The Ultimate Guide to Installing Small Block Chevy Cam Bearings

Introduction

Installing cam bearings is a critical step in rebuilding a small block Chevrolet (SBC) engine. These bearings provide support and alignment for the camshaft, which is responsible for opening and closing the valves in the cylinder heads. Improperly installed cam bearings can lead to premature camshaft wear, oil leaks, and even engine failure.

Transition

Therefore, it is important to follow the correct procedures and use the proper tools to ensure a successful installation.

Types of Cam Bearings

There are two main types of cam bearings used in SBC engines:

• Flanged bearings: These bearings have a flange that extends outward from the bearing surface, which helps to keep them in place.

• Unflanged bearings: These bearings do not have a flange, and they are typically held in place by the camshaft thrust plate.

  

Choosing the Right Cam Bearings

When choosing cam bearings for your SBC engine, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Bearing material: Cam bearings are typically made from steel, bronze, or aluminum. Steel bearings are the most durable and have the lowest friction, but they can also be the most expensive. Bronze bearings are less durable than steel bearings, but they have a higher load capacity. Aluminum bearings are the lightest and least expensive, but they also have the lowest durability and load capacity.

• Bearing clearance: The clearance between the camshaft and the cam bearings is critical. Too much clearance can lead to premature camshaft wear, while too little clearance can cause the camshaft to bind. The ideal clearance is typically between 0.001 and 0.002 inches.

  

Installing Cam Bearings

The process of installing cam bearings is relatively straightforward, but it is important to follow the correct procedures to ensure a successful installation.

1. Clean the bearing bores: The first step is to clean the bearing bores in the engine block. Remove any old gasket material or debris from the bores using a solvent and a brush.

2. Lubricate the bearings: Apply a thin layer of engine oil to the bearing surfaces. This will help to reduce friction during installation and prevent the bearings from seizing.

3. Install the bearings: Carefully insert the cam bearings into the bearing bores. Use a bearing driver or a socket and a hammer to drive the bearings into place. Be sure to tap the bearings evenly around the circumference to prevent them from cocking.

4. Check the clearance: Once the bearings are installed, check the clearance between the camshaft and the bearings. Use a dial indicator or a feeler gauge to measure the clearance. Adjust the clearance as necessary by adding or removing shims from behind the camshaft thrust plate.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a bearing driver: A bearing driver is a specialized tool that is designed to install cam bearings. Using a bearing driver will help to ensure that the bearings are installed evenly and without damage.

• Apply a thin layer of grease to the bearing driver: This will help to reduce friction and prevent the bearings from sticking to the driver.

• Check the clearance at several points around the camshaft: This will help to ensure that the clearance is consistent throughout the entire camshaft.

Benefits of Installing Cam Bearings

Installing cam bearings provides a number of benefits, including:

• Reduced camshaft wear: Properly installed cam bearings help to reduce wear on the camshaft, which can extend the life of the engine.

• Improved oil flow: Cam bearings help to maintain a consistent oil flow to the camshaft, which is essential for preventing premature wear.

• Reduced noise and vibration: Properly installed cam bearings help to reduce noise and vibration in the engine.

Comparison of Flanged and Unflanged Cam Bearings

The following table compares the advantages and disadvantages of flanged and unflanged cam bearings:

FAQs

1. What is the proper clearance between the camshaft and the cam bearings?

The ideal clearance between the camshaft and the cam bearings is typically between 0.001 and 0.002 inches.

2. What are the symptoms of worn cam bearings?

The symptoms of worn cam bearings include:
- Excessive camshaft play
- Oil leaks from the camshaft area
- Noisy or vibrating engine

3. Can I replace cam bearings without removing the engine from the car?

It is possible to replace cam bearings without removing the engine from the car, but it is a more difficult and time-consuming process.

4. What is the cost of installing cam bearings?

The cost of installing cam bearings will vary depending on the make and model of the engine. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for the parts and labor.

5. How often should I inspect my cam bearings?

You should inspect your cam bearings every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.

6. What are some tips for installing cam bearings?

• Use a bearing driver to install the bearings.
• Apply a thin layer of grease to the bearing driver.
• Check the clearance at several points around the camshaft.

Call to Action

If you are planning to rebuild your SBC engine, be sure to include cam bearing installation in your plans. Properly installed cam bearings will help to extend the life of your engine and improve its performance.

Humor Stories

Story 1

A man was installing cam bearings in his SBC engine when he dropped one of the bearings into the oil pan. He tried to retrieve the bearing with a magnet, but it was no use. The bearing was stuck to the bottom of the oil pan.

The man was about to give up when he had an idea. He poured a cup of oil into the oil pan and waited. After a few minutes, the bearing floated to the top of the oil. The man was able to retrieve the bearing and complete the installation.

What we learn:

• Never give up! There is always a way to solve a problem.

Story 2

A man was installing cam bearings in his SBC engine when he realized that he had installed one of the bearings upside down. He tried to remove the bearing, but it was stuck.

The man was about to give up when he had an idea. He heated the bearing with a torch until it was hot enough to expand. Once the bearing was expanded, he was able to remove it with a pair of pliers.

What we learn:

• Sometimes, you have to think outside the box to solve a problem.

Story 3

A man was installing cam bearings in his SBC engine when he accidentally dropped the camshaft into the oil pan. The camshaft was heavy, and the man was not able to retrieve it himself.

The man called his wife for help. His wife came to the rescue and used a pair of tongs to retrieve the camshaft from the oil pan.

What we learn:

• It's always good to have a helper when you are working on a project.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Cam Bearing Specifications

Table 2: Cam Bearing Clearance Recommendations

Table 3: Cam Bearing Installation Tools