It's been a few years since i did it, but the Lisle brand cam bearing tool had an extension that i used by itself to avoid pulling the radiator when i did the #3 bearing. I recall placing a socket over the end of the threaded extension link and pounding lightly on the socket with a 4lb sledge, so as not to damage the tool or leave any marks. That tool *might* have been returned to the store in pristine condition as I don't recall ever doing the job, if you get my drift.

I'll wager a socket over the threads with a 10" long 1/2" drive extension in it would get you to #4 with no problems.

 

White, why did you say 'new short block here I come'?? Did you find something nasty?

 

aim -- that is much more helpful in regards to effort or method on replacing the cam bearings with engine in the bay. I did happen on your thread (by accident) doing google searches:

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...deal-over.html

I'm seeing that your cam bearing shows a bit more worse wear. That being more continuous material in the soft babbit material having spalled off.

I've done some scrounging around on characterizing the cam bearing degradation mechanisms. Will put something together that should be helpful to all that are considering a cam swap.

 

As you can imagine, I've had many scenarios run through this head of mine. I do (did) lack an understanding of how these "bearing" surface operate. I'll get into that later, but at the time of that post, here was my thought pattern:

1. replace all cam bearings -- its a wear item and counter part to the camshaft
2. pull out engine to do it properly
3. what other bearings might show similar distress if these are? Crank!
4. engine is out, go for it and inspect all bearings, especially the mains
5. what the hell, better check the cylinders (hash marks still there?)
6. Finally verify any head cracking?!?!
7. Major downtime for the truck
8. Assume condition is not salvageable w/o rebuild
9. Ergo ----> new small block


At this time, I have a some changes to that, but still looking to compile some more support for it. However, my wife took the news very well.

 

whats the part number on the camshaft, if you don't mind?

 

Thanks for your patience considering how deep I'm dug in.

camshaft
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/CRN-704121/

 

Powerband doesn't really start on that one till around 1500? What do you use your truck for??

 

My usage is DD and offroading.

 

What flavor of offroading? If you want gobs of bottom end grunt, look for a cam that starts at idle, or 700 or so RPM.....

 

thanks.