COMP Cams Camshaft Installation and Degreeing Procedure - Manual (Page 9)

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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
A crank socket for specific applications is another optional component and engines that have non-
adjustable rocker arms will also require an adjustable pushrod. A camshaft degree kit (Part #4796) that
includes all of the items in the table is available from COMP Cams®. The crank socket and adjustable
pushrods can also be purchased through COMP Cams® separately.
Intake Centerline Method
There are several accepted ways to degree a camshaft. COMP Cams® suggests the intake centerline
method as the easiest and most accurate. This method of cam degreeing is very practical and
indifferent to design characteristics. It simply involves positioning the center, or point of maximum
lift, of the #1 intake lobe with Top Dead Center (TDC) of the #1 piston. The intake centerline method
still requires accuracy to be correct, but it is somewhat forgiving. Once you have degreed a camshaft
using this method, you will be surprised at its ease. We also recommend positioning the dial indicator
on the #1 intake retainer because lift measurements will include any deflection that may occur in the
pushrod and rocker arm. This makes the degreeing process as accurate as possible in relation to what
actually goes on inside the engine.
1. The camshaft and timing set have been installed. Make sure that the timing marks on both the
cam gear and crank gear are aligned properly per the cam installation instructions. Use chalk or
similar marker to better define the marks.
2. For example, we have our cam card and it suggests we install the cam on 106-degree intake
centerline. Install all the rocker arms and pushrods in the engine as normal. On #1 intake lobe,
install the solid lifter in place of a hydraulic lifter. If a solid lifter or roller cam is being
checked, use that respective lifter. Adjust the #1 intake lash to exactly zero. Do not pre-load the
lifter. Next, adjust the #1 exhaust lash to zero. You should be able to turn both pushrods with
your fingers easily.
3. Attach the pointer to the block. Many people will make a pointer out of some sort of rigid, yet
manageable wire. A stiff coat hanger wire works well.
4. Attach the degree wheel to the balancer and install the assembly on the crankshaft. There are
several ways to attach the degree wheel to the crankshaft. The crank may be rotated from either
the front or from the flywheel end. Obviously, if the engine is in the car, you must rotate from
the front. Remember, the greater the leverage, the smoother the crank rotation, and more
accuracy. Note: Never use the starter to turn the engine while degreeing a cam.
5. Before installing the piston stop, rotate the crankshaft to get the #1 piston in approximate TDC
position with both the intake and exhaust valves closed. This can be a rough guess, but it can
save you from making a mistake later. Adjust your pointer to zero or TDC on the degree wheel.
6. Turn the crankshaft opposite to the engine rotation approximately 15-20 degrees. This will
lower the position enough to allow the TDC stop to be installed in the spark plug hole. Screw in
the piston stop until it touches the piston. Continue to turn the engine in the same direction until
the piston comes back up and touches the piston stop. Mark the degree wheel with a pen or
pencil on the number the pointer is on. Turn the engine in the other direction (same as engine