Cam installation questions (searched)

88SC_GT said:

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second is, comp cams says you must install new hydraulic lifters. i still have the rollers i took out of my original 302 with unknown miles. they have NO wear pattern and are like brand new. is this really necessary? they have no damage, no wear pattern or anything like that. my pushrods are new hardened stock length comp cams.

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you shouldn't use your old rollers from your 302, Its not the best idea IMO you should do it right the first time. The rollers aren't that much money from comp. When me and my dad did his 351w we got new ones, and whenever your rebuilding an engine you should know you are going to have to pay some more $$ so you wont have to tear it down to fix the stock parts you put in with a new cam that could damage the cam.

IMO you should pony up for new lifters. They may be fine but it's such a small amount of money compared to the rest of the engine that it's good insurance.

I have the Comp 270HR cam in my 302. I remember having difficulty with it as well. I think the longer stud sticks out too far through the timing gear to allow the bolt and washer that holds on the timing set to seat (I think that was the reason). Anyway I tried pulling it out with a vice grip - no luck. I ended up cutting the very tip off with a dremmel. Luckily the vice grip did not booger it up too bad. Most of the marked up part extended through the timing gear. I have had no problems. I honeslty don't know if the short one will work though. I seem to remember it being too short.... and besides, if it slides around, what is to keep it from sliding out to the rear when the cam is in the car?

You could always try heating up the cam a little to get the stud to move if you reall have to... and then put the stud in the freezer for awhile before installing it again.

One more thing, it's tempting to hurry to get the job done but if you don't want to have to do the job over in the near future, take the time to do it right the first time... Go to your local speed shop and pick up a set of lifters. They are very common - hell, I bet the local Ford dealer would have a set.

Get the lifters - you know the saying - penny wise - pound foolish.

Follow Oz advice - use some thermal persuasion to get the new cam pin in. Usually what happens is air gets trapped BEHIND the pin keeping it from sliding in easily. I've found with lube, twisting/rocking and gentle pressure the pin usually slids right in (don't take that last phrase out of context).

Be sure to degree the cam and check p to v.

FORD/CRANE OEM lifters $118 from Summit

Use the long pin, they are usually a hair to long, I grind them done or mill them.If you don't have a installation handle, you will need a long threaded bolt it makes it much easier. Use a lot of lube and install it slowly to avoid chipping the cam or new bearings.

Never tried the timing gear method...if you try it let me know how it works. I made a Billet handle that threads in, works awesome give you a lot of leverage and support.

I have always used the timing gear as a 'handle' - found it gives me more leverage and control than a long bolt as you can get both hands on it. Gloves are recommended.....