Here is my story. I currently am using an XE cam. It took a little while to get the engine started due to ignition and fuel supply problems. After I get the thing started I ran it at 2500 RPM for 20 minutes. Jeezzz open headers are sure loud
) Even with all the cranking that was done (probably at least a solid minute total) the cam was perfectly fine. The secret is to prime the oil system, use good lube on the lobes, and run the engine at high enough RPM for the first 20 minutes or so. This is my second engine to use an XE cam in and neither had any problems. Not to say there isn't a problem. Perhaps when they case harden these things they just aren't going long enough.