It appears the camshaft gear has already been changed to a metal one. The originals were fiber and usually have to be busted up during removal. No fun !
Thanks for the great video! My issue is the fiber gear on my cam has no visible timing mark. Is there a way I can confirm timing with counting teeth from the key way?
Just went out and looked at a 216 (same as 235 & 261) that has a fiber gear on it and I'll admit it's very hard to find. It was there but it was filled full of grime that had to be scraped out. It is an indentation that's not on one of the teeth but actually further back on the 1st ridge. When installed properly, the keyway should be roughly pointing at the 2nd upper timing chain cover bolt hole on the passenger's side. The best way of telling if it is in the cam gear is in right position EVEN WITHOUT ANY timing marks is if the #1 piston is at TDC, then rotate the crank counter clockwise and the exhaust lifter should immediately start to lift. Next when you rotate the crank clockwise, the intake lifter should immediately start to lift. FYI, the cam will need to be roated 180 degrees (360 crank rotation) to drop the distributor in -aligned with #1 spark plug terminal. Here's a link if needed. This looks to be the correct alignment too but you'll have to rotate the picture 180 degrees if your engine isn't upside down. 67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/showthread.php?t=441403 Hopefully that helps
It is possible to leave it in the engine by cutting your old cam gear off by using a jaw style puller but be very careful as you risk damaging the camshaft. Installation involves heating up the cam gear evenly to 475 degrees then hammering it on with a dead blow hammer or aluminum drift. Should work well as long as the cam is clean, lubed up and cold. Don't forget to have the cam retaining plate, thrust washer and keyway installed 1st.
