OH cam clearance

[enkeivette]

Popped the new cams into my buddy's used/ ported 420A (Eclipse) cylinder head, and they fit TIGHT. Its good that they didnt rock, which means the cylinder head prob isnt warped. But should they really fit tight like that? Couldnt spin them with my hands.

[94cobra69ss396]

There should be a spec for the clearance. You did use assembly lube on it, correct?

[enkeivette]

No, just popped them in place to see if they rocked around. Head still needs to be worked on

[Vettezuki]

"Sounds" a bit tight, but lube makes all the difference in the world . . if you know what I mean.

Once my brother and I were trying to jam a giant leather couch through a doorway vertically (top of stairs) and it was just getting stuck. I asked if he had some Pam. We sprayed his couch with Pam along the edges and it slid right through. I've had similar experiences with metal on metal. It's fascinating how much difference that tiny bit of film makes.

[94cobra69ss396]

I assume the caps are probably aluminum which will stick and score the steel camshaft if you try to turn it if there isn't oil or assembly lube there. Find out what the factory tolerance is for the cam, get some plastigauge for that range and check the clearance.

[Damian]

You should be able to spin them by hand easily. Lube them up and try again.

[Shaolin Crane]

If not, 1k grit and lightly sand.