It's a common problem
S.W. - I just installed a new cam and timing chain/gear set in my 69 350. It appears that the chain is rubbing the block at the top oil journal bump. What do I need to do? I see in the Summit catalog that they sell a "block protector kit"? Does this just go on the cam gear? What about the crank gear and the line up between the two?
This is a new Edelbrock performer cam and a Summit roller chain and gear set.
Thanks for any advice.D.B. - I will state the obvious....you don't have the cam gear mounted "backwards" do you? I think it is offset to the front when properly mounted. You should see the timing mark dimple when installed.
S.W. - Timing marks are aligned and showing, gears appeared to be lined up. I can die grind the block to clear but I am worried about the cam walk towards the block.
Thanks.B.K. - Scott,
This is a very common occurrence on the newer blocks when using a roller timing chain. Apparently, somewhere along the years, GM made the boss around the upper oil galley plug bigger than it used to be. The only cure is to get out the die grinder and grind away the boss until you have about .050 inch clearance from the chain. We have had to do this on almost every motor we have built lately with a roller type chain. It is hard to do with the motor assembled without getting metal everywhere but if you tape off most of the front of the motor and have someone hold a shop vac as close as you can while you are grinding, it can be done safely. If you have any more questions, e-mail me. By the way the "block protector" you have seen is a thin shim that goes behind the cam gear to protect the front of the block but it is not enough to solve the problem.
Archivist: Tom Wilson
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