Page 1 of 1
What is the trick to install cam bearing bolts? Solved
Posted: Tue May 14, 2024 8:15 pm
by Mark Nunn
After hours of trying, I can't get the center bearing bolt installed. Hours spread over days! My engine is in the car so I'm using mirrors and faith to align the bearing hole. Both are failing me. I mic'd the shell hole and my new bolt. There is a clearance of .003". I took an old bolt and ground a rounded tip. I'm using that as a tool to line things up. That worked on the front bearing after 1.5 hours.
It's not working on the center bearing. What am I missing? Thoughts? Prayers?
Re: What is the trick to install cam bearing bolts?
Posted: Tue May 14, 2024 8:45 pm
by John kuehn
Use 2 taper punches at the same time on the holes. Slowly get them centered. Leave one in the hole and remove the other and then try to get the cam bolt in the one you removed the taper punch in. I’m just guessing but sometimes it may work.
You might need to modify the punch ends a little to get it to work better.
Re: What is the trick to install cam bearing bolts?
Posted: Tue May 14, 2024 8:46 pm
by RajoRacer
A bit tricky but did you align the bearing with the lock bolts in alignment with the block holes ? Can be a challenge in the car !
Re: What is the trick to install cam bearing bolts?
Posted: Tue May 14, 2024 9:47 pm
by Mark Nunn
I got the job done. It was a beautiful evening and the turkeys were in the yard. So I took a break and enjoyed a cold beer. Then I manhandled that SOB in place.
My tapered alignment bolt would not go in with just a hand grip on a deep socket. I used a ratchet to drive it in and push the shell to where it needed to go. Then I swapped that for my new bolt. Thanks for the replies.