New Lifters, Same (Old) Cam

[jd329]

I have a '73 350 that developed a lifter tap and then proceeded to blow a head gasket. I've already had the heads machined and are ready to be installed on the truck. I would like to replace all 16 lifters and leave the old cam in if possible. Does anyone have any experience doing this? I understand this isn't the "best" decision but on a tight budget I would like to do this if possible. If it is possible how should I prep the new lifters and existing cam? I assume the cam break in procedure would need to be completed, right? Thanks in advance.

 

[grumpyvette]

your chances of a successful lifter & cam lobe lapping in compatibly is a bit lower with a used cam and new lifters, but its done successfully, most of the time if you use the standard cam break-in procedure and use both a good deal of moly cam lube and a high zinc oil



you may want to read thru these threads and sub-links

viewtopic.php?f=44&t=799&p=2048&hilit=break+in+moly#p2048

viewtopic.php?f=52&t=282&p=2022&hilit=break+in+moly#p2022

viewtopic.php?f=52&t=130&p=1680&hilit=+break+moly#p1680


these links may be useful
http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/adjusting-valves.196/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...cally-tracking-down-a-valve-train-noise.6237/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/metal-in-oil.10875/#post-47688

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/cam-wear-articles-you-need-to-read.282/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...k-after-a-cam-lobe-rod-or-bearings-fail.2919/

 

[jd329]

Thanks for the advice!