COMP Cams Camshaft Installation and Degreeing Procedure - Manual (Page 11)

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COMP Cams®
3406 Democrat Rd.
Memphis, TN 38118
Phone: (901) 795-2400 Fax: (901) 366-1807
www.compcams.com
Part #145
Revised 5/4/12
increments, keep in mind that you must continue to count the number of degrees on past
90 degrees. Be sure all readings are taken from Top Dead Center.
Keep in mind that to advance the cam, you must lower the intake centerline. For example, if
our cam has a lobe separation of 110 degrees. Moving the centerline to 106 degrees advances
the cam 4 degrees. If we change the centerline to 112 degrees, this would be 2 degrees retarded.
We at COMP Cams hope that these instructions will be helpful in making your camshaft
installation and degreeing a successful experience. COMP Cams produces a DVD entitled
“The Proper Procedure to Install and Degree a Camshaft.” This covers all of the points
discussed here and illustrates many other helpful tips to achieve the maximum performance
from your engine. This DVD is part of the Cam Degree Kit available from COMP Cams® (Part
#4796) or can be purchased individually (Part #190DVD). If you wish to order this kit or DVD,
or if you have any other questions concerning your cam change, please call our CAM HELP®
line at 1-800-999-0853. Our technical specialists are here to help you 7 am to 8 pm CST
Monday through Friday and 9 am to 4 pm CST Saturday.
Common Mistakes
Note: To prevent broken or damaged valve train components, please read and follow these
instructions completely.
The number one cause of mechanical and hydraulic camshaft failure is worn or incorrect valve
springs which result in premature wear of camshaft lobes and lifters
COMP Cams® strongly recommends replacing valve springs on any engine with 60,000 miles
or more. Stock (O.E.M.) springs may be retained in some applications where a small cam is
used such as 252H or 260H.
For most engines using a 268H or larger cam you must change valve springs and, if necessary,
remove the exhaust valve rotators to achieve the correct installed height and spring pressure.
If you do not use enough seat pressure, valve float will occur, causing damage to the entire
valve train and the engine will not turn high enough rpm. If the open spring pressure is
excessive, worn lobes will be the result. Please refer to your camshaft spec card or COMP
Cams® Master Reference Catalog to determine the valve spring needed for your application.
During the camshaft break-in cycle, remove the inner valve springs to help prevent premature
lobe wear. Run the engine 2000-2500 rpm for 30 minutes.
Always use plenty of cam lube on the lobes.
Always pre-adjust lifters before startup and break-in to allow for proper lifter rotation.
Stock rocker arms in most applications will not accept the lift of a 280H or larger camshaft
without binding.