Renamed: Camshaft identification help???

[photopark]

S38b35.

[Rich Euro M5]

Graham,

The reason some run split cam timing is to improve exhaust scavanging. The same thing to a lesser effect can be done by changing the gear on the exhaust cam. Most people install the S14 EVO gear, because it's much easier and less expensive than swapping out a camshaft. So if you have one S38B35 cam, you could install a S38B36 cam on the exhaust side and you'd be running the 248/264 combo.

Rich

[gcracker]

Now I see why you are worried about the valve adjustment. Just thought you should know that adjusting the valves only requires a tappet depressing tool, a set of feeler gauges, maybe a micrometer, and a magnet. You absolutely do not need to pull the head at all, so don't worry about that. It does not matter which cam you use, it is likely that you will need to change the clearance of at least one valve because the cam may have worn a tiny tiny bit different from your original. It is nothing to worry about. Shims cost $4 from International Auto Parts (Fiat shims.) It takes about two hours for me to clean everything and adjust all the valves.

I was mostly worried about the adjustment thinking that I had a smaller base circle, and putting the larger one on would mean my valves might not be closed... and my pistons already climb higher than OEM. I tend to worry overmuch about this car.

I have learned that when given two choices, worrying more keeps engines in one piece. If you recall my greeting post, I almost didn't do this rebuild when I did and I would've been driving with no crank nut!

[gcracker]

S38b35.

Indeed! That clears that up!

[gcracker]

Graham,

The reason some run split cam timing is to improve exhaust scavanging. The same thing to a lesser effect can be done by changing the gear on the exhaust cam. Most people install the S14 EVO gear, because it's much easier and less expensive than swapping out a camshaft. So if you have one S38B35 cam, you could install a S38B36 cam on the exhaust side and you'd be running the 248/264 combo.

Rich

Back when I began this project, I purchased that gear along with a Dinan Gen I chip from either Todd Kenyon or Andrew Elmore... I can't remember.
I did install it in this rebuild, but am not sure if I'll keep it for long.
I am seriously considering running the b36 cam, since I need one anyway, but $500 for one, ouch.

I still have this nagging concern: Why are some cams full-width on the lobe and others are half or less and assymmetrical?
I need to have Leo measure these cams and put an end to all this confusion. I'm sure he can tell me all the specs.

[gcracker]

Here is proof that my cam is a standard duration U.S. Camshaft.