After removing the camshaft from the engine, clean it with solvent and dry it, then inspect the bearing journals for uneven wear, pitting, and signs of seizure; if damaged, both the camshaft and bearings need replacement. Measure the bearing journals with a micrometer to check for excessive wear or out-of-round conditions, replacing the camshaft if it exceeds 0.001-inch out-of-round. Examine the camshaft lobes for heat discoloration, score marks, chipped areas, pitting, and uneven wear; if the lobes are in good condition and the lobe lift measurements are within specified limits, the camshaft may still be usable. For Lash Adjusters that have been sticking due to sludge and varnish buildup, clean them thoroughly without mixing them up, ensuring they are reinstalled in their original locations. Inspect each Lash Adjuster for scoring and galling, checking the pushrod seat and heel for wear; if any Lash Adjuster heel is concave or if the bottom of any Lash Adjuster shows excessive wear, replace the entire set. If conventional valve Lash Adjusters require replacement, install a new camshaft as well; roller type Lash Adjusters can be reused with a new camshaft. Worn Lash Adjusters should be replaced as internal components are not sold separately, although cleaning may restore functionality. To dismantle a valve Lash Adjuster, hold the plunger down and extract the retainer ring, then remove the pushrod seat and oil metering valve, followed by the plunger, check ball, and spring. Clean all components with solvent and inspect for wear, ensuring that a contaminated Lash Adjuster can operate properly after reassembly. If a Lash Adjuster is worn out, replace it and clean any sealer coating from new Lash Adjusters before reassembly, which involves placing the check ball, inserting the spring and retainer, and filling the assembly with oil before installing the metering valve and pushrod seat. When reinstalling Lash Adjusters, ensure they are placed in their original bores with oiling orifices facing the front of the engine, and coat each Lash Adjuster with moly-base grease or engine assembly lube. Camshaft bearing replacement requires special tools and expertise, so it is advisable to take the block to an automotive machine shop for proper handling.
