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removing rust from cam lobes?
Posted: Sat Jan 09, 2021 7:15 am
by econo racer
I looked at selling a few new camshafts I kept in my office and they have light rust with some pits. Will emery or scotts brite clean them up. I might have 30 cams they keep poppin up. there are some good grinds in there.
Also found a nice 402 crank shaft. I have to sell everything as I will be starting a new job hopefully in March.
Re: removing rust from cam lobes?
Posted: Sat Jan 09, 2021 10:45 am
by travis
Fine steel wool works well for light rust. Pits might be a problem though
Re: removing rust from cam lobes?
Posted: Sat Jan 09, 2021 10:45 am
by CamKing
If the lobes have pits, they will likely fail during break-in.
Re: removing rust from cam lobes?
Posted: Sun Jan 10, 2021 12:21 am
by rustbucket79
CLR spray does wonders for surface rust, just be sure you’re outside with the garden hose and compressed air and WD 40.
Re: removing rust from cam lobes?
Posted: Sun Jan 10, 2021 9:01 am
by jeff swisher
Cams with rust can be reground but I would not run them.
If it is just on the journals and light rust I have no issues removing that rust with a wire wheel and running them
Re: removing rust from cam lobes?
Posted: Sun Jan 10, 2021 2:29 pm
by PackardV8
Too many variables to answer that question with a yes/no/maybe. Flat tappet or roller? Solid or hydraulic? Stock/street or race? New or reground? Warranty or as-is-where-is-take-your-chances-swap-meet?
In the obsolete engine business, it's usually low spring pressures, low RPM and that's the only cam in the known world, so it gets cleaned and run; minor rust pits on cast iron lobes were no issue.
At the other end is a tool steel cam going in a 9,000 RPM NASCAR engine having to last 500 miles for the series championship.