Did you use the camshaft removal handle or the bolts through the cam head? Any advice for a person doing their first cam swap on the safe removal of the cam?

Thanks.

P.s... anyone have a used cam handle they want to sell.. that works with a hydraulic roller?

 

We used the cam bolts I do believe, but this was not a swap, but an engine rebuild.

 

I usually just use the cam bolts.

 

Thanks... does the handle really provide any advantage over the bolts? Im a bit concerned in terms of technque on taking the old cam out. Any gotcha about removing the cam? I've already heard slow and steady.. and be patient...

 

I used a crowbar!








but yeah I used the cam bolts, slow and steady if you feel resistance stop what your doing and find out why it's doing that

and when putting in the new cam be EXTREMELY liberal with the assembly lube, no such thing as too much

 

Whats the best cam installation lube?

 

I got some comp cams brand stuff, it's all pretty much the same, just a heavy grease

 

Oh right on then. I was reading the manual (haynes) and it said that the oil pan gasket might rip once I pop it loose.. Is it possible to swap out the oil pan gasket without having to take out the motor mount bolts and jack up the engine?

 

nah, it's not the gasket that rips it's this rtv-like bead that runs along the front of the pan/tc. just be VERY careful and take your time.

just remember rtv can work wonders lol

 

That "bead" is the gasket.

 

yeah but its seperate from the rest of the gasket

 

No, it's not. The oil pan gasket is one piece. (at least until you tear the front off when pulling the timing cover)

 

I used some longer bolts that fit the thread. I was extremely cautious to keep the forces neutral because I didnt want to mess up any of the bearings. then once you get it past the first or second bearing you take the bolts out and just grab the cam itself.

 

Do you have to twist the cam on its way out or just pull it straight back nice and slow ?

 

I plan on tying a rope to mine and pulling it with my truck.