For seasoned owners of vehicles powered by the classic Y Block Ford engine, the saying, “If you’re going to replace the camshaft, you might as well pull the engine!” is practically gospel. When I recently shared with friends my plan to swap out the original camshaft in my 292 Y Block for a performance upgrade from Isky, while keeping the engine nestled in the car, I was met with skepticism. Not about the Isky cam itself, but about attempting this task without a full engine removal. It’s well-known among Y Block aficionados that these engines utilize mushroom-style lifters. This design, where the lifter foot is significantly wider than the bore it resides in, necessitates lifter installation from beneath the engine block – a contrast to many small and big block V8s. Typically, camshaft and lifter work is straightforward with the engine out and on a stand. Simply flip the block, remove the cam, replace lifters, and install the new camshaft. Having performed this operation before, I can attest to its simplicity when done this way. However, I’ll admit, I’d never tackled a camshaft replacement on a Y Block “right side up,” with the engine still in the vehicle. Limited garage space dictated that the engine remain in place for this camshaft upgrade.
EAA-6500 FoMoCo steel lifter – the foot is much wider than the shank
Let’s delve a bit deeper into lifters, crucial components when discussing camshafts and valve train mechanics. Firstly, whenever installing a new mechanical camshaft and lifters, proper break-in is essential. This involves running the engine at around 2000 RPM for the initial 15-20 minutes. Using the correct engine oil, rich in zinc or ZDDP, is non-negotiable for this process. Secondly, and critically, always pair a new camshaft with new lifters. Never reuse old lifters with a fresh cam. Consider this image:
An unused Y Block lifter will look flat, but actually it has a distinct crown.
Just as each camshaft lobe is intentionally tapered, new lifters are manufactured with a crowned face. These design elements are crucial; they induce lifter and lobe rotation during engine operation, significantly extending their lifespan. As a camshaft and lifter set operate together in a Y Block engine, each lifter face and camshaft lobe wears in, developing unique wear patterns as they mate together. Reusing old lifters with a new camshaft can lead to rapid and premature wear on your new cam lobes.
Every Ford or Mercury service manual covering the Y Block engine includes a section on camshaft and tappet (lifter) replacement. These manuals universally recommend using clothespins or specialized door handle clips to suspend the lifters, keeping them elevated above the camshaft lobes during removal. They also typically advise removing the oil pan. To secure the lifters in my 292 during this in-car camshaft swap, I opted for a slightly different approach:
I borrowed 16 of these clips from the office in one of the drawers in the copy room!
Yep, the clips worked like a charm! (more in the video series)
While many readers might be eager to jump straight to the video series detailing this process, I want to highlight the usefulness of a homemade tool that significantly aided in both camshaft removal and installation. I crafted a handle for the camshaft using simple 3/4″ PVC pipe fittings – two short links and a T-fitting with a central drilled hole. This DIY camshaft handle provided exceptional leverage and balance, making the job considerably smoother.
The homemade camshaft handle really made the process much easier.
Adding to the toolkit, my friend Ted Eaton generously lent me a rare and invaluable set of tools used by Ford mechanics in the 50s and 60s. KR Wilson manufactured a specialized 3-piece tool set designed to facilitate lifter removal and installation through the camshaft tunnel. The video series offers glimpses of these tools in action, demonstrating their effectiveness. I plan to create a dedicated video showcasing and explaining the KR Wilson tappet tool in detail, likely using a bare Y Block for clearer visuals.
The KR Wilson tappet tool will be highlighted in a separate video very soon.
The comprehensive video series documenting this camshaft replacement is presented in four parts. Given the complexity and my filming constraints, breaking it down was essential. These videos aim to provide a clear view of the process and the nuances specific to the Y Block Ford engine. To maintain focus, details regarding the removal of peripheral components like the intake, radiator, and brackets are largely omitted, concentrating instead on the camshaft, lifters, timing gears, and valve train aspects. Part 1 covers camshaft and lifter removal. Part 2 details lifter installation and camshaft preparation. Parts 3 and 4 provide an overview of camshaft installation, timing gears, end play adjustments, camshaft degreeing, and the final reassembly. Filming while performing intricate engine work presents unique challenges, requiring consideration for viewing angles, sound quality, and lighting. Your patience while navigating these videos is greatly appreciated!
Camshaft Upgrade Part 1
[Link to Video Part 1]
Camshaft Upgrade Part 2
[Link to Video Part 2]
Note: The complete video series is archived on my YouTube channel.
Update on Y Block Nationals and Fast Fords!
On Saturday, April 24th, I had the pleasure of visiting Dragway 42 and meeting with co-owner MaryAnne Matcham. Despite her busy schedule managing the day’s drag racing events, MaryAnne graciously dedicated time to finalize details for Fast Fords. We confirmed the location and setup of the Victory Tent, discussed coffee and donut arrangements, and she ensured programs would be available upon arrival. MaryAnne’s hospitality is truly exceptional for anyone visiting Dragway 42! We greatly appreciate her efforts in ensuring everything is in order. If you plan to attend Fast Fords, on-site RV parking in the pit area is available, or hotel accommodations can be booked in nearby towns. Hotel availability is becoming limited, so early reservations are recommended.
The Hot Rod Reverend with MaryAnne Matcham at Dragway 42
I am honored to serve as chaplain for the Father’s Day weekend race and invite you to join us Sunday morning for my sermon, “Victory at the Finish Line!” Complimentary “Drag Racer’s New Testaments” will be available. These programs and New Testaments are generously printed by bpsmilford.org, a ministry partner of my church. Hope to see you there!
The Hot Rod Reverend
aka Daniel Jessup
