Camshaft Change 85 K-10 - Tips/Tricks

[timl1978]

So I am goin to change the camshaft in my truck.  I put a fresh motor in the truck 2 years ago.  The motor was originally built for a car with a 4 speed.  Needless to say with the auto trans and heavy truck it's not the ideal cam.  I ended up going with a CompCams Xtreme Energy 12-230-2.  Nicer idle with good low end torque.

Anyway I am going to leave the motor in truck to change the cam.  I have done this before but not in a K10.  Do any of you have any tips or tricks to make my life easier?  I'm thinking the radiator will have to come out by the looks...I believe it's still easiest to leave the motor in...right?

[1979C20]

Honestly, I think it would be easier in the truck, but it also wouldn't be TOO hard to pull the motor. Ive got engine pulling down to about an hour of work.

[screamin86]

Leave engine in these trucks have plenty of room to work with as far as cam swaps.rad winn need to come out and if it was a a/c truck maybe the parts for that.

[timl1978]

Appreciate the feedback fellas!~

[beastie_3]

Yes the radiator needs to come out. If I were to swap cams, I would personally remove the engine because it will be much easier to clean the gasket surfaces of the timing cover and oil pan. I think the extra work to take the engine out will be worth a leak free engine. Plus you can clean up and paint the block again, change motor mounts if need be, and clean up the frame a little.

[timl1978]

Yes the radiator needs to come out. If I were to swap cams, I would personally remove the engine because it will be much easier to clean the gasket surfaces of the timing cover and oil pan. I think the extra work to take the engine out will be worth a leak free engine. Plus you can clean up and paint the block again, change motor mounts if need be, and clean up the frame a little.

Good points...I have some pondering to do...

[slammed79]

And since these motors come out so easy, I'd pull it as well.