Anybody Interested In Helping With A SC Cam Install How-To Article/Video?

[SeanMatteson]

I've ordered one of the CompCams new core custom camshafts. I'll be swapping in some CompCams beehive style valve springs, new retainers, spring seats, etc. and BTM roller rockers at the same time. I'm hoping to have all the hardware in the next two weeks, but we could schedule the actual work anytime in the next few months.

I thought there have been enough questions regarding cam swaps in a SuperCoupe/XR7 with the engine in the car, that this would present a great opportunity to fully document the procedure.

I guess I'm OK with handling the technical aspects of the swap, but I'm looking for someone who might have some videographer skills to assist with the documentation part of the project.

Anyone interested?

Best regards,

Sean

[shotbirdsc]

I would be interested to help out Sean, I want to do a cam/head swap this winter too and this would really help with some experience. I have a digital recorder also just not 100% familiar with how it works but I am sure it's not that hard.

[SeanMatteson]

Eric,

This would be taking place at my house down here in Mount Hope, so I know it is a pretty major drive for you. ...I appreciate the offer, and I'll keep you in the loop in so far as scheduling. Hopefully we can work something out for you to work with me on this little project.

I'm sure there's enough room here for one or two other people to be a part of it.

Cheers,

Sean

[Michael Mattix]

I do not live close, but I do have over 5 years as an aircraft technical writer with an Airframe and Powerplant license (Mechanic). I could be a second set of eyes (which in my business is very good) and if all who participate don't mind email questions from me, I would be willing to help. If I screw up my procedures at work and all the engineers and users don't catch everything during a review, a mistake could be very costly at altitude :eek: :( !

[SeanMatteson]

I do not live close, but I do have over 5 years as an aircraft technical writer with an Airframe and Powerplant license (Mechanic). I could be a second set of eyes (which in my business is very good) and if all who participate don't mind email questions from me, I would be willing to help. If I screw up my procedures at work and all the engineers and users don't catch everything during a review, a mistake could be very costly at altitude :eek: :( !

Michael,

I never considered the 'long-distance approach' before, but it sounds like you would be a great asset to this project in so far as putting together the documentation part of it! We'll have to work out the logistics of this, but otherwise, I think you'd make a perfect member of the team.

Maybe I'll have to get internet access out in the garage, and purchase a web-cam to have running during these efforts?! I've got a wireless network set up here at home, but I'm not sure that I've got sufficient range into the garage. Worse case scenario, I could run some Cat5e out there from my router/switch. The garage is directly below where I'm typing from right now!

Sean

[Blown_347_SC]

Let me know Sean, and I'll come help out... as long as it's before Christmas, because I'll be going home for the winter semester co-op (likely)

Wes.

[shotbirdsc]

Sean the distance is not a big deal only a few extra kms that the boys from TO would drive, I don't mind helping out and the hands on technical that I can get will be invalueable when I decide on my cam swap. I can also bring a little hg experience although I know that doesn't come close to yours! :D

[Michael Mattix]

Sean,
I wouldn't worry about getting an online method of transferring what is exactly happening. This is why: In my job, I have to interpret what mechanicese and engineerese really means all the time. Like looking at drawings, pictures, etc. I rarely get to go out to an aircraft because much of what I do can be done at a desk. I would say around 80%. These are usually developed before the prototype is actually installed, if you can believe that! If someone writes it down on a piece of paper, I can usually figure out all the little details. Of course, any specific information that you won't find anywhere except during the install will have to be noted, but where you can, substituting manual references will take a lot of the detail out. We can add that later. With my general aircraft mechanic training and little to no experience (no set/preferred way of doing things), I don't assume anything and will ask a lot of detailed questions that usually ends up in the procedures which someone with experience will probably not need, but the first timer will be very happy with. I have been through an engine overhaul class (piston and turbine), so I can recognize parts pretty good and know how they usually remove/install with certain special tools. Before actually seeing car parts (pistons/connecting rods/crankshaft), I thought they were probably pretty big. After seeing them right in front of me, they are a lot smaller than aircraft stuff! It's pretty funny when you look at them side by side. For example, average piston size is 5.25 inches (133.35 mm I think). Matter of fact, I might need to get started on it soon if you guys are going to do it soon. That way you guys would have something to work off of and mark up. Of course, as you mentioned earlier, video is probably the best method, but I have found that other logistics hinder it in some cases. What I mean is that some of the pictures I have worked off of before were good enough for engineering or the customers, but not good enough (close ups/far away) for Technical publications. So, some pictures had to be retaken. In dealing the past couple of years with military aircraft and what is going on right now with Iraq, it's hard to get access to the actual hands on stuff. A couple of first questions, are you putting in all aftermarket equipment? Or are some of them stock? Sounds like it's going to be a cool project when done!

[fturner]

Hey Sean,

I'd be interested to help out. Also, I have a pretty good cam corder with a tripod, as well as a prety good digital camera. I could bring both with my laptop so we can download the pictures. Afterwards, I can digitize the video from the cam corder onto my 1 computer that supports video input. Documenting, well, looks like you have a volunteer that would be good at it :). I may be able to set up some streaming video from my server here at home for Michael to use, but only as a temp solution cause I'd think Mountancable would be upset if I gobble up bandwidth with everyone wanting to watch the video ;).

I'd need to know what weekend(s) before hand. Weekdays are bad for me as I may end up having to travel on very short notice (comes with the job LOL).

Frit

[SeanMatteson]

I'd need to know what weekend(s) before hand. Weekdays are bad for me as I may end up having to travel on very short notice (comes with the job LOL).

Frit,

Sounds like you've got a job like mine! :D

I'm still waiting for an ETA on the parts, but it looks like I should have them in the next couple of weeks. I'll keep you in the loop!

Cheers,

Sean

[XR7 Dave]

This is actually more than just cam swap info. Sean is doing a true bolt in cam swap which is something that wasn't possible even one year ago. All these parts are made to work with stock heads and stock valve train. If all goes as planned, it will pave the way for others to do similar swaps without having to worry about spring fitment, pushrod length, rocker geometry, etc. For the first time, SCers will be able to do a cam swap without having to re-engineer a bunch of stuff.

Get ready for some chills on this one because when that baby fires up it's gonna sound mean. :D

[SeanMatteson]

This is actually more than just cam swap info. Sean is doing a true bolt in cam swap which is something that wasn't possible even one year ago. All these parts are made to work with stock heads and stock valve train. If all goes as planned, it will pave the way for others to do similar swaps without having to worry about spring fitment, pushrod length, rocker geometry, etc. For the first time, SCers will be able to do a cam swap without having to re-engineer a bunch of stuff.

Get ready for some chills on this one because when that baby fires up it's gonna sound mean. :D

I have been remiss...

Please let me introduce my 'pusher'! :D

...I have ordered the cam and related parts through David and SuperCoupes Unlimited. I'll leave it up to David, if he'd like to share the cam specs with you folks. Personally, I don't feel a need to hide them from anyone.

The key to what David has stated above is that traditionally, SC'ers running a custom cam have been using a reground stock camshaft. This has required that pushrod length be adjusted (in many cases), shims be used under the rockers, etc. In this case, we're starting from a brand new core. Just this year, CompCams started offering these cams. The beauty of it is that you are not bound by any of the constraints associated with the stock grind. You can specify true custom specifications for intake and exhaust duration, lift, and lobe separation. What's more, you can do all of this without having to machine so much away from the stock lobe profiles that you cause geometry problems. That's why it's plausible that the stock pushrods, stock valves, even stock rockers could be used.

If you can't tell already, I'm very excited about this project! David has been a great source of information, and very helpful in acquiring the parts. ...And in the Spring, I'm hoping he'll also help me with tune.

Best regards,

Sean

[Jeff]

Sean,

If i could i would love to come and help (watch) we all know i really don't know much so no sence lying and say i could help. I would more sit in the corner and watch you guys lol. I could help out if there is heavy lifting :D

anyways if you have room i would like to help anyway i can.

Thanks,

Jeff

[SeanMatteson]

Sean,

If i could i would love to come and help (watch) we all know i really don't know much so no sence lying and say i could help. I would more sit in the corner and watch you guys lol. I could help out if there is heavy lifting :D

anyways if you have room i would like to help anyway i can.

Thanks,

Jeff

Jeff,

Once we figure out more of the details about when this is going to happen, and who is going to be involved in assisting with the work and/or with the documentation, then I'll let you know. If there's room, you're welcome to join us.

Cheers,

Sean

[Greg Coleman]

I may be interrested in this Sean as I'm considering putting a cam in both vehicles.

[92strokedbird]

Thats a great idea Sean,im sure that there will be more than just a few who could take advantage of such a useful guide.I would also like to do a cam swap in my engine as i am running a stock cam with the 4.2.If possible i can accomplish this before Dave comes up to tune our cars in the spring,i just bought new injectors and the new plenum should be done in a few weeks.I will have to talk to Dave about a cam for my engine.Thanks Sean.

[XR7 Dave]

Ewww. Stock cam in stroker engine. Not good. :(

[SeanMatteson]

...Parts have arrived in Cinci. They'll be on their way to me shortly.

Hopefully, it won't be long and we'll be talking schedule for the swap! :D

Cheers,

Sean

[92strokedbird]

I would be interested in hearing from you on a cam,Dave.Your PM is full!

[ShawnSC1]

Sean, sounds like you got something good going on. Right on you got my thumbs up. I allways wanted to get a good cam for my SC. So I will be keeping updated to this thread. Thanks

[XR7 Dave]

I would be interested in hearing from you on a cam,Dave.Your PM is full! Hence the email link in my sig. ;)

I am working closely with Comp Cams to bring some packages that have been heretofore unavailable to SC'ers. Sean's package is designed to provide 6000rpm capability with smoother idle than the specs might suggest, and still be a bolt on application for an SC with stock heads or unmodified but lightly ported heads (as Seans are). This is something that is not possible with a stock regrind.

This is a big plus for people who have their heads ported locally because most shops will not be familiar with the "special" requirements of an SC head. When you order from Steigemeier or Morana, those guys know what you need, but not everyone else will. Because this cam package works with stock spring seats, pushrods, guides and seals, it takes that variable out of the equation.

[92strokedbird]

Thanks Dave ,you have mail!

[SeanMatteson]

I've got the parts from SuperCoupes Unlimited!

...Now I just need to assemble a list of other required parts, and pick them up. Hopefully, it won't be too much longer and we can start looking at the calendar to schedule the swap.

Cheers,

Sean

[Ryan A Harris]

Sean, are you gonna be donong a dyno comparision? What else are you adding while the cam is going in? What are the specs of the cam? I'd like to make it over to see this go in, but looks like you have lots of guys, so I can wait to see what the date for the install will be, and ho wmany are going to show. I don't want to make the garage a cramped area for ya.

[SeanMatteson]

Sean, are you gonna be donong a dyno comparision? What else are you adding while the cam is going in?

Ryan, aside from the SCI UD pulleys, I haven't really added anything since the last trip to the dyno where I hit 255 RWHP and 367 RWTQ. Honestly, I'd love to hit the dyno once more before the swap to get a proper baseline. I'd be tempted to swap on the BHJ before then to make sure that gets factored in. This project will involve swapping in the new cam, plus the BTM roller rockers I've had for more than a year and a half now. I also want to swap in the return plenum that you ported for me way back when, and the ported IC tubes also. Otherwise, there might be a little cosmetic work done under the hood, just to increase the bling-factor. That would be about it though.

What are the specs of the cam?

This cam has 218/230 dur (I/E) on 114 deg LCA. It will make 0.519" lift with 1.7:1 rockers. Dave figures I should still get about 12 inHg vacuum at idle. We're speculating that this should put me near 275 RWHP if I keep my current blower setup. If I do something to replace the peak boost I'm giving up by running the improved cam specs, then I could be pushing the 300 RWHP mark. Since the earliest days of my owning the SC, I've always said that 300 RWHP would be where I'd like to be. It's less important to me that the car be quick in a straight line, than that it be a blast to drive. I set a goal for myself to get the car out to an open track day or two this past year, and I failed in that regard. I'm really hoping to make up for that this coming season. I've done a bunch of stuff last year to get the car track worthy, and adding the cam (and a few more ponies in the process, I hope) should only go towards making that experience even more fun!

I'd like to make it over to see this go in, but looks like you have lots of guys, so I can wait to see what the date for the install will be, and ho wmany are going to show. I don't want to make the garage a cramped area for ya.

Well, I've been thinking that before I can start this project, I really need to get the garage cleaned up and properly organized. Unfortunately, getting the time to do this will likely only delay the start of the project. ...But I think it's really going to be necessary. At this point, I've still got my brother's Skidoo in my garage, as I've been doing some long needed repairs to it. I've got one other major job to do to that, and then it will be going home to his place. Also, my car really isn't mobile right now with that messed up Bilstein shock. I've got the Koni Sports to replace the fronts, but I need to get that done before I could even think about driving the car to TAG or Jeff's. ...Not to mention that the weather might rule out that possibility. However, I'll try to keep everyone here in the loop as things begin to take shape, and certainly you're welcome to join in the fun. :D

Best regards,

Sean

[92strokedbird]

Sean,I would like to be there for the cam swap as well if there is room and I am not working shift at that time.I have also contacted David about a cam and it looks like a go for me as well for a cam swap.This project will have to wait for me as i dont have a garage but it would be nice to be there so i can remember all of the steps along the way to make it less time consuming.I have to do this before David comes up in the spring to tune our cars.I have been waiting to see how many people are coming over first so as not to cramp the garage.If i cant make it or you dont have space then please could i at least get a copy for my own cam swap.Thanks!

[SeanMatteson]

Sean,I would like to be there for the cam swap as well if there is room and I am not working shift at that time.I have also contacted David about a cam and it looks like a go for me as well for a cam swap.This project will have to wait for me as i dont have a garage but it would be nice to be there so i can remember all of the steps along the way to make it less time consuming.I have to do this before David comes up in the spring to tune our cars.I have been waiting to see how many people are coming over first so as not to cramp the garage.If i cant make it or you dont have space then please could i at least get a copy for my own cam swap.Thanks!

Stephen,

I'm glad to hear that you're going to be swapping in a better camshaft too! It will be awesome to see what it does for your stroker motor!

I'm hoping we'll have plenty of room, and plenty of tasks to share with everyone. We'll have to keep organized, but I think we'll be able to swing it. Worse case scenario, if we can't all be present, then certainly, any resulting documenation or video will be made available to the interested parties. The idea here is not to go through this so that a select few of us have the knowledge to do the job, but so that anyone willing to attempt it will have our experience as a guide.

Cheers,

Sean

[92strokedbird]

Thanks Sean,I just bought a set of 42lb/hr ford injectors for the engine as i feel that the 38lb injectors might be labouring at the task of more boost and more cam as well.I am glad to see that you will have some room,thanks again.I too would like to see the 300 HP mark,that seems like a good goal and it might make the car feel lighter as well.LOL. I have known for a while that the cam was lacking in the engines performance but also knew that i would have to upgrade other things as well.I am also going to install head studs at the same time as other things that would be good to replace such as plugs,wires and the main accessory belt.Maybe even new wires,the list gets larger as i go thru it in my mind.Hope that i am not working shift when you are going to do the swap as i would really like to be there for this swap.Thanks again!

[SeanMatteson]

I'm still working on gathering parts. I will be on the road a lot in the month of January, and there's no way I can schedule the start in that timeframe, so it's looking like February will be the earliest I can swing this.

As we get closer, and things start to take shape, I'll post here again to let all interested parties know. Then we can start to figure out a good time for those interesting in participating.

Cheers,

Sean

[Greg Coleman]

I'm deffinitly there bro as I want to do both of my'n!! :D

[fturner]

If you want me to do the video stuff let me know.

Frit

[SeanMatteson]

I'm sorry to be resurrecting such an old thread, but this new post is very much related, and so I thought it appropriate. At this point, I'm less concerned about developing a How-To on this, than I am about getting the job done. I'll try to take lots of pics so that I can put together the article later if time permits.

Finally, after months of gathering parts, a delay due to the trip to Carlisle, and way too much procrastination on my part, I'm looking to kick off the cam swap this weekend.

I know it's a long weekend, and I'm not expecting that people who kinda sorta committed to helping back when this thread was originally active will still be able to attend, and I'm fine with that.

I'm hoping to start on the tear-down on Friday. I have some committments this weekend in so far as getting my son to hockey, and a couple of other things, and I'll try to get some information up here soon, but I thought I'd put out the call again...

Is anyone available and interested in assisting over the course of this weekend???

Best regards,

Sean

[fturner]

I don't have alot planned for this weekend, so count me in.... just let me know the time etc.

I have a feeling my wife would probably luv to get me out of the house after lingering around for a weeks vacation ROFL!!!!!!

Besides I have a personal reason.... I need several folks who has been around these birds to listen to mine and see if all is good LOLOL!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just msg me and let me know...

Frit

[92strokedbird]

I know that i was going to attend but i still have to install injectors and put the chip in the computer.This was a job that i am going to try and address this weekend,the IC building is taking up time as well.If i find a free day i will pm you,thanks Sean. :)

[SeanMatteson]

I know that i was going to attend but i still have to install injectors and put the chip in the computer.This was a job that i am going to try and address this weekend,the IC building is taking up time as well.If i find a free day i will pm you,thanks Sean. :)

No. Thank-you, Stephen, and you Fraser.

Cheers,

Sean

[charged92]

How did I miss this when it was first posted! I didn't realise there was a bolt in cam! Hope this puppy works good! Seeing who the "pusher" is I'm sure it will. :D

Keep us posted! This is something I will be doing when I can get back at it.

[Ryan A Harris]

Sean, happy to hear you're getting started on this project. During the weekend I'll be tied up(tight if I'm lucky ;) ) workin on my bird as well. I have finally recieved my bilsteins(I'll take pics if you still want to have a look Sean), and they will be going back in, along with other things than need my attenion.



I will have my phone near by, if you need any help, or a break.

[SeanMatteson]

Sorry gang. There has been a major change in plans. It's most likely the cam swap won't be happening this weekend.

...Stay tuned.

Regards,

Sean

[SeanMatteson]

About a week ago Thursday, I started tearing the SC down for the cam swap. I haven't had a lot of time, but the car was basically just sitting there lately anyway.

At present, the passenger side head is off the car, and the driver side is ready to be unbolted. Then the timing cover needs to come off. Beyond that, I'll be swapping out the old cam and working to reassemble everything.

...Just an update.

Cheers,

Sean

[charged92]

Can't wait! ;)

[SkunkWorks]

giddy up, cant wait to see/hear it when its done.. :)

[Paul93SC]

I'll come up to turn a wrench or two Sean! Just need to know what days you're going to be home and working on it.

Next weekend is no good for me (but I think you're busy then too). How about the long weekend coming up? Two of us could get a lot done in one day if we put some effort into it ;)

[shotbirdsc]

Are you working on this car tomorrow Sunday? I am in Niagara falls for a stag tonight and could stop by and lend a hand if needed tomorrow. I would be interested to see how the install actually goes for the cam.

[SeanMatteson]

Hey gang!

...Sorry. I am without internet access at home until further notice.

FRIGGIN' LIGHTNING!!!

...I lost my cable modem, a TV (only six months old too!), a ceiling fan, two garage door openers, two phones, a nice photo printer and more in a momentary flash. So much for surge protectors (in some cases).

I hope to spend some more time on the car this week. Paul, I'll give you a shout.

Cheers,

Sean

[SkunkWorks]

I can get ya deal on a TV from work if ya want... leme know.

Plasmas are a lot cheaper now... and good WAF aswell ... ( other then the price... :rolleyes: )