Farm Equipment - Allis chalmers b camshaft resistance

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Allis chalmers b camshaft resistance

Printed From: Unofficial Allis
Category: Allis Chalmers
Forum Name: Farm Equipment
Forum Description: everything about Allis-Chalmers farm equipment
URL: https://www.allischalmers.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=210307
Printed Date: 05 Mar 2026 at 8:48am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 11.10 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: Allis chalmers b camshaft resistance

Posted By: Tcfcowboy
Subject: Allis chalmers b camshaft resistance
Date Posted: 04 Mar 2026 at 8:03pm

Hello all, I am working on a total restoration of a 38 model B, I installed new Clevite camshaft bearings, and when I put the camshaft back in, it seem to have a bit of resistance, my question is, should the camshaft spin freely, or is it supposed to have some resistance? Thanks.

Replies:

Posted By: KMAG
Date Posted: 04 Mar 2026 at 8:39pm

Cam drives the oil pump, which adds drag. New bearings are snug on cam with break-in lube. Cam takes ~5' pounds to start turning and then less to continue turning. Cam should have no binding during rotations.

Posted By: SteveM C/IL
Date Posted: 04 Mar 2026 at 8:49pm

did you swell any driving in? Roll it around some and remove. Look for bright(tight) spots and scrape down.

Posted By: Les Kerf
Date Posted: 04 Mar 2026 at 10:12pm

With nothing else attached (no oil pump, crankshaft, pushrods, etc.) the camshaft should rotate quite freely. I would use light oil for checking, use assembly lube for startup.

Posted By: Tcfcowboy
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2026 at 6:04am

It takes probably, 5-10lbs to turn it with nothing attached, But it rotates smoothly once I rotate it. I polished the camshaft journals with a buffer wheel. I’ll see if I can find a high spot.

Posted By: DrAllis
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2026 at 6:30am

Just keep turning it with penetrating oil while pulling it in/out. Use a speed handle or electric drill. Don't buff anything.