megacycle cam install

mikie3117 · Feb 26, 2008

I am installing a mega cycle 560 NR cam in a 750 and have noted various problems with the quality. The ignition side threads are different. That is a known but does cause problems with the seal install "tool" All other dimensions are a problem. The cam sprocket does not fit and the threads are all rough. Has anyone else dealt with this quality issue? Are there any better cams out there that have the same "mild" grind as the 560 NR. I have not even gotten to fitting the new lifters yet!

norbsa48503 · Feb 26, 2008

Mega uses a 1/4-28 thread inside the cam that is how many identify them. If you need to tap them be very careful they are rock hard and brake taps for lunch. It works somewhat better to take a dye grinder and a .030 cut off wheel to a socket head cap screw 1/4-28 and cut a trough into the thread than use it as a thread chaser. Be very careful on the break in we have had a few of these cams chip in use and of course it was not their fault. No way...

mikie3117 · Feb 26, 2008

cam woes reply

Thanks for the heads up. I can get the seal tool just started but it leaves a 3/16" gap which I am making a spacer for. I might even make my own seal tool for the correct thread. I am very disappointed in the quality of all of the threaded fittings and the sprocket jammed 1/2 way on until I assisted it off. This was not fun with assembled cases.
Also since I cannot adjust the mechanical timing without a vernier sprocket?, I am wondering how to verify all of the cam timing specs. I have a mag base and a dial indicator. Are there any sources for the procedure?
Mike

Ron L · Feb 26, 2008

Mike,
Check out this site for how you can dial in the cam with a degree wheel and dial indicator.
http://www.gearhead-racing.com/Workshop/Norton Cam.htm

JimC · Feb 26, 2008

I like http://webcamshafts.com/ cams.

They use your old cam and weld and grind the new profile. I recently sent them one of their cams I had for nine years with thirteen thousand miles that had one lobe worn excessively. Web resurfaced and ground the entire cam for $100.

I've heard some disturbing things about Megacycle. Quality control items, mostly. I'll stick with Web, thank you.

Coco · Feb 26, 2008

JimC said:
I like http://webcamshafts.com/ cams.

They use your old cam and weld and grind the new profile. I recently sent them one of their cams I had for nine years with thirteen thousand miles that had one lobe worn excessively. Web resurfaced and ground the entire cam for $100.

I've heard some disturbing things about Megacycle. Quality control items, mostly. I'll stick with Web, thank you.

My cam is there at Webcam as well and I also have heard some negative talk of the Megacycle product.

JimC · Feb 27, 2008

Hey Coco,

What are you doing for lifters with your new cam? I did a little checking with local machine shop and no one is resurfacing lifters. Automotive lifters are so cheap no one bothers to resurface.

Coco · Feb 27, 2008

JimC said:
Hey Coco,

What are you doing for lifters with your new cam? I did a little checking with local machine shop and no one is resurfacing lifters. Automotive lifters are so cheap no one bothers to resurface.

You know, I'm not sure. CNW is doing my engine rebuild and they sent my cam to Webcam. I know it will be a bit more zippy than stock. I'll contact them and get some exact info.

mikie3117 · Feb 27, 2008

I sent my old lifters out to Megacycle and two sets came back. I thought that they were going to resurface mine but these look different. I was pleased that they slipped into the bores last night. Hopefully they will work.
Mike

Hortons Norton · Feb 27, 2008

WOW, This is something I need to look into. I am re-building a 1972 combat motor and had decided to use a megacycle cam of this same grind, Is there a better quality cam out there????? I have heard the stock Norton cams are soft, Is this true??? One mechanic said to use the stock Norton cam and another said to use the Megacycle cam. I have heard that if you ask 10 mechanics their opinion you will get 11. I would like a little milder cam than the 2s, What would be a good grind and supplier? Thanks for your time, Chuck. :?: :?: :?: :?: :?:

pommie john · Feb 28, 2008

Hortons Norton said:
I would like a little milder cam than the 2s, What would be a good grind and supplier? Thanks for your time, Chuck. :?: :?: :?: :?: :?:

The 2S is pretty mild . Anything less has got to be quite close to standard.

JimC · Feb 28, 2008

If you do go with a Megacycle I would strongly suggest you check each lobe for lift as well as timing. I've heard of some of these issues with the Megacycle cam from one of our very trusted Norton parts suppliers.

Years ago, 1972 to be exact, I rebuilt my 69 Commando after a catastrophic engine failure. I used a Norris cam, "R" grind. That bike was a bullet. First and only pass I made in the 1/4 mile was a 14.00, 98 and change top speed. I'm certain with some practice the bike was capable of mid thirteens. What I'm suggesting here is a grind similar to a Norris "R" grind will produce a strong running 750.