nicked, you'll end up with a spun bearing as soon as the engine is started. WHen the bearings were installed, a test cam should have been run into the engine and turned by hand to check the bearing install.
What if a burred edge is the culprit? Would it be safe to run the engine that way?
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2002
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From: High Plains Drifter Fayetteville, AR
Originally Posted by NUckINg FuTS
What if a burred edge is the culprit? Would it be safe to run the engine that way?
Instal the cam and turn it a couple times. Remove cam and with an inspection light, look at the cam bearing for any shiny spots, those are the high areas. Polish a little with the sandpaper and wipe clean. Reinstall cam and repeat until it turns freely. There should be some resistance to turning, but no rough spots.