Degree a Cam

How to Degree A Cam - Lunati Power

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How to Degree A Cam
The following is the method of degreeing a cam that Lunati Cams recommends. The first step in degreeing a cam is to obtain a few itemsthat should be a part of every serious engine builder’s tool chest. These items are: A large Degree Wheel, such as LUNATI CAMS P/N 80000 A Dial Indicator & Magnetic Base Stand, such as LUNATI CAMS P/N 80012 A Steel Deck Strap Kit, such as LUNATI CAMS P/N 80013 All of the above is available as LUNATI CAMS DEGREE WHEEL KIT, P/N 80001 Some suitable pointer (made from coat hanger wire, paper clip,etc.) rigidly attached to the block

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The first step is to install your new camshaft and line up the stock timing marks.

To begin the actual degreeing procedure, the degree wheel should be attached to the front of the crankshaft. A pointer of some type such as a piece of wire should besecured to the front of the engine. The engine should be capable of turning in either direction. Use a crank socket or other suitable tool to rotate the engine. At this point you will leave the wheel somewhat loose.

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How to Degree A Cam - Lunati Power

Rotate the crankshaft until the number one piston is atapproximate Top Dead Center and align the pointer with TDC on the degree wheel. Tighten the wheel.

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How to Degree A Cam - Lunati Power

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The next step is to find true Top Dead Center (TDC). The most accurate method is to secure a flat strap (1-1/2 x 1) that

will bridge the bore (with the heads removed).A Steel Deck Strap Kit is included in the Lunati Degree Wheel Kit, or is available separately (P/N 80013). (If the heads are on the engine, another method of finding TDC is necessary. This method uses an old, discarded sparkplug. Remove the porcelain and use a tap, 3/8" 24NF, to cut threads through the plug. Insert a Bolt so that it will protrude through the plug approximately one inch. Removethe rocker arms and push-rods so the valves will not be bent.

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Rotate the engine clockwise until the piston contacts the stop. At this point you should mark the degree wheel.

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How to Degree A Cam - Lunati Power

Next, rotate the engine counterclockwise until the piston contacts the stop again. Make anothermark on the degree wheel. If the degree wheel is properly located, the marks will be an equal number of degrees on both sides of TDC. If not, the degree wheel will have to be relocated. For example, if you come up with 34 degrees on one side and 30 degrees on the other side, the wheel will have to be rotated 2 degrees to compensate for the misalignment. After the wheel has been relocated, thepiston should hit the stop the same number of degrees on either side of TDC. After TDC has been found, remove the piston stop to allow complete engine rotation.

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Install the lifter in the number one intake lifter bore. Use a mechanical lifter for flat tappet grinds and a roller tappet if the cam is a roller grind. The indicator must be positioned securely above the lifter. The stem from thedial indicator should be aligned with the lifter as close as possible. Misalignment will cause an improper reading. Rotate the engine at least two revolutions. Make sure the dial indicator is working freely and the lifter is not sticking or binding in the bore, and that you have adequate indicator travel. Rotate the engine clockwise until the lifter is on the heel, or base circle of the cam lobe...