degreeing cam

[Andrew]

I'm a little lost, when I installed my last cam, I never degreed it- but looking back if the cam is locked into position relative to the crank (by way of the timing chain) it would seem to me to advance or retard the cam timing you would have to do it in one tooth incraments on the sprocket or by the keyway on the sprocket gear? Is that what the r2 r4 etc on the sprocket stand for- retard 2 degrees, 4 degrees? Is that correct or is there some other way?

 

[Satellite65]

That's exactly what they're for. There should also be corresponding timing marks on the gear itself. Read the instructions that came with the timing set.

It can also be done with offset keystock. They sell keys that are 'stepped'. depending on which way you install it would determine whether you are advancing or retarding the cam timing. I think you only get a couple of degrees either way with this method.

Is that a Cloyes timing set? Summit usually has PDF's of the instructions on their website if you need 'em.

 

[Cranky]

And you should use a degree wheel to check exactly where you are. There are tutorials on the net that tells exactly how to do it. Keep in mind that production always has a tolerance and it can stack up plus mistakes can and have been made. That's why you degree in you cam using a degree wheel and dial indicator. You should always establish 'true' TDC before degreeing too.

 

[Andrew]

Thanks, found a great tutorial on youtube that supported your points and really clarified the whole thing. Thanks fellas.