so what do I have to do to install this cam

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trudysduster

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so what do I have to do to install this Comp 486/279 cam in my 1979 360 engine. It seems like I have to do a lot according to the spec sheet.

Recommended Components



Component

Part Number

Complete K-Kit K20-600-4
Cam & Lifter Kit CL-Kit CL20-600-4 [7]
Lifter Kit 822-16 / 867-16 [37]
Timing Set 2103 / 3103
Rocker Arms 1322-16 [23]
Push Rods 7958-16
Valve Springs 995-16 [2] / 26995 [2]
Steel Retainers 740-16 / 795-16
Valve Locks 626-16 [24]
Valve Seals 505-16 [2]
Camshaft Break-In Lube 159

Installation Notes (These notes apply to the above recommended components with the trailing installation note numbers)



Note

Description

2 [2] Requires machining on cylinder heads.
7 [7] Stock springs cannot be used.
23 [23] Includes special shafts & spacers.
24 [24] Special 10º 4 Groove Lock. Single Groove use part #612-16.
37 [37] Adjustable valve train required.

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The springs isn't going to be a problem as they will be new to match the cam. I plan on having the 340 x heads done and installed on the engine. It looks like according to this spec sheet that I have to have adjustable rockers. Will I be able to put this cam in my stock 360 engine along with the set of 340 x heads and go. someone tell me what I am about to get into here as I have no clue. Thanks,Bill
 
Bill, that's a quick ramp cam that requires "double" 995 springs according to Comp. I get that. The stock iron heads do need the pads/guides machined for those springs.

As far as the rockers, a well measured preload on the pushrod mockup would allow a stock rocker with that lift, but at the same time, those springs will put a lot of stress on the stockers.....possibly punching a rod thru over time? A nice set of 273 rockers will give you the adjustability and should be plenty stout with that cam.

As for most of the other "recommended" parts, it's mostly a sales job. :D
 
double springs with matching seat prep and some adjustables w/pushrods. I dont know where they get the timing set unless it has multiple keyways..half that stuff is for any performance grind that has a smaller base circle than a stocker. Mopars cant get a taller lobe, so they lower the floor.
 
so basically Rick I can get most of this done at the machine shop when I have the heads done. I think the kit comes with the springs. the K20-600-4. I just need to get a set of 273 adjustable rockers or maybe the stock rockers will work. what about pushrods. I planned on replacing them anyway so I need a set of the 7958 rods. the kit also comes with a new timing chain. I really have not dealt with adjustable rockers. unless you can call a chevy an adjustable rocker. I have a 509/292 in my 440 and I don't have adjustable rockers on it. I thought that all I would have to do here was change the springs to match the cam and bolt it on and go.
 
If you use the 822-16 lifters you may be able to use the stock rockers and the stock pushrods might be the correct length. If you use the 867-16 lifters you must use an adjustable valve train as the correct preload on that lifter is .000"-.008" or zero to 1/8 turn on the adjusting screw.
 
It sounds like you'd prefer a basic, non-adjustable, setup. Like IQ said, use the standard style lifter along with the stock rockers, then just verify the correct pushrod length on assembly.

The "273" rockers would be considered a upgrade in my opinion, as would the Comp recommended Pro Magnums, although pricey :). If by chance you do decide to change rockers, you again would have to verify the pushrod length and also choose the appropriate style tip for the rocker used.

One thing I don't remember is how well the stock retainers work with the 995 spring? Maybe IQ could way in on that subject also.
 

so basically Rick I can get most of this done at the machine shop when I have the heads done. I think the kit comes with the springs. the K20-600-4. I just need to get a set of 273 adjustable rockers or maybe the stock rockers will work. what about pushrods. I planned on replacing them anyway so I need a set of the 7958 rods. the kit also comes with a new timing chain. I really have not dealt with adjustable rockers. unless you can call a chevy an adjustable rocker. I have a 509/292 in my 440 and I don't have adjustable rockers on it. I thought that all I would have to do here was change the springs to match the cam and bolt it on and go.

Take the heads in, the springs, retainers, stem seals and locks. Let them set it up, stem height, spring pressures etc.

Also, if you have not ordered the kit, I would call Comp and have them swap out the chain and gears that come in their kits with a true double roller setup. They will do that and adjust the price accordingly.

If you did buy the kit already, I would seriously consider buying a double roller chain and gears.

There is one for sale here:

http://www.forabodiesonly.com/mopar/showthread.php?t=292747


Also, I might have a set of 273 rockers, I will need to do some digging.
 
Bruce, I have not bought the kit yet. I was looking at the K20-600-4 I believe was the number that has everything included. That way they could install the correct springs when they do the heads. I would prefer the stock rockers if I can get away with it. If not, Bruce if you have a set of 273 adjustable rockers, I would be interested. I would appreciate all the info I can get on this. once my pickup gets painted in the next week or so, this job is next. Thanks, Bill
 
Well, like I said, call Comp and ask them to exchange the chain and gears that come with the kit to a double roller chain and gears. They will do it and adjust accordingly, the double roller chain is far superior to the standard chain, especially if Tyler is going to romp on it occasionally, and you know he will. :D

I would also consider throwing a tensioner in there while you're at it.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/CLO-9-5387/
 
you really don't think my son would romp on it do you Bruce. nahhhhhhh. on occasion coming back from some car shows I have heard a little squeal coming from behind me me. of course that is all he has been able to do with it. I have on occasion at a stop sign or traffic light had to show him what a real car could do and make him eat some rubber. but that will probably change now. let me know about the adjustable rockers. I may have to go that route. I added the tensioner to my cart at Summit. Thanks, Bill
 
So if you install this cam with no changes to a set of J or X heads, would it still work? Perform? Be dangerous?
 
well, I don't know about the work, perform or be dangerous, that's is what I am trying to find out. I didn't say anything about no changes in the head. The heads are 340 x heads and are going to the machine shop and be done. the springs will have to match the cam and will be in the cam kit along with retainers and other hardware and new lifters. I would have liked to use the stock rockers. I am going to call Comp cams tomorrow and see what they say. If I have to buy adjustable rockers and a bunch of other stuff, he will probably have to settle for the XE268H cam instead as a second choice.
 
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