As a 23 year old aspiring mechanic who only really knows late model LSx motors, I have never heard this term before until recently when I began tearing down my Dad's 440. Does it have something to do with flat tappet style lifters? Since I have only had experience with roller cams and lifters, I was thinking this was a possibilty.

What is the technical definition of "wiping a cam?"

(sorry for dumb questions)

Thanks!
Erik

 

ok, this ties back to my zinc problem
when the lifters destroy themselves, the next thing to go is the cam. the bottom of the lifters gets rounded, until it finally opens up, losing oil pressure. at least point, there is no question that the cam will be destroyed too, (wiping out the cam).

 

Ok, I see, so its "wiping out" the cam....like f'n it up?

THANKS brother!
E

 

as i have stated in recent post the vr1 valvoline oil has one of the most ppm of zinc but if you are in a cold weather state and you plan on driving it while its cold out you should run the maxlife oil as it has thinner grades , i have always used valvoline oil in my rides and did try the full synthetic oil in my challenger this past summer and it was a mistake as it only has 850 ppm of zinc , but the maxlife is a good choice for the cold months and the vr1 is the best in my book for the summer but i am sure there are more oils out there that carry the same ppm's as valvoline but my choice is just that , hope this helps you out alittle bit further

 

i run rotella T
i think it only has 800, but i was assured that would be enough, and ive driven a lot since the rebuild i did, and its running fine

 

GREAT INFO guys, thanks so much!!!
Erik

 

no problem
good luck