Cam installation C Clamp

Work smarter not harder !

I tried to instal cam caps by bolting it down and end up with stripped tread and had to start all over again !

Using C clamps at $10 each was a very good deal that could save me $$$ in helicoils installation.

It work perfectly and easy to use !



 

From the Suzuki GS850 factory service manual...

Got to be honest I prefer my "stud and nut" method (it takes longer but not as long as a thread repair), both the clamp methods will work fine but I would worry (particularly with vice grips) that the clamps would mark the head (just my opinion )

What I have been doing for years now when I install BIG LIFT cams in my Kz1000 motors, I start out bringing the cam caps down into place with longer 6mm bolts. That way you grab a bunch of threads not just a couple!!! Then when I get the caps near to them being in place I remove the longer bolts one by one and replace them with the correct length bolts. 

I have NEVER stripped the cam cap threads in my life doing it this way!!!! 

 

I like the longer bolts option too !  Any drillingl or/ and tap required ?

What length studs should be used if converting to cam studs?  Should they be installed like ARP does head bots, bottom out then screw out about 1 turn?

MJinCO wrote:

What length studs should be used if converting to cam studs?  Should they be installed like ARP does head bots, bottom out then screw out about 1 turn?

The stud and nut method I refer to is a temp assembly option. Once seated swop them out one at a time for the original bolts (I don't think there will be enough clearance to the cover as a permanent conversion without the nuts only being on a couple of threads when you start pulling it down)

Wookie is correct, I did some math and trial fits last winter and there isn't enough clearance to the valve cover for permanent studs - even if you use clamps to install the caps.  Having enough stud length to end up with about 3 thread pitches above the nut when tight can still interfere with the valve cover.

To convert the caps to stud fit you need to spot face each cap at the 4 bolt locations to reduce their height.