I am installing a Compcams number 51-233-4 camshaft into a 428. It seems to require a quarter inch shim behind the canshaft to properly aligh endplay. Where do we get these shims or spacer?
Thank you in advance, Keith

I am installing a Compcams number 51-233-4 camshaft into a 428. It seems to require a quarter inch shim behind the canshaft to properly aligh endplay. Where do we get these shims or spacer?
Thank you in advance, Keith

There is no rear shim.
The cam is located with the front cam plate and eccentric.
The rear freeze plug may not be knocked in far enough. But, you don't want it too close to the cam.

You should be OK. Remember, this isn't a chevy small block. The cam thrust plate bolts to block after cam is installed. Then install cam gear AND fuel pump eccentric. The thrust plate, gear and eccentric locate the cam. All the parts must be installed before camshaft enplay can be checked.

good luck

robertg

Simds Performance(do a search in race parts) has a roller bearing thrust plate that limits front and rear thrust.Got one on my new 455.

Fat finger syndrome-Sims performance

I installed the cam retainer, timing gear and fuel pump accenteric. The cam just went back a quarter inch too much. Should I install the thrust plate from sims? Or would it have a tendency to move to the forward position due to the distributor gear? I hate to ask these stupid questions, but I have not seen this much play in cam installation. Also, this is my first assembly of a Pontiac engine. Just want to make sure things go right the first time. I asked the question by email to Comp Cams, but no answer yet. Their phone is very busy.
Thank you all for your help, Keith

Keith if you have all the parts on and it moves back a quarter inch than you dont have the fuel pump eccentric on correctly!! You must line the tab on the eccentric up with the key slot in the cam gear so the cam literly pulls through the eccentric to the washer and bolt.When installed correctly the cam should only move back and fourth a few thousandth. I can bet you dont have it lined up right and the cam isent pulling through the eccentric. I hope this helps you out.

Tiacguy...Your were right. Just did not have that little stinker installed right. I can't belive I fell for that joke. I got the key tab in the slot, but did not have the accenteric lined up so the cam could go through the hole. Thank you all so very much for your help. The build now moves forward.
Thanks again, Keith

Not really any of my business, but since this is your first Pontiac engine, do you have a shop manual or some such reference? A Pontiac shop manual for any year V8 ('55-'??) would be invaluable to you.

I have several Pontiac engines, just the first one I have built. I do have shop manuals. I also now remember reading about the issue a few years ago on this forum site. Just getting old. Can't remember much, so have to take things real slow and re-check everything.
Happy Day, Keith