Master the Art of LS Camshaft Degreed: Essential Tips and Tricks

The LS engine platform is renowned for its power and adaptability, and a key factor in maximizing its performance is proper camshaft timing. Knowing how to degree an LS camshaft is essential for any enthusiast looking to extract the most from their engine. This guide will take you through the process step by step, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to achieve optimal camshaft timing.

The Importance of Cam Timing

Before diving into the specifics, let’s understand why camshaft timing is so crucial. The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves, dictating when the engine receives air and expels exhaust gases. Precise timing ensures optimal valve overlap, which affects factors like:

• Power and Torque: Proper valve timing allows for efficient intake and exhaust flow, maximizing power and torque throughout the engine’s operating range.
• Fuel Efficiency: Optimized valve overlap contributes to efficient combustion, leading to better fuel economy.
• Emissions: Well-timed valves help ensure complete combustion, reducing harmful emissions.
• Engine Smoothness: Precise valve timing contributes to a smoother running engine by minimizing valve clash and maximizing efficiency.

Tools of the Trade: What You’ll Need

To degree an LS camshaft, you’ll need the following tools:

• Timing Tools: A dedicated LS camshaft timing toolset is essential. These kits typically include a degree wheel, a dial indicator, a magnetic base, and a set of valve lash adjusters.
• Torque Wrench: A torque wrench is necessary for tightening bolts and fasteners to the correct specifications.
• Socket Set: A comprehensive socket set will be helpful for removing and installing various fasteners.
• Wrenches: A set of wrenches will be needed for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts.
• Camshaft Degreeing Software: While not strictly necessary, software like LS1 Edit or similar programs can aid in calculating and verifying camshaft timing.
• Service Manual: A detailed service manual for your specific engine model is invaluable for referencing torque specifications and other procedures.

Getting Started: Preparation and Disassembly

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is cold and disconnect the battery before starting any work.
2. Remove the Valve Covers: Remove the valve covers to access the camshaft and rocker arms.
3. Remove the Timing Chain: Remove the timing chain by loosening the timing chain tensioner and removing the timing chain guides.
4. Remove the Camshaft: Remove the camshaft from the cylinder heads after removing the rocker arms and lifters.

The Degreeing Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Install the Degree Wheel: Mount the degree wheel securely on the crankshaft snout. Ensure it’s aligned with the timing marks on the crankshaft.
2. Rotate the Crankshaft: Rotate the crankshaft until the number one piston is at top dead center (TDC) on the compression stroke. This is typically marked on the degree wheel as 0 degrees.
3. Install the Camshaft: Install the new camshaft, ensuring the timing marks on the camshaft align with the corresponding marks on the cylinder heads.
4. Set the Valve Lash: Set the valve lash according to the manufacturer’s specifications using the valve lash adjusters from your timing toolset.
5. Measure the Camshaft Timing: Using the dial indicator mounted to the magnetic base, measure the lift of each valve at specific crankshaft positions. This will determine the camshaft’s intake and exhaust opening and closing points.
6. Adjust the Camshaft Timing: If necessary, adjust the camshaft’s position by rotating it slightly until the desired valve timing is achieved.
7. Verify Timing: Repeat the measurement process to ensure the camshaft timing is accurate and consistent.

Reassembly and Final Touches

1. Install the Timing Chain: Reinstall the timing chain, ensuring it’s properly tensioned.
2. Install the Valve Covers: Install the valve covers and tighten them to the specified torque.
3. Connect the Battery: Reconnect the battery.
4. Start the Engine: Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
5. Check for Leaks: Inspect the engine for any leaks and address them as needed.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Considerations

• Camshaft Selection: Choosing the right camshaft for your application is crucial. Consider factors like engine size, compression ratio, intended use, and desired powerband.
• Valve Spring Selection: Ensure you use valve springs that are compatible with the new camshaft and can handle the increased valve lift and spring pressure.
• Engine Management System: Adjust the engine management system to accommodate the new camshaft timing. This may involve recalibrating the fuel injection system, ignition timing, and other parameters.

The Final Stretch: A Successful Degreeing

Correctly degreed LS camshaft timing is the key to unlocking the full potential of your engine. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve optimal valve timing, resulting in increased power, improved efficiency, and a more enjoyable driving experience.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: What are the benefits of degreed camshaft timing?

A: Degreed camshaft timing optimizes valve timing for peak performance, resulting in increased horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency.

Q: Can I degree a camshaft without specialized tools?

A: While possible, it’s highly recommended to use a dedicated LS camshaft timing toolset for accurate and reliable results.

Q: How often should I degree my camshaft?

A: Ideally, you should degree your camshaft whenever you replace or adjust it. However, if you’re not experiencing any performance issues, it’s not strictly necessary to degree it regularly.

Q: Is it possible to degree a camshaft without removing the engine?

A: Yes, it’s possible to degree a camshaft without removing the engine, but it requires more specialized tools and experience.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when degreed camshaft timing?

A: Common mistakes include incorrect valve lash settings, inaccurate crankshaft positioning, and improper timing chain tensioning.