Cam Bearing install

Dan W MN · Jun 20, 2010

I am rebuilding a farmall M and need to replace the cam bearings. I have already built a slide-hammer style installer with a bushing to fit each bearing. I have just recently been told that after installation they should be reamed to the proper size. I have installed them in a chevy 350 without reaming and never had a problem - did i just get lucky? What are your thoughts (can i just install them and call it good?) Thanks!

DickL · Jun 20, 2010

I think that if someone was not pulling your leg they got there facts mixed up.

Dan W MN · Jun 20, 2010

Thanks, thats what i thought

Owen Aaland · Jun 20, 2010

Install them and them and try the cam for fit. Most of the ones I've done have had tight spots that needed to be scraped a little to get proper clearance. Tight spots on the bearings will show up a shiny areas after the cam is installed and rotated.

Wayne in MN · Jun 20, 2010

With last H engine I installed cam bearings into I had to scrape the bearings to get the camshaft to rotate easily. I even used the OTC installing tool borrowed from the machine shop!

El Toro · Jun 22, 2010

If the cam turns free leave them alone. If its hard to turn they probably need some clearance.

Your local auto machine shop would have inside mikes and measure the cam bearings and mike the cam journals to see if there's clearance. You need close tolerance on these as they determine your good oil pressure. Hal

Rootsy · Jun 22, 2010

Bore gauge and micrometer will tell you all you need to know...

Cam Bearing install

Dan W MN

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DickL

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Dan W MN

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Owen Aaland

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Wayne in MN

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El Toro

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Rootsy

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