## How to Polish Camshaft Lobes on Vintage Car Engine
Polishing camshaft lobes is a critical step in rebuilding or modifying a vintage car engine. It helps to reduce friction between the cam lobes and the lifters, which can improve engine performance and longevity. While it may seem like a daunting task, polishing camshaft lobes is actually a relatively simple process that can be completed with a few basic tools.
Materials Required
* Camshaft
* Valve grinding compound
* Valve grinding stick
* Clean rags
* Polishing compound
* Polishing wheel
* Safety glasses
Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Safety First**
Before you begin, put on your safety glasses to protect your eyes from any flying debris.
**2. Clean the Camshaft**
Use a clean rag to remove any dirt or grease from the camshaft. This will help to ensure that the polishing compound adheres properly.
**3. Apply Valve Grinding Compound**
Apply a small amount of valve grinding compound to the cam lobes. Use a valve grinding stick to spread the compound evenly over the entire surface of the lobes.
**4. Grind the Cam Lobes**
Use the valve grinding stick to grind the cam lobes in a circular motion. Apply even pressure to the entire surface of the lobes. Continue grinding until the lobes are smooth and free of any imperfections.
**5. Clean the Cam Lobes**
Use a clean rag to remove the valve grinding compound from the cam lobes. Wipe the lobes down until they are completely clean.
**6. Apply Polishing Compound**
Apply a small amount of polishing compound to a polishing wheel. Use the polishing wheel to polish the cam lobes in a circular motion. Apply even pressure to the entire surface of the lobes. Continue polishing until the lobes are shiny and smooth.
**7. Clean the Cam Lobes (Again)**
Use a clean rag to remove the polishing compound from the cam lobes. Wipe the lobes down until they are completely clean.
**8. Inspect the Cam Lobes**
Inspect the cam lobes to ensure that they are smooth and free of any imperfections. If you find any imperfections, repeat the polishing process until the lobes are perfect.
Tips
* Use a fine-grit valve grinding compound for the best results.
* Apply the polishing compound sparingly to avoid making a mess.
* Use a soft polishing wheel to avoid damaging the cam lobes.
* Be patient and take your time. Polishing camshaft lobes takes time and effort.
* If you are not comfortable polishing camshaft lobes yourself, you can take the camshaft to a professional machine shop.
Benefits of Polishing Camshaft Lobes
* Reduced friction between the cam lobes and the lifters
* Improved engine performance
* Increased engine longevity
By following these steps, you can easily polish the camshaft lobes on your vintage car engine. This will help to improve the performance and longevity of your engine.
