cam ?'s

[dodge_this_5.7_hemi]

So I've got the top end of my motor torn down, replacing lifters, assuming that my cam is probably worn and needs replaced, I guess my question is that if I upgrade my cam do I need different push rods, I guess I'm kinda lost on all this 5.7 and 6.1 rod swap?

 

[RonJon '06]

The idea is that the 6.1L springs are stronger and can take the increased lift from a more aggressively lobed Cam. Same with the pushrods, they are built stronger than the rods for the 5.7L. And welcome to RF.

 

[dodge_this_5.7_hemi]

Thank you, I kinda figured that was the principle behind that, so did I shoot my self in the foot by getting the stock lifters? Also I noticed that when I got the cam and crank in time the chain is not lined up how they say one black link on the cam at 12 o'clock and two on the crank splitting the timing mark at 6o'clock on the crank, I'm off by one link is that normal to see, the chain has never been done so is that something that could have came off the assembly line like that, never had a problem until a bad lifter, I Don't See How It Would Have Jumped A tooth...

 

[charonblk07]

Different length rods would depend on the base circle of the cam. Given that the lifters are hydraulic rollers, I highly doubt the cam's worn, but if you want to pull the cam, then I'd go for it. The 6.1L lifters are an alright upgrade, but there are better springs out there that don't need spacers/locators.

Don't worry about having the timing chain lined up when you pull everything apart, it's just a starting point, and the links will migrate around the gears as they turn. It's just important when you install everything to get the timing correct by using the links.