Thread: Breaking in new cams, different than normal?

Basically what I want to know is, when on the small lobes, are the big lobes contacting the rocker at all? In other words, since I won't be taking the motor above 4-5k for the break in period, will the big lobes even get broken in? Or should I stay on the small lobes for around 500 miles, then wire up the cam switch some where low like around 1500rpm and drive another 500 miles to break in the big lobes?

i wonder the same thing breaking in N1 cams how would u do that with the two different lobs....?

I'm pretty sure that the big lobe still contacts the rocker, but there is really not much pressure applied until the solenoid activates.But hopefully someone will chime in with a definitive answer.

I have been wondering the same thing. Most just say take it easy on the smalls for 300 miles or so then have fun. Some say f*ck it have fun the minute you get em in.....

Makes me wonder...



Dudeman

Technically, there is no "break in period" for cams.

Once the cams have reached the operating temperature of the car, after say 15 minutes of idling, you're good to go. The reason many say to take it easy, is to ensure that everything's seated properly, before you just dog it out and throw rockers/etc. That, and to make sure that you catch any debris from the cams that will come off, when you change the oil in say 500 miles.

(Just based on my experience, and what I've been told. I'm no rocket scientist.)

He is right. Just take it easy for like a drive around town and let her rip. I done a few V-8s where we threw the motor in car that had just be rebuilt and let it idle till it was warm and we were going sideways 5 mins after that.

Matt

on the questoin on small and big lobe. the cam is touching the both rockers all the time just the big lobe is used once the oiul pressure is applied to lock the rocker in place.

cams dont really have a break in period, now ifyour hd is completely built with all new parts then there will be a period of break in for theparts to seat and whatnot, but cams alone, there really isnt any period of break in

Ok, that's what I was thinking.

Thanks guys!

One quick one....

I had heard letting it idle can be bad because you are not at optimum oil pressure. Some say to prime the motor, start it, and drive around for 10min or so under 3k to let the cams wear in. As appose to just letting it sit for 10min...

Any thoughts?

Also, do you all use assembly lube when you install cams?

Thanks,

Dudeman