I received a new Cam setup for my 88. I am upgrading the cam chest over to hydraulic tensioners and conversion cams from wood performance. I have everything I need to do the job. One question I have is about Cam Shaft Break in. What is the proper procedure, oil, etc...?
Any help is appreciated. I currently run full synthetic. Typically amsoil.

 

What I was told this morning when I called the guy who is going to install my cams next week (he’s a HD master tech who left dealer to go to a private shop) is that cams really don’t require any special break in. And my bike will go to the dyno for tuning right away. He said it’s not like a fresh top end that should be heat cycled and broke in. And your normal oil is fine.

I run AMSOil as well and he said “yeah, starting with fresh oil and new cams is good but not a must” when I asked about new oil/ oil change at same time. So I gather that as install the cams (with assembly lube of course) and run as normal. But I’m also putting in new lifter as well with my new cams. And being that these engines use hydraulic roller lifters with the cams, a break in isn’t really needed like would be with a flat tappet/ solid lifter setup.

 

run it.......no need for break in.

 

It's always good to use assembly lube on new parts and bearings...

 

Camshaft break in is for flat tappet junk

 

Thanks guys, Yes, I have assembly lube. I usually like to "get **** done" quickly. But I am doing my research on this (actually looks relatively straight forward). Making sure I have everything needed to do the job. I just don't want to end up smoking the cams because of a break in procedure. Looks like i'll just do a fresh oil change as it is needed and go riding. After the tune of course.

 

Piston rings to cylinder walls is what needs a break in. Since your only changing out cam chest components, there is no break in. Put in clean oil and ride it.