Snap ring at the back of the cam Quick question: What is the function of the snap ring at the back of the cam? The reason I ask is that the shop that rebuilt my engine forgot to install it. I had this done 2 years ago when I started restoring the car. It was the first thing that I did. Anyway, I noticed it in a box with the original exhaust manifold bolts. So, I took out the rear freeze plug and, sure enough, no snap ring was installed. Now for the bad news.... 1. the shop is not longer in business, and, 2. I scratched the f'ing cam bearing while taking out the freeze plug. Stupid me, instead of poking a hole in the middle of the plug, I did it at an edge. Pisses me off to no end! I was getting ready to mate the engine and tranny tomorrow evening. Now, if this were a disposable engine (i.e., SBC), I wouldn't have a problem tearing it down and doing the work myself. But, with the price for nailhead parts, I wanted a professional to do it so it was done right. I guess I'll be tearing it down myself this time :af: If I knew ho to post a picture of the cam bearing, I would, for some of you guess to take a look at it. It may not affect anything, but I'm not going to put it together just to fry the cam on the 1st start up....Thaks for letting me rant!
Steve-This internal snap ring locates the cam-the limit to the rear. if the engine was done and the cam in place, I don't see how you could have hurt a bearing. In any case, if so, I would see about a little crocus cloth or something to polish the scratch area. Remember that cam bearings are different sizes on the nail. The cam is loaded to the 6 o'clock position and runs half engine speed....need to see a pic of damage , but I think I'd probably run it-good luck
