[Ozzie H.]

As a side note...

Do not run a billet upper cam gear on the soft iron factory cam thrust plate. The excessive wear is significant. I had one combo come into the shop where the cam gear ate 75% of the way through the retaining plate!

If there is a torrington thrust bearing on the back of the cam gear you are ok.




S

Thanks for the "heads up" on the billet hazard. I'm wondering if it was a competition engine and how much use was on the cam gear. Any added information would be appreciated. I may have to make a change.

 

[Ozzie H.]

Replacement of the original is a worthy goal. Another possibility is the Cloyes. I used the Cloyes billet. It also has the 9 positions ("straight up"; 4 retarded; 4 advanced; all at increments of 2 crankshaft degrees). The Ford may be a better value.(?) If you go with a roller and want to use the original oil slinger, be sure to check the chain to slinger clearance. Some run close. I added a thin shim to assure sufficient clearance. All worked well.