Can I change the camshaft in my small block chevy 350 without changing the cam bearings? The motor is appears fairly fresh.
I know that there is no way to plasti-gauge the bearings, but do you really want to take that chance? Removal of the old bearings and installing the new ones will take about an hour with the correct tool. Isn't that time well spent to protect your investment? I have put a cam in with out replacing the bearings, but I was selling the car and was trying to cut costs, my bad. It's your decision.
yeah if they are not scored or pitted or damaged in anyway.
if i was you i would replace the bearings if your cams are worn already its only gonna do they same thing in time.im having the same problem with my mazda waited to fix now i have to replace both heads
Risky but it's your cam shaft. Bearings and lifters are usually replaced with the camshaft. But then again years ago people would lay a strip of leather between bearings to take up any play. I wouldn't try that either today.
