Distributor Cam Gear ID?

[jeffncs]

I have a dilemma….. supposedly a stock 1994 5.0 engine which should have a roller cam. I didn’t build this engine nor have I taken it apart. I don’t have any reason to believe it’s been rebuilt based on normal bearing wear on the mains.

There wasn’t a dizzy installed in the engine at purchase (not concerned about that) which means I don’t have a starting point for the dizzy gear.

I can’t and don’t want to go backwards to take this engine apart. Should I assume it’s a roller cam or should I take a more conservative approach and use a bronze gear which will knowingly wear faster.

Am I overthinking this?

 

[Broncobowsher]

Can you get a valve cover off? You should be able to peak down the pushrod holes enough to see if there is a dog bone holding the lifter in place.

 

[jeffncs]

Can you get a valve cover off? You should be able to peak down the pushrod holes enough to see if there is a dog bone holding the lifter in place.

Good call. I’ll do that tonight. Thanks for the suggestion!

 

[jeffncs]

Endoscope for the win…. Pulled valve cover, rocket and pushrod. I can see the retainer so it’s def a roller cam

Engine looks super clean!

Glad I ordered a steel gear this morning! (Leap of faith!)

Thanks!

 

[nvrstuk]

Melonized gear for the win. Works for all.

Never use a brass gear unless you are racing and tear it down every season... or more often. They wear fast. 2 guys I know got almost a year and then their oil filter was glittering with brass... remember these are non- DD's too...