[GtoFM]

When changing out flat tappet hdy lifters and push rods and using the existing cam, is there a break-in procedure to follow? '65 389 CI Tri-power, cam specs unknown.

 

[PontiacJim]

When changing out flat tappet hdy lifters and push rods and using the existing cam, is there a break-in procedure to follow? '65 389 CI Tri-power, cam specs unknown.

Installing new lifters on an old cam could be asking for trouble right off the bat, but I know it is done. If me, I might take the cam down to the local machine shop and let them polish the lobes like they do on a crankshaft journal to get them smooth. They are not taking off any metal, just smoothing/polishing them up.

Then use a quality cam paste, not a runny liquid. I would want something to really cling to the lobes and bottom of the lifters. Use a little oil on the lifter bores, ends of the pushrods. Then break the cam/lifters in as you normally would and hope for the best.

 

[armyadarkness]

I dont know the specifics of your job, but once you gat a Pontiac engine to the point that the lifters can be changed, it's only another hour of work to swap the cam. Maybe there's a reason youre not, but just an FYI.

 

[GtoFM]

Jim, thanks for the info.
Army, my thoughts exactly after reading Jim's response!

 

[armyadarkness]

Jim, thanks for the info.
Army, my thoughts exactly after reading Jim's response!

I just did the job in November.

Once the intake, valve covers, and valley pan are removed to get at the lifters, the only thing left to do is pull the dizzy, timing cover, and gears to get at the cam.

 

[armyadarkness]

This was my cam swap. Plus, if your engine is ugly, you can give it a makeover!

UGLY MOTOR SOLUTIONS!

My engine builder did a lousy paint job on the engine and it was a real eye-sore. But what can you do when the engine is in the car? So, I just swapped out my cam and I took advantage of the opportunity to get the engine looking better, so that I didn't have to be so embarrassed at shows. My...

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