The engine in question is a late model 250 with standard type bearings, no shims like the older engines.
Check the lifters, but if you have already pulled them and not labeled or numbered them, then a new cam and lifter set is required. Get a generic factory replacement, Mellings would be my choice. If you go this route, you will need a new timing set and possibly a camshaft retainer plate if you don't want to mess with the old one. You will need some break-in oil, camshaft break-in grease to coat the lobes, and new valve springs probably wouldn't hurt. The engine will require a full 20 minute break-in run. Even though the cam has easy rise lobes and little lift, there will be some risk of lobe failure due to cam or lifter fail, it's part of the risk of flat tappet cams. I would really try to keep each lifter marked and use the factory cam if possible. Measure each lobe lift and check each lifter face, use a dial indicator and run each lifter under the indicator to check for a .002" to .003" crown on the lifter face. Even if you purchase new lifters, they also need checked, quality control is not where it should be at any of the manufacturers at this time.
Before you ask, you need to heat the timing gear in an oven ( 250* or more ) and have the camshaft in a freezer to get get cold, have retainer plate and keyway installed, and in one quick motion drop the gear on and drive it down till it seats. Just pressing them on works but doesn't have the grip that heated gears do.
I have a low mileage used Blue Racer camshaft I will give you, I might even have a set of lifters somewhere. I will look up the spec's of the cam, it slightly bigger than a stock one.
Last edited by Joe H; 09/19/2023 1:19 PM.
