I own a speed shop in North carolina, and am rebuilding a 430" MEL engine for a customers 61 lincoln convert. The customer bought his own parts, and I need to know what position the cam bearings are installed in. the factory manual says 'the split in the bearing must face the top of the engine block" but the bearings I have, there is no split. there are 2 oil holes, located approx. 120 degrees apart. How should I 'clock' these when they are installed? thanks!!!! -Scott (LKN Speed)

"...am rebuilding a 430" MEL engine for a customers 61 lincoln convert. The customer bought his own parts, and I need to know what position the cam bearings are installed in. the factory manual says 'the split in the bearing must face the top of the engine block" but the bearings I have, there is no split. there are 2 oil holes, located approx. 120 degrees apart. How should I 'clock' these when they are installed?"

First off, I am sure you have noticed this engine has the same oiling provisions as does the FE (390).



The position of the split was to expose as much of the bearing surface to load as possible but you have something new. The cam bearing(s) feeds the mains so one hole has to align with the incoming galley. There should also be a groove in the block (bearing bores) where the second hole supplies oil to this groove. I believe that is where you will determine your indexing.

Also be aware of a major redesign in 1961 whereas the earlier (58/60) cam, bearings and drive sprocket will not work on the later engines (61/68).

The below page is from a 1967 Shop Manual (462) but the same procedure applies-



Let me know if this helps.

Make sure you install the bearings in the correct sequence. IE, largest bearing in the #1 bearing position, then next smaller one, then the next smaller, etc until you have all five installed. The smallest one at the rear. Where the feed holes go DOES NOT MATTER. The groove around the bearings at the block will feed the mains.

Brian

thanks fellas! yes- there is a groove in the block behind the bearings, so oil will feed regardless. Just wanted to be sure. thanks!