Camshaft R1  vs standard


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Things which makes me wonder if they may have just put in a standard
camshaft instead of the always hard to find R1:

1. Lots of ping, even for an R1.  Shorter valve timing on the stock cam
would raise cylinder pressures.

2. Idles easily below 500 rpm.

3. Doesn't like to pull hard above 4,500 rpm.

Other than putting a dial indicator and degree wheel, any sure way to know?
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the R cam will idle down pretty 
good.  One thing you might try that would require only a dial indicator would 
be to check the intake opening.  Since the R engine has the tab with 24 
degrees marked on it, set the intake at .030", put a dial indicator on that 
valve and turn the engine over until it starts to open.  I believe the stock 
is about 11 degrees and the R is 17 BTDC.  While you have the dial indicator 
on, check the total valve lift at zero clearance.  Stock cam should be about 
.390" and the R cam about .425".  I know this is not what the books say but 
is what I've got when I checked them in an engine.  They will both probably 
check a little under this since you will lose some through the rockers and 
springs.  Some claim the rockers are not quite 1.5 also.

TedHarbit@aol.com  Aug 2001


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Check for correct cam gear
Timing gear backlash measured with a feeler gauge at several points should
be within .003" to .010". Too tight, eats the cam gear. Too loose, it will
probably knock.
If you just want to verify that the cam gear is correct you don't really
need a degree wheel for that.
Cam (or valve) timing on the standard Stude V8 is checked by adjusting
cylinder no. 1 intake valve to .030" clearance. Turn engine by hand (easier
with all spark plugs removed) in normal direction of rotation until no. 6
cylinder is on compression stroke ( distributor rotor pointing at no. 6 plug
wire). As the engine is turned, slowly feel the pushrod for no. 1 intake and
stop turning engine as soon as all valve clearance is eliminated (push rod
will quit moving up and down and will resist twisting). At this point the
'IN-OP 1' mark on the vibration damper should be aligned with the pointer.