<VV> RE: installing a cam?

[Dennis & Debbie PLEAU]

When I changed a cam this way, I didn't unbolt the rod caps.  I did find I 
had to pull the sparkplugs on the side I pulled up so I wasn't 
pullingagainst a vacuum.

dp


>From: "Craig Nicol" <nicolcs at aol.com>
>To: <virtualvairs at corvair.org>, <reray at echoes.net>
>Subject: <VV> RE: installing a cam?
>Date: Fri, 13 Apr 2007 09:18:55 -0700
>
>
><snip>
>      I have been considering a moderate performance cam for a while now, ( 
>I
>want a little of a lopey idle) and was wondering how much work I would have
>to do to install it.  I have no intention of a full rebuild... and want to
>minimize disassembly.  Is there any shortcut for installing a cam or is
>pretty much full disassembly?  <unsnip>
>
>Yes, Ray, there is a HUGE shortcut - I'm surprised no one had mentioned
>it... After you have stripped all the tin, top cover, oil pan, bell 
>housing,
>and rear accessory housing, then, remove the rod bolts for one side of the
>engine and push the rods up into the cylinders.  Finally, just unbolt the
>eight case bolts and oil pickup bolt, and split the cases.  Separate the
>cases and install the new cam.  Make double extra sure that the cam is
>properly aligned to the crank.  Word of caution - this is not a beginner
>project.  This approach is simpler than the total disassembly approach, but
>still pretty advanced for a self-described "non-mechanic". You'll want to
>put in new lifters and you will still need to pull the valve covers to get
>the valve train set into the new lifters and for final adjustment.
>Craig Nicol