<VV> Cam bearings

[Clark Hartzel]

Someone suggested needle bearings on a cam.  This won't work on the 2nd or
3rd bearing as it would be impossible to install.  The bearing diameters are
smaller than the cam lobes so you couldn't get them over the lobes.  You
could use a needle bearing on the small end by installing on the cam and
then dropping into one block half.  To use a needle bearing on the gear end
you would have to install on the cam first then press the gear on.  To me,
the easiest way, if you can't find a better block, is to bore the block a
few thousands oversize and metal spray or chrome the cam journals.  Of
course if you ever want to change cams you would have to metal spray or
chrome the new cam.  I suppose the wear happens but in 44 years of playing
with Corvairs and racing the engines on the drag strip and in dune buggies,
I have never seen cam bearing wear.  I can also say I have never checked it
either!!!
Clark (ignorance is bliss) Hartzel