Cam cover installation tools.

02V70 · Post by **02V70** » 09 Jan 2022, 12:57

When reinstalling the cam cover, will I need the special tools? This amazon link shows them https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XN ... UTF8&psc=1. I did not need it to take the cam cover off, and If they are only used to keep timing, I won't need them since I have everything marked, Are there alternatives to using this tool?

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 09 Jan 2022, 16:54

02V70 wrote: 09 Jan 2022, 12:57 When reinstalling the cam cover, will I need the special tools?

The CAM cover tools are to maintain even pressure and not warp the Cam cover. That goes for taking the Cam cover off and installing the Cam cover. The Cam cover and head are match at the factory. If you warp the Cam cover you would need to get a new matched pair or have a Machinist work one to match. If you can find a Machinist that can do it.

Post by **erikv11** » 09 Jan 2022, 21:44

Yes, people install the cam cover without the tools, but there is some risk. You can lower everything straight down using a methodical cycling through the 40 (?) bolts while keeping the cams in place like with wire. It's easier with the special tools.

Post by **abscate** » 10 Jan 2022, 03:15

I got good practice at this in 2021

You can pull the cover down using 8 of the screws around cylinders 2 and 4 spark plug hole. Use the gap as a guide to keep it coming down evenly

Make sure you grease the cam bearings a bit, especially the thrust bearing surfaces near the front or it will lock up.

When the cans are on the timing marks the valves under compression are number two intake and number 5 exhaust , shown here.

02V70 · Post by **02V70** » 08 Feb 2022, 18:01

What do I grease the cams with?

Post by **BlackBart** » 08 Feb 2022, 18:08

Engine assembly grease, or even some clean engine oil.

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 08 Feb 2022, 18:37

It is called Assembly lube.

Assembly lube is designed to stick to the parts so it will be in place during the initial startup.

02V70 · Post by **02V70** » 21 Feb 2022, 21:09

abscate wrote: 10 Jan 2022, 03:15 I got good practice at this in 2021

You can pull the cover down using 8 of the screws around cylinders 2 and 4 spark plug hole. Use the gap as a guide to keep it coming down evenly

Make sure you grease the cam bearings a bit, especially the thrust bearing surfaces near the front or it will lock up.

When the cans are on the timing marks the valves under compression are number two intake and number 5 exhaust , shown here.

What are the bolts coming off the back of the cams for? Also, is it fine If I turn the cams a little to get it back into correct timing? There is no need to lock the cams into place to prevent from turning right?

Post by **vtl** » 21 Feb 2022, 22:24

02V70 wrote: 21 Feb 2022, 21:09 Also, is it fine If I turn the cams a little to get it back into correct timing?

Yes

02V70 wrote: 21 Feb 2022, 21:09 There is no need to lock the cams into place to prevent from turning right?

No. But you need to place them in such a way that the lobes will only push onto tappets (followers) for cylinders that have space for the valves to open. Because it is easy to mess up, you'd better lock them and make sure the crankshaft's mark is still where it should be. Or remove the starter, the plug behind the starter and lock the crankshaft, just to be 100% positive you are doing it right.

Don't forget to oil tappets and camshafts slightly, it will ease installation.

Post by **abscate** » 22 Feb 2022, 05:06

02V70 wrote: 21 Feb 2022, 21:09
What are the bolts coming off the back of the cams for? Also, is it fine If I turn the cams a little to get it back into correct timing? There is no need to lock the cams into place to prevent from turning right?

I use those bolts to wire the cams into the top cam cover on installation. That way, I know it is seated into the bearing surfaces correctly. I did get a hood deal on the cam/ crank/ cover tool set last fall so I now I pull them down the “official tool way”