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I am planning on changing from a flat tappet hydraulic cam to a hydraulic roller cam in my 350 which is being stroked. I am using a 4 bolt main block from the early 70's. What changes will I have to make in the timing gear area for holding the cam in place? Will I have to use a special button and spring with a different type of timing cover or just the standard cam plate? Also do I have to change the distributor gear. I have heard so many things that I was wondering what others have done. Thanks
Rodney
Rodney

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Vette(s): 1979, Targa Blue (72 Color), Pace Car rear spoiler, L88 hood, Dark blue factory interior, 525HP 406, HD 700R4, 370 gears,Steeroids, composite rear spring, TT IIs wrapped in T/A Radials.
See the attached article. Retro-fit roller cams require a cam button to limit the travel (.003" to .005") from front to rear. You'll have to see if your current timing cover will work with a button and the required clearances. Mine did not and I went with a billet after market cover that had a nice boss where the cam button goes.
I have a comp cams retro fit roller in my 406 and it works fantastic!!
They are pricey though...

This is a cool timing cover option. Allows quick end play adjustment...
Good luck!!

Paul
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You will need a "button", unless the cam is machined for a roller type thrust bearing on the plate to hold it in.
You WILL need a bronze gear for the distributor, unless you enjoy getting stuck in the middle of BFE with a stripped cam and dist. gear. Roller cams are made from a much harder metal than a normal cast cam. If you run a machined cast iron dist. gear on a roller cam, it WILL self destruct both gears...
The bronze gear is much more forgiving, and
will survive without damaging the cam.
You WILL need a bronze gear for the distributor, unless you enjoy getting stuck in the middle of BFE with a stripped cam and dist. gear. Roller cams are made from a much harder metal than a normal cast cam. If you run a machined cast iron dist. gear on a roller cam, it WILL self destruct both gears...


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in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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