The last and most essential of camshaft tests is lobe lift which should be taken prior to the dismantling of the engine. Begin with the rocker arm cover(s) then pull the rocker arms and ball pivots away from the cylinder head(s). Secure a dial indicator on top such a way that the stem of the indicator leaning against the end of the exhaust valve pushrod while the plunger touching the pushrod. Turn the crankshaft slowly and get the Lash Adjuster on the bottom of the cam lobe which also gives the least height to the pushrod. Zero the dial-indicator, and after rotating the crank-shaft further, observe the maximum movement of the push-rod and the lobe lift indicated on the specification. Perform this to each of the remaining valves, noting that intake and exhaust valves may be standardized differently. Camshafts which are out of 0.002-inch of the specified lobe lift should be replaced with a new one. After the camshaft has been pulled out, wash the camshaft with solvent and examine the bearing journals for sign of wear, pitting, or seizure. When the journals are bad, both the camshaft and bearings will have to be replaced. Place a dial indicator on each camshaft bearing journal and record the inside diameter of each and record two readings on each bearing. Measure the bearing journals with a micrometer, to check the bearing for excessive wear or out-of-roundness; if the bearings are more than 0.001-inch out-of-round, replace the camshaft. Inspect the camshaft lobes for such things as discolouration, scoring and uneven wear; if these are okay and the lobe lift measurements were as laid down the camshaft can be used time again. Thoroughly wash out the Lash Adjusters and visually check each one for scuffing, score marks and worn areas; if any of the Lash Adjuster feet are concave, all the Lash Adjusters should be replaced. If new Lash Adjusters have been added, a new camshaft must be run as well, and never run previously used Lash Adjusters if the old camshaft is not installed in its locations. Camshaft bearing sleeves are fairly tough to install or replace due to the size and the fact that you need special tools and skills to work on them-it is better to drop the block to an automotive machine shop.
