blue thunder

Today I was prepping the short block (454) to install new camshaft and upon inspection of the cam bearings, noticed one looked funny. It is the 2nd from the back of the engine. Stuck a stick down and poked at the funny looking spot, and the outer metallic laminate flaked off. I assume this is babbit. Turns out there are two spots like this on that bearing. I'll try to take a picture later when the wife gets home with the camera.

Anyway, I've never had to replace cam bearings before. Is this something I can do myself if I get the proper bearing intalling/removing tool? Doesn't look like it would be too tough, but what do you guys say? I'll do a search on the subject in the meantime.

Thanks,

BT

H2Xmark

I always let the machine shop do it, you need the special driver tool, and some of the cam bearings you have to line up the oil holes{not on all engines though} on, they do it for so cheap it's not worth it for me to buy the tool

DonMan

My machine shop charges me $20 to install cam bearings. The proper tool is around $150. You do the math.
If the little holes are not aligned correctly, you will have VERY LITTLE if any, oil pressure.
Just let the pros do it.

blown1500

Hello guys,
Cam bearings in a mkIV block must have the hole in the bearing aligned with the hole in the block. If you don't, that bearing will get no lubrication. If you have any problems with the installer, you can destroy the bearing or at least cause the bearing to fit too tightly on the cam. Other problems can occur. If you can, let the machine shop do the install. You probably could do the job, but the tool is only good for one purpose, so to use it once is a bad investment and the education process can be costly.
If you decide to try it, please, get some experienced advise!!
Have a great day!!!

Vinny P

I agree with the above...Let the machine shop do it. It's not worth buying the tool for this job.

blue thunder

Alright... you guys convinced me. I'll load it up and take it to the man.

Thanks for the input,

BT

Ted G

One other thing-there is a certain feel to the bearings as they go in. A good machinist knows the feel and will start measuring if something doesn't feel right. The wrong fit can be disasterous