2 replies to this topic

[Bluemini]

Please only answer if you know!

Does anyone know how to time a cam in properly? I have a Kent 296, but this is my first attempt at doing a cam like this, I've always got my mate to do them for me. I know how to put a standard cam in by lining the dots up etc, but thats as far as it goes unfortunatley. Bear in mind that I need it to be spot on as there is no room for error on an engine of this price!!! I have adjustable vernier too, which is confusing me even more!
The more I read the guide, the more confused I'm getting.

[Guess-Works.com]

Cam timinig, there is a lengthy artical on this on the MiniSpares Calver's Corner, but in summary you will need...

1. A Timiing protractor ( big disk like a plastic plate with degrees marked on it for 0-180 BTDC and ATDC )
2. A dial test indicator or similar measuring equipment to accurately locate TDC, Top Dead Center

Procedure..

With the head removed and the Timing protractor attached to the crank, rotate the crank until Cyl 1 is at the top.
Set up the DTI on a stand to show the height of the piston.
Rotate the crank back and forth around the top of its travel and you'll see the DTI go up and down.
When the dti is at the top, this is near TDC.
Set a marker on the protractor @ 0 degeree's
Install the cam, timing chain.
Put a push rod in into the second hole ( this is the inlet for no 1 cylinder ) and using the DTI againg rotate the crank ( the correct direction ) until the rod reaches it's highest lift..
The protractor will now show you the timing of the Cam as you have installed it
It may be way off which means you will have to remove the timing change and come back a cog, but it you started dot to dot then it will be close, then use youre venier gear to get to the actual desired timing point.

There is a little more detail in Calver's doc which should be noted....

[Guess-Works.com]

Ooops... forgot to mention...

Read Vizards bible, aswell... by adjusting the timing a couple of degrees either side from Kent recommended can produce interesting results.

For reference I have a 276 timed @ 104 degrees ( 106 is standard ) which gives it a little more midrange and top end at the expense of a lumpier idle.