Kevin Brown wrote:
>
> Mike Brinker wrote:
> >
> > Hello fellow enthusiasts!
> >
> > I am rebuilding a 73 TR6 engine. I have had to purchase a new
> > replacement cam which I believe is original stock. It is not a modified
> > cam (performance cam). I have installed the cam and was putting on the
> > keeper plate with the two bolts. Before tightening the bolts down, the
> > cam was able to move freely. Once I tighten the bolts down, the cam is
> > very difficult to move. I put on the cam timming chain sprocket to move
> > the cam and found it hard to turn. I was told by a reputable source that
> > the cam should move freely and the bolts to the keeper plate should be
> > very tight. How many lbs? I am using the original keeper plate which
> > shows some signs of wear where it rubs against the cam. I am using the
> > bently book for assembly instructions and find no mention or any helpful
> > hints regarding the cam keeper plate situation. Any suggestions? I
> > really need to hear from someone who has rebuilt there engine and or
> > knows what they are talking about.
> > After I get past this small bump, I will be preparing to time the cam.
> > Any elaborations would be helpful.
> >
> > Thanks for your help in advance.............Mike (S.E. Michigan)
Mike-
I ran into this identical problem with my Spit motor. since they are
similar in front end configuration, what I did my have some relevance.
First, I found the problem on my motor to be a warped front plate. This
was from possible poor reassembly or poor quality to begin with. The
front surfce simply was not flat. I cracked the keeper tightening it to
spec. That is how warped the front plate was. Put a straight edge
across it and examine for gaps. You will be surprised.
Related to that, I attempted to install TWO different keepers, both
turned out to be cracked already. Sounds like a common problem.
Second, I shimmed the keeper a few thousands. Each side was shimmed
differently. You are shimming to have the keeper perpendicular to the
cam axis, so disregard its orientation to the front plate. What you
want is free rotation of the cam and a tight fit of the keeper, with the
bolts torqued to spec (remember, these are 1/4" bolts, so it does not
take a lot). Use blue loctite and grade 8 bolts with good hardened
washers. You want to eliminate any possible warpage of parts on
reassembly.
Most keepers are badly worn because they are tightened up in a warped
fashion and the cam binds on them and wears an uneven groove.
You can buy thin shim material at a good hardware store. Brass will
do. It cuts easy. Maybe a Fosters can. Good luck.
Brian N.
79 Spit
65 Spit
63 Consul Capri
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