[RickerLP]

Hey All,
I have a 83k original mile tripower hardtop that has been sitting for the past few years and finally started to freshen it up. We pulled the engine to sort the rear main seal leak, and a few other issues. After we pulled the intake and valley pan to inspect the camshaft, we found it needs to be replaced. Question, any recommendations? I don't see any cams manufacturers with the exact specs as the 068? Melling SPC-7 seems close.
Thank you!

[b-man]

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/m...xoCziEQAvD_BwE

The SPC-7 is as close to the 068 as you’re likely to find short of a NOS 068.

Melling was the OEM supplier for Pontiac camshafts.

[RickerLP]

I haven't been able to find an 068. I would love that!

[Tom Vaught]

I may have one (Crane Blue Racer machined part). Will look.

Tom V.

[25stevem]

While your at it you should replace the valve springs because there’s toast with 83K on them as are the valve stem O-ring seals.

Crower 68404-16 are a drop in spring.

[b-man]

Originally Posted by RickerLP

I haven't been able to find an 068. I would love that!

Several years ago I found a couple NOS 068 cams here by posting in the ‘parts wanted’ sections of the classified forums. I ended up using one in my 421 and resold the other one.

[RickerLP]

Thanks for all of your input!
Tom, any luck finding yours?
A friend recommended the Butler Ram Air 068 cam and lifters, I may have to go with that.
I will definitely be replacing the valve springs!
Rick

[b-man]

To simplify the installation and be able to use a 100% factory valvetrain I’d stick with the SPC-7.

One of our PY experts Dennis Jensen plotted one out and it’s pretty much an exact match to the real deal 068:

https://forums.maxperformanceinc.com...&postcount=429

This way you’re keeping the factory pushrod length and not overtaxing the factory press in rocker studs. Once you step away from factory cams with these early engines that have some shortcomings (press in studs, lack of true pushrod guide plates) you start to open up a can of worms. Without addressing these issues you might end up unhappy with the results later on down the road.

My 2 cents.

[RickerLP]

Thank you B-Man

Here are the specs on respective cams, the Melling's and Butler are very close, no?

OEM 068
Advert 288/302
,050 212/225
Lift 410/410
LS 116

Butler 068
Advert 256/268
.050 212/225
Lift 405/405
LS 115

Melling SPC-7
Advert 285/298
.050 212/225
Lift 408/407
LS 116

[b-man]

They’re all fine and fit your needs.

[RickerLP]

THANK YOU
Still holding out hope to score a NOS, but not very likely at this point in the project.
Truly appreciate all your help and advice.

[rtp]

Nos 068 cam on ebay

[RickerLP]

I did just see that, Thank you!

Question, is an NOS cam worth that much money over an aftermarket?

[rtp]

I don't think so...unless you have to be correct

[b-man]

Get the SPC-7 and be as correct as need be for a reasonable cost.

Pair it with Hylift Johnson USA made lifters for the win!

[RickerLP]

We have a winner!
Thanks b-man, going with your advise!
SPC-7, Hylift lifters and new springs!

[Dick Boneske]

Let us know how it runs.

[RickerLP]

Absolutely!

[RickerLP]

Quick update, unfortunately (fortunately) more was needed the deeper we got into the engine. Couldn't get the valve springs off, so heads came off and were completely gone through.
I'll post pictures and give more details if anyone would like. Hopefully be up and running in a month or so.
Thanks,
Rick

[1965gp]

It may be too late but I have a Summit 2802 in my 66 (has a 65 Tri Power) and it runs fantastic. Highly suggest it. Nice idle and pretty strong power. But if you want stick this may not be the one.