Camo guy's thread about cams

[camopaint0707]

Only problem is I don't have the tools etc to remove an engine or invert it. Now a shop might sure, will a buddy I find have this ability, also not likely. So that's kind of the dilemma. Say I do wanna have a shop essentially rebuild this motor that is getting upwards of $1000 in labor.

[camopaint0707]

Also guys I figure since this rebuild is getting pretty elaborate, I figured I might as well upgrade the transmission as well. I was going to replace the 4th gear shaft (from zzp), upgrade the torque converter, and get a transmission rebuild kit from rock auto.

[txslow6]

Also guys I figure since this rebuild is getting pretty elaborate, I figured I might as well upgrade the transmission as well. I was going to replace the 4th gear shaft (from zzp), upgrade the torque converter, and get a transmission rebuild kit from rock auto.

That's a great idea on transmission due to the high mileage and you wanting to begin really modifying. If you are going to pull the heads you might as well have some port work done as well. Sounds like this might snowball into a build thread of awesome proportions. Good Luck.

[camopaint0707]

That's a great idea on transmission due to the high mileage and you wanting to begin really modifying. If you are going to pull the heads you might as well have some port work done as well. Sounds like this might snowball into a build thread of awesome proportions. Good Luck.

Yeah it pretty much is. But do I have to pull the heads to do a cam swap and replace all this stuff or no?

[dsmuts]

You don't have to pull the heads to do a cam swap but if you pull them off you can port them and make it super racekar.

[231FUN]

You don't have to pull the heads off for a cam swap.
You don't even have to pull the motor for a cam swap.

[tms8582]

Keep us posted with your project

[camopaint0707]

Do I need to remove the heads to replace the lifters and retainers? I know this is noobish but the most I've done is supercharge my old cobalt. Never really tore apart an engine before.

[REDCRAPGP]

No.

[BillBoost37]

To put a cam in.. all you really need is a jack, and say 4 jack stands. You can do it right in the engine bay with normal tools, an air compressor (to hold valves up) and a spring compressor to remove/replace the springs. Very low cost on specialty tools.

[darkhorizon]

A "pull and flip" cam install is VERY outdated for a 3800.. With the plastic intake manifold gaskets being a timebomb anyway its always best to replace them with alum's, and alum gaskets are reusable... You can remove and replace a lim in less than 15 minutes while a motor removal could take a day for someone that doesnt know what he is doing.

[GTP89]

You do not have to remove the heads for a cam swap, but if you are changing springs while the heads are installed make sure to put in pressurized air into the cylinder to keep the valves from falling in while removing the springs. Also before you remove the timing chain make sure you take a picture of the dots lined up so you don't forget how it goes, it will save you a lot of pain and headache if you get it wrong when you put it back together.

[REDCRAPGP]

Yes take pictures of the dots and make sure you do it correct! Heads don't have to be removed unless you want to install the valve springs that way.

[camopaint0707]

Ok thank you guys for the input and advice.

[Scottydoggs]

before you take the timing gears off, line those dots up, this should put cylinder 1 up. ( tdc) and will make it easier to get lined back up later on.

[BillBoost37]

Well...it'll leave the crank in the correct place.

Scott..you know me, I couldn't give a crap how he does it.. in or out of the vehicle. I merely mentioned it's possible. His car.. his experiment..his loss when he surely blows it.

[tms8582]

I get the feeling that if this cam happens he will not be the guy installing it anyway. He doesn't have the tools, ability or resources to do the work he'll have to hire a mechanic to install.

[GTPpower]

I'm not sure that anyone has said it yet, so I will. You don't have to pull the heads for a cam swap.

[camopaint0707]

Well...it'll leave the crank in the correct place.

Scott..you know me, I couldn't give a crap how he does it.. in or out of the vehicle. I merely mentioned it's possible. His car.. his experiment..his loss when he surely blows it.

why would you say surely blow it?

[coolone]

Maybe a bit condescending... And my intention is not to offend...

But it would appear that maybe you've decided to bite off more than you can chew. I only say this due to the questions being asked -vs- the things you say you'll do. Also, without any prior knowledge or experience you will rebuild your tranny? Hmmmmm... Ok!

Maybe it's just me but that's not something I would do (Tranny), simple or not! Second is not knowing certain other simple things such as when replacing cam, what needs to be done along with it (to or not to remove heads). The cam is definitely a doable project, but there are some caveats! You should have a plan which you obviously don't. And don't say you just don't know this engine cause if you've done some research, you'd have found most of what you need to know without asking. I can only surmise that if there is a failure on this project, you will say because someone didn't tell you this, or that. Do yourself a favor and spend a little more time putting a plan together, researching all you want to do, make lists, assemble tools, parts, material, double check all, research some more, make revised lists, then ask. Or will you stop by here and ask torque specs for certain bolts as you reassemble? Just an example!

I for one will watch this thread... if for anything, out of a morbid curiosity!
: )