What if I install my cam without using a degree kit beforehand, and the cam is off? Will a degree kit do anything other than check to make sure the cam is up to specs? What would I need to do if it doesn't run right?

I already know that if something does go wrong, I'll be posting a vid of the initial start up on the boards to see what you guys think (hopefully that won't be neccesary)

Thanks

 

The degree wheel is used to measure or degree the cam, it is only a measuring tool. If the cam is off then its off and your screwed.

 

So basically, I should save the money because degreeing the cam doesn't do jack other than tell me I'm screwed before I even get the car started.

 

Exactly,odds are that its fine.

 

a degree wheel is used to make sure the cam timming is dead nuts on.things like timing chain stretch and align boring can affect valve timming.you may need to advance or retard your cam to get the valve to open exactly where they should.in most cases degreeing the cam isnt nessasary and just installing the cam at 0 deg is just fine.
odds are that its close enough.