RV8 camshaft timing check for TVR 4.0

[geeman237]

I am installing a new Kent Cams TVR Griffith 4.0 camshaft from a reputable TVR supplier. The camshaft timing gear wheel/sprocket is adjustable. Anyone else fitted one of these and timed it themselves? I have no idea if its supplied pre-set up for initial install to this application or if I have to start from scratch.

So far I have fitted the camshaft, then I fitted the sprockets and chain together with the dots lined up to each other. However, now I am checking the camshaft timing, it seems its way out. I have found true TDC on the crankshaft. I have also seen several YouTube videos (almost all US V8 engines) on how to degree a camshaft. Also looked at the RPI Engineering website and followed their timing steps. The Kent Cam came with a one page install guide, but its a bit scant on detail for me (first time doing this).

From the chart on the guide for the TVR 4.0 it lists the specs as follows.

Cam lift : Inlet/Ex 0.265"
Duration : Inlet 272*, Ex 278* (durations quoted at 0.004")
Timing Figures : Inlet 24/68, Ex 71/27
Inlet/Exhaust @ full lift : 112*

Re-reading the Kent cams info, it seems you fit the camshaft, but NO sprockets. Set up the crankshaft and camshaft to the specs, THEN install the sprockets and chain. Is this correct? Then fine tune with the adjustable cam sprocket. Should I use the dots at all?

Should the inlet on #1 cylinder be at max lift (0.265") at 112* AFTER TDC?

I was reading stuff like this, http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/0105sc-degreeing-... and trying to get the 112* number as the lobe centreline....?????

Some advice appreciated.
Thanks

[paintman]

Can't really help as I've only fitted normal timing gears to the RV8.

A quick read of the Kent cams website 'Support' section says:
"If you are in any doubt on any camshaft related subject whether it be cam timing, valve to piston clearence or oil pressure do not attempt to start your engine call us first - we don't bite."

In the absence of any other advice - perhaps a TVR dedicated website? - giving them a call is likely to be your best bet.

[Belle427]

Cant see how you can fit and time the cam with no sprockets on it.
I used the method below which seemed to work ok, although I couldn’t quite get my head around some of it !
A bit daunting at first but once you get going it’s pretty straightforward.
V8 developments gave me one number only to use which was 109 degrees
I got to within 1 degree of it but would have needed an expensive vernier timing set to get it spot on.
Car performs well and made good numbers on the rollers so I was pretty happy with it.
http://www.v8developments.co.uk/technical/camshaft...

Edited by Belle427 on Sunday 24th February 08:13

[stevieturbo]

Of course the gears and chain must be fitted before you can dial in the cam.

The gears should have the regular dot to dot markings ( or 0 deg ) as a baseline to start from. Then you have the adjustability to dial the cam in to recommended (or other ) specs as required.