Timing chain slack

[johnnyrod]

I can move my cam and timing chain when installed in the engine if I pull it foraward by hand it moves out toward the timing cover a good 3/16 of an inch the chain is not new and what would be an acceptable amount of travel or maybe cam button I dont know. John

 

[Fathead Racing]

If you are running with a flat tappet cam that movement is acceptable/normal.

 

[dq409]

If you are running with a flat tappet cam that movement is acceptable/normal.

Like Ray said,,, this is normal.

The lifters as they ride on the cam lobes will center the cam. A cam button is an options that does help to a point though,,dq

 

[CDNpontiac409guy]

That's not a problem, John. Flat tappet cam lobes have a 2 deg taper in them, which serves two purposes:
(1)... causes the lifters to rotate ( which, if they don't, you wipe out a cam )
(2)... the force of the valve springs, through the valve train components, keeping pressure on the cam lobes, actually draws the cam into the block... away from the timing cover. The more valve spring pressure, the more force exerted. This is what makes it necessary to install a torrington bearing between the back side of the timing gear and the thrust face of the block ( as in my Stocker ).

 

[dq409]

Thanks OZ,,,,, Your wording is way better then mine

 

[johnnyrod]

Thanks again gentlemen very much appreciated John