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SBC roller cam conversion - cam buttons & timing covers

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14K views 7 replies 5 participants last post by  64nailhead  
#1 ·
I'm considering using a retrofit roller cam in my Gen 1 SBC 350, and I'm trying to make sure I know all the parts I'll need to buy. I will most likely use one of the Howard's retrofit cam kits.

I know the cam button is required with the roller conversion. I could use a nylon button with my steel timing cover, but these OEM covers are fairly flimsy, and may flex enough to let the cam move too much. Several vendors have billet aluminum covers that work better (less flex). I would probably use a two piece cover, because once its installed I don't have to mess with the seal at the oil pan.

Then the choices start to get complicated.
- Edelbrock 4242 two piece cover ($120) - good reviews, no way to measure cam play after installation
- Cloyes 9-221 quick button two piece cam cover ($140) - adjustable cam button, and all the right features, but several bad reviews indicate it may need to be machined before it fits right on the block
- Comp cams 210 two piece cover ($260)- excellent reviews, external measurement for cam play, but really pricy

Any feedback or suggestions on what works best? I don't want to spend $260 on a timing cover if there is a simpler, effective solution.

Thanks,

Bruce
 
B
#2 ·
The Cloyes is a good cover at a good price for the included complications that make installation and use a lot simpler. It has two issues that trip people up, it's a dicey fit with the short pump, and will not clear the 8 inch damper without some hand grinding. This is true for anybody's cast timing cover. People that don't read the instructions on these things will have issues.

Bogie
 
S
#3 ·
Bogie i am in the same predicament as Bruce on which cover to get,the cloyes quick button notes say that it is designed for up to a 7.5 inch damper and an 8"
will will require grinding the cover bolts for clearance, IS IT AS SIMPLE AS THAT or are there other issues that will have to be addressed? not trying to steal Bruce's post but his Q is exactly what has me confused, Scotty
 
#5 ·
http://www.hotrodders.com/forum/cam-button-clearancing-416385.html

I had many of the same questions on my 1st install, so I thought describing the procedure fully would help others.

I've done 3 of thus far with no issues using the method and parts described in the attached thread.

FWIW, I'm somewhat cheap in regardss to some things (not everything), but I used an Ebay aluminum cover that was less than $30. The cover is a heavy cast piece and THICK. Thick enough for me to tap and put in an 1/8" pipe plug. Twice I've used the torrington style bearing button and once a plastic button. All 3 are still going strong.
 
#7 ·
I believe I have a 6.25" balancer, because I recall being a little concerned that it was not an 8" when I installed the engine. I'm also using a long water pump, so that should work with these covers.

It looks like the Cloyes cover is a good value. However, I may have to machine it to give the required clearance for the main cap, and I will have to be careful about cover bolts, water pump back plate, and other items that could be a little too close. I also know I currently have a cam lock plate, and it sounds like it would have to be machined to make sure it clears the the Torrington bearing cam button. It does seem like a lot of rework just to make sure the product works.

Although using a nylon button is a cheaper choice, I haven't seen any complaints about problems or failures.

Bruce
 
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