We know that optimizing valve lift for your cylinder heads is the only way to maximize your engine’s performance. To do that, you had better be sure your valve lift assumptions are correct. One way to measure camshaft lift, which is directly related to duration, is to use a dial indicator and a degree wheel. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to measure camshaft lift:
Step 1: Remove the valve covers and spark plugs
Before measuring camshaft lift, you will need to access the camshaft and valves. Start by removing the valve covers from your engine to expose the valvetrain components. It is also recommended to remove the spark plugs to make rotating the engine easier.
Step 2: Install the degree wheel
Next, you will need to install a degree wheel on the crankshaft of your engine. The degree wheel will allow you to accurately measure the camshaft lift as you rotate the engine through a full cycle. Make sure the degree wheel is securely attached to the crankshaft and is properly aligned with the TDC (top dead center) mark on the engine.
Step 3: Install the dial indicator
Mount a dial indicator on a stable stand or bracket positioned to measure camshaft lift. Position the dial indicator so the plunger is in contact with a point on the lifter that will move with the cam lobe as it rotates. This will allow you to accurately measure the lift of the camshaft as it opens and closes the valves.
Step 4: Rotate the engine
Rotate the engine by hand using a breaker bar or socket wrench on the crankshaft bolt. Slowly turn the engine in the direction of rotation while watching the dial indicator. The dial indicator will move as the cam lobe pushes against the lifter, indicating the lift of the camshaft at various points in the engine’s rotation.
Step 5: Record lift measurements
As you rotate the engine through a full cycle, record the lift measurements at various degrees of rotation. This will give you a comprehensive view of the camshaft’s lift profile and allow you to determine the peak lift of the camshaft. Make sure to record the lift measurements accurately to ensure proper analysis.
Step 6: Calculate peak lift
Once you have collected lift measurements at various points in the engine’s rotation, calculate the peak lift of the camshaft. Identify the highest lift measurement recorded during the rotation and use this value as the peak lift of the camshaft. This will give you an accurate measurement of the camshaft’s maximum lift.
Conclusion
Measuring camshaft lift is an important step in determining if you have selected a cam that will take advantage of your cylinder heads. By accurately measuring camshaft lift, you can ensure that the camshaft you choose is the right fit for your engine’s speed range, compression ratio, and intended use. You can also refer to any of our cam pages to find a duration recommendation for the engine speed range you’d like to run.
