last minute questions before cam swap

[mud-dog27]

ok so my parts are finally in.....and so is the cold weather and snow but **** it.

so im doing a cam and ive be reading lots bout the swap but just wanted to throw out some last minute questions that i was having some last minute questions about so here goes...

head studs/bolts- ive always thought it was standard to replace them but ive been reading that its not really necessary unless your running a high performance motor which i wouldnt say my engine is...slightly modded but no where near high performance

head gasket- do i just run a stock head gasket or is there much gain from the mopar performance gasket aside from slightly higher CR which would mean a bit more power obviously but what else would i need to do if i went the route of performance gasket

cam shaft bushings- aside from checking checking the camshaft if there any way to check the bushings/bearings

thats all i can think of at the moment, but feel free to post up any other surprises i might come across

BTW im running COMP CAMS SK68-232-4, and mopar performance spring,retainers and keepers

other engine mods-pace setter header 2.5" to the tailpipe, CAI ford 19lbs injectors

and its an [RENIX] 89 4.0L

thanks again

 

[gradon]

Get a fel-pro 26211PT head gasket, which should be .040-.044" compressed(as compared to the stock .051")
I would install new cam bearings with a new cam. . .

 

[old_man]

What lifters?

Don't forget the ZDDP or you will regret it.

 

[mud-dog27]

the lifters are from COMP CAMS

the SK68-232-4 kit includes cam,lifters, timing set(chain and gears)

and whats ZDDP?

 

[DanMan2k06]

An oil additive. Zinc, essentially. Different brands have different amounts. Google or search for it and you will get more threads than you'll ever want to read.

 

[mud-dog27]

oh yea, im going to see if the local MOPAC has the comp cams additive but if not i may go with the royal purple, would have ordered it with the cam but stupid border wont let it through

 

[old_man]

Run ZDDP no matter what oil you use.

 

[Talyn]

Just visually inspect the bearings. You will be able to tell if they are damaged.

The Victor Reinz 54249S Head gasket is a MLS and is .044" compressed. I have found them at Carquest and Rockauto. Leave off the 'S' for part number 54249 when searching.

Do you have a manual of some sort? The head bolts get torques in specific increments in and a specific pattern. Don't forget some sealant on the #11, above the water pump.

 

[DieselSJ]

Valvoline racing (black bottle) + zddp is what was recommended to us by our cam grinder (Clay Smith) when we broke in the new cam on the racer. They said the black bottle Valvoline has higher zddp. For zddp, go to your local GM/Chevy dealer and see if they stock their Engine Oil Supplement or EOS.