When to replace the cam?

[Matty Boy]

Hi,

Just a quicky - my wedge has now done just under 70,000 miles. The history file is huge but I can't see anything about a cam replacemnt. It runs and starts fine, bit of tappet noise but the performance is still very good for a stock car. How can I tell if it needs doing without fannying around? Are there some clear tell tale signs?

Matt

[wedg1e]

Could do a compression test: one cylinder significantly different could be a a clue - BUT other things can cause that too!

It's fairly straightforward to lift the inlet manifold and check (physically measure, even) the cam lobes - just need a new inlet manifold gasket when you put it back together.

[brummiewedge]

If it is severely worn it will misfire at the top end.

[v8 racing]

in all honesty if you are happy with the performance leave it alone, if you feel like you have a few spare quid and fancy some more power fit a new cam!