I picked up a set of SE 203 cams for next to nothing here recently (okay, it was nothing... LOL).

Was going to put these into my bike, but as I was inspecting them and prepping them for storage, I noticed one of the lobes, on the very edge, has a chip in it. It might be all of 0.5mm in size. The guy I got the cams from said that it would be fine and wouldn't hurt, as the lifter rides the center of the lobe, but I am worried that the metal is compromised and might further deteriorate, causing major damage.

For that matter, I have another set of cams that was given to me, I want to say they are SE 253's or 235s... but according to spec, they are WAAAAAYYYY too much for what I want. (I think they were designed for 110" motors with headwork and the like.)

Any ideas? Don't say "Go with blah blah cam." I can't afford a lot right now, and just trying to do what I can with the little that I have.

 

I work with gold and platinum for a living. If I saw that I would be worried too! Get your nothing money back>

 

I have a set of 203's with a nick on the side of the lobe as well... Getting ready to install them. Don't worry about a nick on the edge of the lobe. run your finger over it and as long as there isn't a barb on it you are good to go. The rollers on the lifters are far enough away from the edge of the lobe (or at least they should be) to avoid any issues.

 

Call Andrews or the like and ask for tech services. Tell em what you you posted here, come back and tell us what they tell you. I'll bet that its OK with a chip on it. Post a pic?

 

What everybody is worred and curious about, me too, is stress fractures at a hard surface layer that could cause it to grow and or seperate.

 

Not really something I know anything about. I do think it's worth pointing out that, in general, it isn't just the chance, but the consequence as well that determines risk.

 

i have put many cam sets in and if the only problem is a small chip on the edge like you said just try to smoth it out with 220 gt. sand paper and it will be fine. just try not to damage the cam suface the lifter rolls on.

 

That's what I am worried about. I don't want to put these things in, and then end up with a bigger problem... like a lobe that cracked further and sent shrapnel into my engine.

I will try to post a pic of the chip, if I can find the cams. I think my wife hid them on me.

 

Here are the pictures.... Had to find where I stashed the box....

 

Anyone???