PERFORMER RPM HYDRAULIC CAMSHAFT AND LIFTER KIT
For 396-502 C.I.D. Big Block Chevrolet V8
Catalog #7162
®
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
PLEASE study these instructions carefully before beginning this installation. Most installations can be accomplished with common tools and
procedures. However, you should be familiar with and comfortable working on your vehicle. If you do not feel comfortable performing this installation,
it is recommended to have the installation completed by a qualified mechanic. If you have any questions, please call our
Technical Hotline at: 1-800-416-8628, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm, Pacific Standard Time, Monday through Friday or e-mail us at
[email protected].
IMPORTANT NOTE: Proper installation is the responsibility of the installer.
Improper installation may result in poor performance and engine or vehicle damage.
DESCRIPTION: Edelbrock Performer RPM camshafts are ground specifically for use with the corresponding Performer RPM manifold. The Performer
RPM manifold #7161 (for oval port heads) or #7163 (for rectangular port heads), and Performer RPM camshaft #7162 are designed to work as a team
to give you better driveability and performance. They are dyno-matched and street-proven. For best results, use the Edelbrock manifold/camshaft
package with the recommended carburetor and headers. Performer RPM camshafts are designed for use with modified or high performance cylinder
heads and valve train components only. Screw-in studs, adjustable rocker arms, and matching valve springs must be used.
NOTE: Valve spring set #5762 must be used (when using stock cylinder heads) to retain any warranty on your camshaft. Please note that
these springs will not fit over the stock-style umbrella valve seals. Conversion to Perfect Circle or equivalent valve stem seals is required.
IMPORTANT: This instruction sheet provides general installation guidelines which can affect your warranty. Read it carefully. It is not our
intent to cover each detail of installation here; a step-by-step procedure manual would be far too lengthy. We want to caution you that
installing a camshaft is a complicated procedure that requires a good general knowledge of automotive engines. If you are not confident
that you can complete the camshaft installation successfully, we suggest you consider having it installed by a qualified mechanic. Improper
installation will result in LOW MILEAGE, POOR PERFORMANCE, COSTLY REINSTALLATION, and ENGINE DAMAGE.
TO AVOID THESE PROBLEMS, YOU MUST DO THE FOLLOWING:
1. Carefully study and understand all instructions.
2. Examine the camshaft for possible shipping damage (if damaged contact your dealer immediately).
KIT CONTENTS:
1 Camshaft
16 Hi-Rev Hydraulic Lifters
1 Assembly Lube
PREPARATION CHECKLIST
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT FOR INSTALLATION:
Box and open end wrenches
Socket set
Distributor wrench
Pliers (channel locks & hose clamp)
Screw drivers (regular and phillips)
Torque wrench
Hammer
Gasket scraper or putty knife
Timing light & vacuum gauge
Rags
Water bucket
Harmonic balancer puller
Gear puller for crankshaft sprocket
Chalk , paper and pencil
Masking tape (for tagging hoses and electrical wires)
HARDWARE AND PARTS REQUIRED:
Gaskets - Edelbrock #7201, OEM or equivalent
Pipe plugs, if needed
Edelbrock Gasgacinch #9300
RTV Silicone sealer
Engine oil and filter
Catalog #7162
Rev. 7/06 - RS/mc
Radiator coolant
Edelbrock Performer-Link True Rolling Timing Chain & Gear Set
#7800
Front cover oil seal, OEM or equivalent
Valve Springs #5762
Page 1 of 4
©2006 Edelbrock Corporation
Brochure #63-0485
IMPORTANT NOTES AFFECTING YOUR WARRANTY. PLEASE READ BEFORE CONTINUING THIS INSTALLATION!
CAM LOBE DAMAGE: Cam lobe wear is almost non-existent unless
mismatched parts are used or installation of the cam and lifters is done
improperly. Cam damage can result from the timing gear loosening due
to improper torque on bolts. Bolts holding gear to camshaft should be
torqued carefully and a locking compound applied to threads of bolts.
Before installing your new Performer- RPM camshaft, check the gear
drive on the distributor and oil pump for any signs of wear. If worn, be
sure to replace with a new gear or you may wear out your camshaft
prematurely. High-pressure oil pumps are not recommended with
Performer RPM camshafts. Edelbrock camshafts are designed to be
used with Edelbrock timing chains.
O.E.M. or aftermarket long-slot rocker arms or roller rockers are
necessary to prevent binding on the rocker stud at full lift. After the cam
is installed and timed correctly (See Fig. 2), it will be necessary to
check each pushrod for correct lifter preload.
VALVE SPRINGS (CAUTION REGARDING YOUR WARRANTY): In
order for this Performer RPM cam and lifter kit to be covered under ANY
WARRANTY, you MUST use the correct Edelbrock Sure Seat Valve
Springs or equivalent. Failure to install new Edelbrock valve springs or
equivalent with your new Performer RPM cam could cause the cam
lobes to wear excessively and could cause additional engine damage.
CAM GEARS AND CAMSHAFT END PLAY: If cam gear becomes
loose, the cam will slide back in the block, causing the lifters to hit the
lobes next to them and also the cam bearing journals. If the engine is
run after this happens, the bottom of the lifters and the sides of the lobes
will become damaged. See Installation Instructions section for end play
specifications.
1.
OPERATING CLEARANCES: When installing a camshaft, it is always
important to check for proper operating clearances, especially when
high performance components are used. Things to look for that can
cause failure and damaged parts are as follows:
This camshaft is designed to function with Edelbrock Sure Seat
valve springs #5762. Do not use other dual valve springs with
this camshaft. Aftermarket retainers may be necessary with
your installation for proper spring height. Do not use rotator
type valve springs or retainers for this application.
LIFTERS: New lifters must be used with new camshaft. Use only the
high rev lifters supplied with this kit.. When installing the lifters make
sure to coat the bottom of each lifter with the supplied MoS2 assembly
lube and use fresh, clean oil on the lifter bore just prior to installing. After
assembly, make sure that all lifters fit freely in the lifter bores
TIMING CHAIN: Use Edelbrock Performer-Plus Timing Chain and Gear
Set #7810 or Accu-Drive gear drive #7891 ONLY. Do not use late model
timing chain and gear sets that are designed for emission-controlled
engines. These timing sets are machined in a retarded position and are
not recommended for this camshaft installation. Edelbrock Timing Sets
feature three keyways for specific timing selection.
1.
Improper valve-to-piston clearance (this should be no less than
0.080").
2.
Rocker arm stud slot clearance (both ends; valve closed and
open).
NOTE: We recommend the use of roller rockers.
3.
PUSHRODS AND ROCKER ARMS: High performance pushrods and
adjustable rocker arms and studs are recommended for this installation.
Proper spring settings (see dimensions with spring instruction
sheet). Correct dimensions mean maximum performance and
longer engine life.
REMOVAL OF ENGINE PARTS BEFORE CAMSHAFT INSTALLATION
(Be sure to keep all parts in order)
WARNING! DO NOT REMOVE RADIATOR CAP OR RADIATOR HOSES WHILE ENGINE IS HOT!
IMPORTANT NOTICE: If the air conditioning condenser needs to be removed to provide clearance for camshaft removal, have the system
evacuated by an appropriate repair facility BEFORE starting the installation. The facility can recharge the system after installation.
1.
Disconnect the battery.
6.
2.
Drain radiator coolant. Drain plug will normally be located on lower
right or left side of the radiator facing the engine.
Disconnect all linkage from carburetor such as throttle, throttle
springs, transmission, cruise control and automatic choke.
7.
Tag and remove coil wires and sensor wires.
8.
Tag and remove vacuum lines.
9.
Remove valve covers.
3.
Move fan shroud back and remove fan and spacer from water
pump. On air conditioned vehicles, remove bolt, lower idler pulley
and compressor-to- water pump mount. Disconnect hoses and
brackets. Most vehicles will require radiator removal prior to cam
removal. Remove water pump.
4.
Remove radiator and air conditioning condenser if so equipped. In
some cases, the front grille may have to be removed. Measure
distance from front cover to grille or brackets that may interfere
with camshaft against the length of the camshaft.
10. Remove distributor cap and wires, rotate engine until rotor points
towards number 1 terminal in cap and pointer on front cover is on
top dead center (TDC) and remove distributor (See Fig. 1). Make
a note of the approximate position of the distributor housing in
relation to the manifold to assist in getting the distributor properly
located during re-installation.
5.
Remove the gas cap to relieve pressure. Disconnect fuel line and
plug the line. Replace gas cap.
11. Remove carburetor and intake manifold assembly. Remove and
discard intake manifold gasket.
Catalog #7162
Rev. 7/06 - RS/mc
Page 2 of 4
©2006 Edelbrock Corporation
Brochure #63-0485
12. Remove rocker arms and pushrods.
16. Remove fuel pump and fuel pump pushrod (vehicles with
mechanical fuel pumps only).
13. Remove hydraulic valve lifters.
14. Remove crankshaft pulley, and using a suitable puller, remove
crankshaft dampener (harmonic balancer).
15. Loosen oil pan and remove front cover.
17. Rotate engine until timing marks are aligned (See Fig. 2).
18. Remove bolts retaining camshaft sprocket. Remove sprocket and
chain.
19. Remove camshaft thrust plate and camshaft.
NOTE: The front cover oil seal should be replaced before the front
cover is re-installed.
20. Using appropriate gear puller, remove crankshaft sprocket.
INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
1.
2.
Check lifters as covered in lifter section. Coat cam lobes and
distributor drive gear of cam with assembly lube (supplied).
Install new camshaft with new sprockets and timing chain. Torque
timing chain sprocket to factory specification listed in Motors or
other repair manual.
NOTE: Check camshaft end-play, and maintain end-play clearance
between .005" and .010".
CAUTION: When using Performer-Link True Rolling Timing Chain
and Gear Set (#7810) or Accu-Drive gear drive set (#7891) with an
Edelbrock camshaft, straight up timing alignment is achieved. If
any other timing gear set is used, it is necessary to check camshaft
position for correct timing alignment. This requires indexing the
camshaft with a degree wheel to verify timing alignment. O.E.M. or
non-Edelbrock timing gear sets are not recommended for use with
Edelbrock camshafts. Use locking compound material on bolt
threads holding gear to cam. Torque to factory specification listed
in Motors or other repair manual.
3.
6.
Install front timing cover and oil pan.
NOTE: Install new seal between oil pan and front cover if old seal
is damaged after removal. Use RTV silicone sealant on seal to
ensure proper seal to pan.
7.
Torque front timing cover bolts to 6-7 ft. lbs.
8.
Install front harmonic balancer and torque to 60 ft.-lbs.
9.
Install fuel pump and pushrod.
10. Install water pump using new gaskets and torque to 30 ft.-lbs.
11. Install intake manifold/carburetor assembly using new intake
gasket set and torque bolts to 25 ft/lbs (except for the four bolts
between each pair of intake runners, which only get snugged handtight with a short box-end wrench).
12. DISTRIBUTOR INSTALLATION & ENGINE TIMING
NOTE: Before installing your distributor, check the gear drive on
the distributor and oil pump for any signs of wear. If worn, be sure
to replace with new or you may wear out your camshaft
prematurely. This is especially true when rebuilding your engine
and a high performance oil system is used, which generates a
heavier load on the camshaft gear system. Edelbrock camshafts
are designed to use OEM-type gears only.
Coat the bottom of each lifter with the supplied assembly lube and
install each lifter using fresh clean oil on the lifter bore just prior to
installing. Check to make sure all lifters rotate freely in lifter bores.
NOTE: DO NOT soak lifters in oil, or “pump up” lifters prior to
installation. This will result in improper lifter preload.
4.
Line up camshaft with timing marks aligned (See Fig. 2).
5.
VALVE ADJUSTMENT:
A.
B.
C.
Install pushrods with lube on both ends, making sure the
pushrod tip hits the center of the lifter cup. Install rocker
arms, but do not tighten the adjusting nuts. You are now
ready to start valve adjustment.
Turn the engine over until the No. 1 cylinder is at TDC firing
position (Both #1 lifters are down in the lifter bores and
cylinder #6 are up). At this point, adjust exhaust valves on
cylinder numbers 1, 3, 4, 8 and intake valves on cylinder
numbers 1, 2, 5, 7 to zero clearance between rocker arm
and valve tip. This is “zero lash”. While tightening the
adjusting nut, spin the pushrod between your thumb and
forefinger. When you feel resistance, you are at zero lash.
From this point, turn adjusting nut down (clock-wise) 1/4
turn more for final adjustment.
Turn the engine over one full turn, until #6 cylinder is at TDC
firing position, and adjust the exhaust valves on cylinder
numbers 2, 5, 6, 7 and the intake valves on cylinders 3, 4,
6, 8 as described in step “B”. The valves are now adjusted.
Catalog #7162
Rev. 7/06 - RS/mc
A.
Turn the engine over in direction of rotation until the No. 1
intake valve closes and continue until the pointer on the
front cover is approximately five degrees (5°) before top
dead center (BTDC) (See Fig. 1 for firing order).
B.
Re-install the distributor with the rotor pointing towards No.
1 terminal in the cap, and with the distributor housing in its
original position. If distributor will not drop down all the way
to the flange on the manifold, it will be necessary to align
the distributor shaft with the oil pump drive. Slowly rotate
the engine until the distributor drops down against the
manifold, then continue turning until two complete
revolutions are completed and the timing marks once again
come to five degrees BTDC.
C.
Lightly tighten the hold-down clamp so that the distributor
can still be turned to determine final setting using a timing
light with the engine running.
13. Replace valve covers, carburetor linkage and remaining vacuum
and electrical connections.
14. Re-install air conditioner, if so equipped.
Page 3 of 4
©2006 Edelbrock Corporation
Brochure #63-0485
NOTE: The best combination for any particular vehicle or
application must be determined by trial and error using the
above information as a guideline.
15. Refill radiator with coolant and re-connect battery.
16. Double check all connections, fuel lines, etc., before starting engine.
17. Engine oil and filter should be changed before start-up.
•
HEADERS: For best performance, headers are recommended.
For this application, primary tube diameter should be 1-7/8”,
approximately 31” long, and terminating into a 3-1/2” collector.
The remainder of the exhaust system should consist of dual
exhaust and tail pipes, at least 2-1/4” in diameter, with freeflowing mufflers. These recommendations may vary depending
on your specific application.
•
WARNING: In order for this Performer RPM cam and lifter kit
to be covered under ANY WARRANTY, you MUST use the correct
Edelbrock Sure Seat Valve Springs. The end flap or label from
your Sure Seat Valve Spring box must be sent in with your
camshaft warranty card. Failure to install new Edelbrock Sure
Seat Valve Springs with your new Performer RPM cam and lifter
kit could cause the cam lobes to wear excessively and could
cause additional engine damage. IF YOU HAVE ANY
QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS APPLICATION, PLEASE CONTACT
OUR TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT IMMEDIATELY.
18. CAMSHAFT & LIFTER RUN-IN:
A.
Start the engine and bring immediately to break-in rpm.
Vary engine rpm between 2000 and 2500 rpm during the
entire break in period.
CAUTION: Change engine oil and filter before start-up. Do
not allow the engine to run under 2000 rpm for the first 1/2
hour. Slow idle speeds may result in severe cam and lifter
wear.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: With the Edelbrock manifold and
camshaft package installation, a carburetor jet change and ignition
timing changes may be required for best performance. Due to the varied
applications of years and models of vehicles, no one combination could
suffice for all installations. The following procedures are only a guideline.
•
IGNITION TIMING: Increase initial setting to 10-14° BTDC
(Before Top Dead Center). Total advance not to exceed 32-34°.
With initial and centrifugal weights combined timing should be
at full advance by 4000-4500 rpm. After timing is adjusted, reconnect the vacuum advance line.
Timing
Marks
Figure 1 - 396-454 C.I.D. Chevrolet V8
Firing Order and Timing Marks
Firing Order: 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2
Turn distributor counter clockwise to advance timing
Figure 2 - Timing Chain Sprocket Alignment
Edelbrock Corporation • 2700 California St. • Torrance, CA 90503
Tech-Line: 1-800-416-8628 • E-Mail: [email protected]
Catalog #7162
Rev. 7/06 - RS/mc
Page 4 of 4
©2006 Edelbrock Corporation
Brochure #63-0485
WARNING:
In addition to the break-in procedure described in the main
installation instructions, you must use Edelbrock break-in oil PN 1070 or
equivalent. If using your own engine oil, use Edelbrock Zinc Additive
PN 1074 or equivalent. Failure to use proper engine break-in oil or zinc
additive can permanently damage the new camshaft and void manufacture
warranty. Engine break-in oil and zinc additive is NOT included with this
camshaft and must be purchased separately.
PN 1070
PN 1074
Edelbrock LLC • 2700 California Street • Torrance, CA 90503
Tech Line: 1-800-416-8628
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