First time installing cam

[Straight6Holdens]

G'day, just bought an SL with a NA RB30 and I'm planning on putting a cam in. I've never installed a cam before but I'm wanting to give it a go, so I've just got the following questions:
Do you need to replace/remap the ecu?
Other than Valve springs, oil seal and lifters does anything else need replacing?
Can the cam be installed without removing engine from the car?
Finally what's the best cam ratio for power gains?

I'm set on doing it myself and would really appreciate any answers/insight cheers.

 

[woteva]

No remap required for a baby cam, check recommendations from the supplier.

Can't think of anything else you would need to replace apart from listed above. Might need a rocker cover seal.

Engine removal is not required to replace cam, lifters and springs. When you remove the rocker cover, you can partially see the cam and lifters are hidden inside the guide plate.

 

[Deuce]

Maybe replace water pump and cam belt while you have it apart (unless belt and pump have been done recently).
Yes you cam it while engine is still in the vehicle (because SOHC).
Try these guys for advice on cams/tune/if springs required etc. Very smart team:

Stop & Explore the Power & Performance of Kelford Cams

Optimize & tune your car's performance with Kelford Cams. Quality-driven designs & manufacturing techniques to improve engine hp and torque.

www.kelfordcams.com

 

[woteva]

Maybe replace water pump and cam belt while you have it apart (unless belt and pump have been done recently).

Ah yes, I now remember the cam belt needs to be removed when replacing the water pump - great design....

 

[shane_3800]

To do valve springs it's not nessacery but recomended to remove the head.
As for what is the best cam there is no such thing. What are you trying to achieve?

 

[Vin999]

G'day, just bought an SL with a NA RB30 and I'm planning on putting a cam in. I've never installed a cam before but I'm wanting to give it a go, so I've just got the following questions:
Do you need to replace/remap the ecu?
Other than Valve springs, oil seal and lifters does anything else need replacing?
Can the cam be installed without removing engine from the car?
Finally what's the best cam ratio for power gains?

I'm set on doing it myself and would really appreciate any answers/insight cheers.

Nice buy.
Check this vl build and pay attention to the head/cam section of motor/head/cam installation, there is 1 cam rear issue from memory, also kelford cams from NZ has a good selection.

 

[Straight6Holdens]

To do valve springs it's not nessacery but recomended to remove the head.
As for what is the best cam there is no such thing. What are you trying to achieve?

To be perfectly honest, it's probably all wank factor for me

 

[Straight6Holdens]

Nice buy.
Check this vl build and pay attention to the head/cam section of motor/head/cam installation, there is 1 cam rear issue from memory, also kelford cams from NZ has a good selection.

Awesome thank you the vid helped heaps!

 

[Brettly-2008]

To be perfectly honest, it's probably all wank factor for me

What do you mean? Are you simply chasing a cranky/tough-sounding idle? If so you'll be disappointed trying to achieve that with 3.0 six.