I'm doing a bit of research into a cam install for my LT1 and I was wondering if I could glean a bit of knowledge from anyone who has done this before... When you put the new cam in, do you just line it up like the old one was or do you have to use some sort of cardboard wheel that shows the degrees of the cam? :confused: TIA! :)

 

Degreeing a cam is not necessary for a "street" engine. Back when cams were "regrinds" done by everyone, it was necessary just to make sure it was ground correctly. These days quality control by the majors takes care of that for you. Racing applications and special grinds, you still need to check/set it. You will find that most street grinds have advance or retard "ground in" to give the best "average" performance when installed straight up. If you do use a degree wheel, you'll find that its metal and you 'll also need a dial indicator, stand, piston stop and some knowledge to use. If you've never done this, get a good engine repair manual and with it and the instructions that come with the cam, (and some special tools [pullers etc]) you can accomplish this. There are lots of things to consider before opening the hood or even buying anything. You will need lifters, (unless yours is a factory roller) gaskets, tune up parts and tuning knowledge. Depending on the "new" lift you might need new springs or head modifications. You need a long conversation with a cam griinder or choice to select the right piece for your car. They will want to know lots of details about it and how you intend to drive.

 

"Degreeing a cam is not necessary for a "street" engine. Back when cams were "regrinds" done by everyone, it was necessary just to make sure it was ground correctly" --- I highly disagree. Just because the factory puts numbers on a cam card, doesn't mean that what you got in hardware matches the piece of paper they give you. My cam from a reputable manufacturer was off by 3 degrees on the intake valve opening event. Bad news!!!

 

I degree everything. I have yet to find a cam off but with the new timming chain set with advance retart I am afraid of installing it wrong and bending something. Since I have the equipment and knowledge I would rather take the time and make sure it is right.

 

Thanks for the info guys - guess it's time to start doing some serious reading on the subject! :)

 

How many of you have degreed in a cam with a opti spark???

And how was the spark timing affected????

 

BOY CAN I KILL A THREAD OR WHAT????????????

No responces :(

 

They are degreeing in my cam when they put it in the motor. Not sure how that effects the big picture versus not degreeing it in. I just know it will run like it is supposed to though.