BritishV8 Forum

Ok before I get started I want to say that I WILL be sending my cam off to be reground
Now that being said  what happens if I didn't have it sent off to be reground it has some pitting on it some ware from the lifters it seems like such a small thing that it wouldn't matter because it did work when it was in the car so why is it so important to have it done

If it has worn at all, it will continue to wear until its gone, even if you have the same lifter still mated to it, though I'd imagine the lifter that goes to that lobe will likely show wear as well. You need all new mating surfaces if any sign of lobe wear. Thats just one honkey's opinion though,hehehe..........

Tristan, If your proficient with calipers, you can measure lobe wear, nose to heel. It's likely the intake lobes,will have more lobe lift, than the exhaust. The problem with re-grinding is, you need to grind "all" intake or exhaust lobes down to where the "worst" lobe has 100% cleanup. These cams have a small base circle, and re-grinding only aggravates this problem. IMHO, if you value a quality build, buy a new cam and lifters.  TRW used to sell oem replacement, new cams, at less than aftermarket $'s.  Cheers, roverman.

Considering that a brand new Crower camshaft costs just $158 (shipping included), I'm wondering if it's really cost effective to regrind an old cam.

Ref: http://www.crower.com/camshafts/buick/215-300-340/buick-215-340-compu-pro-hydraulic-cam-278-hdp.html

What do shops charge for regrinding a cam?

the shop I would like to send it to wants like 80 for it but if it would be better to buy I new one I will do that what do u think

Here is a link to Delta camshaft's web site where they have some interesting videos on how the process works.
I have used them in  the past for custom grinds, such as forced induction engines where there may not been an "off the shelf" grind aviliable.
http://www.deltacam.com/camshaftgrinding.php

Bill

To re-iterate what Jimmy has posted, with a new cam, you'll need a new set of lifters - don't re-use the old ones.

Delta does good work on regrinds. It usually results in a smaller base circle and longer pushrods may be necessary. Also never reuse old lifters,use new ones on a reground cam also.