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I am installing a Crane hydraulic roller cam in my FE446 motor (part 349521). I was surfing through Jeg's tools and noticed a Cam install tool, but it's labeled "not for hydraulic rollers". I wasn't really plannning on using a tool anyway, but the label scared me.
Why would this be, it makes me nervous. Why would the installation be any different than a regular hydraulic or mechanical cam?
Any ideas or words of wisdom for installing a hydraulic roller setup. I'm using the reccomended Crane roller lifters, springs, retainers and clips. I thought the Edelbrock Valve seals to be adequate, since I was not changing valves. I'll be using the Crane custom pushrods when I get some measurments.
I think their comment is for Chevy motors. The roller cam small block Chevy block is a good bit changed from the flat tappet blocks as far as the cam retention goes. It probably just won't screw into the roller cam. (it is like a long handle right?, I never really felt the need for those)
As far as the roller cam installation, I'd only say follow Crane's instructions to the letter as far as lubrication and break in.
Tired of you, nope! I greatly appreciate all of the advice.
I have not put a gauge to to the thrust bearing yet.If the Hot Rod article is anywhere close (they show 8.71"), I need a 9" gauge. Locally I found a 6", harbor freight advertises an 8", but I want one long enough to measure these adjustable pushrods when I get to that point.
I'm sure I'll be back with more questions. I'm off work thru Saturday. I'd like to get it done, or at least get the measurements and order the pushrods by then.
Gtex, you may want to re-think using the recommended valvesprings from Crane, lots of guys have had trouble with them. How high are you planning to spin this engine ? I would still buy springs from Crane, but get a double or triple set intended for a solid roller. The ones Crane recommends for the hyd. roller seem to get really weak at 5200-5800 rpms.....DF
I made my own cam install tool with a bolt welded to a piece of tubing. Just find one that will thread into the cam. It may look bad but it saved me a $20 bill !!!
I may make a tool for cam installs, but my real problem now is making a tool for pushrod measurments. The crane adjustables have ***** at both ends, I need a ball/cup rod....Will it ever end?
Hey Gtex, I used the competition cams adjustables and needed the ball/cup pushrods. I got mine from maddog racing in florida. They are a hardened rod that measures 9.157. I only paid like $40 for the set. Their phone number is 1 80 0 79 2 99 84. If this doesnt show up, you can email me and I will give you the info. These are the shortest one you can get without special order. Mine just fit because my machinist didnt top the valve stems to make up for the valve sitting deeper in the seat. If you need shorter ones Gessford machine up here in Nebraska has some that are 9.057. If I bent any rods I will have to get these but they are $145 a set. Hope this helps.
I think mine will need to be a good bit shorter with the Hydraulic Roller lifters. I assume you are not running a Hydraulic roller cam and lifter setup. The rods that Hot Rod magazine ended up with on their 390 project were 8.71". they used a very similar Crane cam and the crane Hyd. Roller lifters.
No, you are right sorry for all that unusable info. However, Dennis at D S C motorsports might be able to help you. Also, the guys I mentioned a Gessford build 428CJ's for the clubs around the midwest and might have what you need or some advice. I will try to get their contact information. I will email it to you.
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