Cam Install Question

Brax Sisco xenex@chpl.net
Sat, 6 Apr 2002 23:35:28 -0600


Now that I've got my valve cover powdercoated, and the gaskets ordered,
I plan on installing this '91 cam I got from Jay Whitely pretty soon.
I've read all the archives, got a cam install packet from SmoothDaddyFig
on the sr20de forums, and feel >relatively< confident that I can do
this.

But - In reading over the torque specs in the Haynes manual, I notice
that the torque specs on both the valve cover bolts and the cam cap
bolts are in the low inch-pounds.  I have two torque wrenchs, but the
in-lb one starts at 120, and the ft-lb one at 10 ft-lb (same thing, I
know).  It seems most of these bolts are to be 4-5 ft-lbs max.  That's
almost little more than finger-tight, isn't it?

Do you who have done this just go by "feel" or should I maybe be looking
for a lower "power" torque wrench?  I'm decent with a wrench, done
brakes, just installed short shifter, etc.., but never any valve train
or engine guts work.

Thanks,

Brax Sisco
'97 200sx SE-R w/ Stuff