Is it possible? I will be doing a heads cam swap shortly, this is my first venture into the motor, and have been reading about the degreeing vs. Dot to dot install theories. What I haven't seen is a writeup on the process of degreeing the cam with the heads off. Is that because its not possible, or because its so simple it doesn't need a writeup?

Everything I am reading is basically using the crank position and valvletrain to verify that the specs on the cam are what they are supposed to be, and to make sure the cam is right where it needs to be. My question is can't this be done using a dial indicator on the piston itself and then on the cam lobe, as opposed to a solid lifter or the valve spring retainer? Like I said, this is my first venture into the motor, do the heads need to be installed for some reason prior to degreeing?

Thanks.

 

It's much easier to do with the heads off. The hardest part is getting the dial indicator on the lifter, and keeping it solidly there, because it's WAY down there in the lifter bore. You'll need a dial indicator extension to reach it.

 

Yes, much easier with the heads off....check Comp's website, I'm pretty sure that they have a write up with pics, if not, try Google ("how to degree a camshaft" or something like that), I found a good one once that I believe was in Car Craft...

 

One word of caution, though. Don't buy any of the "Cam Degreeing Kits"...............They're for everything BUT the LS engines. Ask me how I know!!! A good magnetic base dial indicator with a 2" extension is needed. Comp Cams has a crank turning tool that you can use a degree wheel with, and it won't slide on you. Also, get the smaller degree wheel from Comp, too.

 

Whats the point in degreeing a cam when the stock timing chain is loose anyways?

If you're gonna go through that much trouble, I'd throw a better timing chain in it.

 

I plan on that, Inmotion single adjustable. I bought a Comp 11" wheel, and I figured I would turn the crank with a strap wrench and good intentions. I will check out the 'turning tool'.

Something tells me that you bought a kit and THEN figured that out?

Thanks for the info fellas.