Edelbrock 2103 Instruction manual

PERFORMER-PLUS
CAMSHAFT / LIFTERS / LUBE KIT
CATALOG # 2103
MODEL: 400 c.i.d. Chevrolet V8 engines
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
• Please study these instructions carefully before you remove your stock camshaft. If you have any questions or problems, do not hesitate to contact
our Technical Hotline at: 1-800-416-8628.
• These instructions are designed to give general installation guidelines. A complete step-by-step procedure manual would require many pages. If you
are a novice or just learning to work on automotive engines, we recommend consulting either Chilton or Motors automotive manuals before you
begin. You may also wish to contact an experienced mechanic. Be advised: improper installation may result in LOW MILEAGE, POOR PERFORMANCE,
COSTLY REINSTALLATION AND EVEN ENGINE DAMAGE. Installing a camshaft is a complex procedure. Please follow these instructions carefully.
Failure to do so may void your warranty.
• Before you begin the removal and installation process, please examine the kit for possible shipping damage. If the camshaft is damaged, contact
your dealer immediately. Also, make sure you have all the recommended tools and parts as listed below. As you read through these instructions the
first time, use the preparation checklist to check off the exact items you will need.
•
Performer-Plus camshafts are ground specifically for use with the corresponding Performer manifold #2101 or #3701. Both are dyno-matched and
street proven to work as a team; especially when matched with Edelbrock Tubular Exhaust Systems. However, the Performer camshaft may be used
by itself. Edelbrock Performer-Plus cam #2103 is street legal in all 50 states - E.O.#D-215-19.
1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Drain radiator coolant. Drain plug will normally be located on lower
right or left side of the radiator facing the engine.
3. Remove radiator and air conditioning condenser if so equipped. In
some cases, the front grille may have to be removed. Measure dis-
tance from front cover to grille or brackets that may interfere with
camshaft against the length of the camshaft.
4. Remove the gas cap to relieve pressure. Disconnect fuel line and plug.
Replace gas cap.
5. Disconnect all linkage from carburetor such as throttle, throttle
springs, transmission, cruise control and automatic choke.
6. Tag and remove coil wires and sensor wires.
7. Tag and remove vacuum lines.
8. Remove valve covers.
9. Remove distributor cap and wires, rotate engine until rotor points
towards number 1 terminal in cap and pointer on front cover is on top
dead center (TDC) and remove distributor. Note the approximate posi-
tion of the distributor housing in relation to the manifold to assist in
getting the distributor properly located during re-installation.
10. Remove carburetor and intake manifold. Remove and discard intake
manifold gasket.
11. Remove rocker arms and pushrods.
12. Remove hydraulic valve lifters.
13. Remove crankshaft pulley, and using a suitable puller, crankshaft
dampener.
14. Loosen oil pan and remove water pump and front cover.
NOTE: The front cover oil seal should be replaced before the front cover is
re-installed.
PREPARATION CHECKLIST
Hardware & Parts To Buy
• Gaskets - Edelbrock,
OEM or equivalent
• Pipe plugs, if needed
• Edelbrock Gasgacinch #9300
• RTV Silicone Sealant
• Chalk
• Paper and pencil
• Radiator coolant
• Edelbrock Sure Seat Valve Springs,
#5802 or #5902 (for rotators)
• Edelbrock Performer-Link True Rolling
Timing Chain and Gear Set, #7800
• Teflon tape
• Front cover oil seal,
OEM or equivalent
Tools & Equipment For Installation
• Box and open end wrenches
• Socket set
• Distributor wrench
• Pliers (channel locks & hose clamp)
• Screw drivers (regular and phillips)
• Torque wrench
• Hammer
• Gasket scraper or putty knife
• Timing light Vacuum gauge
• Rags
• Water bucket
• Harmonic balancer puller
• Masking tape (for tagging hoses and electrical wires)
• Engine oil & filter
• Crankshaft dampener puller
NOTE: Sure seat springs #5902 not applicable to cylinder heads 1977 and later with casting #14014416. These heads must use Edelbrock spring set
#5802.
REMOVAL OF ENGINE PARTS BEFORE CAMSHAFT INSTALLATION
Be sure to keep all parts in order
WARNING! DO NOT REMOVE RADIATOR CAP OR
RADIATOR HOSES WHILE ENGINE IS HOT!
©2008 Edelbrock Corp. Rev. 9/08 - AJ/mc
Brochure #63-2103

15. Remove fuel pump and fuel pump pushrod. Rotate engine until timing
marks are aligned as in Figure 1.
16. Remove bolts retaining camshaft sprocket. Remove sprocket and
chain.
17. Remove crank sprocket using a gear puller.
18. Remove camshaft.
• VALVE SPRINGS
WARNING ABOUT YOUR WARRANTY:
In order for this
Performer-Plus cam and lifter kit to be covered under ANY
WARRANTY you must use either the correct Edelbrock Sure Seat valve
springs or the stock original equipment valve springs. Failure to do so
could cause the cam lobes to wear excessively and could cause addi-
tional engine damage.
1. This camshaft is designed to function either with the stock springs or
with Edelbrock
Sure Seat valve springs #5802 (std. retainer set), or for
use with valve rotators, use #5902.
2. For older vehicles and vehicles with high mileage we highly recom-
mend replacing the valve springs with Sure Seat Valve Springs # 5802
(std. retainer set), or for use with valve rotators, #5902.
NOTE: Sure Seat Springs #5902 not applicable to cylinder heads 1977
and later with casting #14014416. These heads must use Edelbrock
spring set #5802.
3. Check spring height and set to factory specifications for correct year
and model.
DUE TO THE MANY POSSIBLE SETTINGS OVER THE YEARS, WE
ADVISE CHECKING MOTORS, CHILTON, OR FACTORY SERVICE MANU-
ALS FOR CORRECT SPRING HEIGHT FOR YOUR VEHICLE.
• LIFTERS
1. New lifters must be used with a new camshaft. Use only the lifters sup-
plied with your kit .
2. Check to make sure all lifters fit freely in lifter bores.
• INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
1. Coat cam lobes and bottom of each lifter with MOS2 lube supplied with
your kit. THIS WILL PREVENT CAM LOBE AND LIFTER WEAR FROM
OCCURRING DURING INITIAL ENGINE START UP.
2. Install new camshaft with new sprockets and timing chain.
CAUTION: When using
Performer-Link True Rolling Timing Chain and
Gear Set (#7800 or #7802) with an Edelbrock cam and lifter kit,
straight up timing alignment is achieved. If any other timing gear set is
used, it is necessary to check camshaft position for correct timing
alignment. This requires indexing the camshaft with a degree wheel to
verify timing alignment. O.E.M. or non-Edelbrock timing gear sets are
not recommended for use with Edelbrock camshafts. Use locking com-
pound material on bolt threads holding gear to cam. Torque to factory
recommendations specified in Motors or other repair manual.
3. Install camshaft with timing marks lined up as recommended by fac-
tory specifications. See Figure 2.
• PUSHROD AND ROCKER ARM INSTALLATION—After the cam is
installed and timed correctly (see Figure 2), install pushrods, lifters and
rocker arms.
• VALVE ADJUSTMENT
1. Turn the engine over until the No. 1 cylinder exhaust lifter starts to
move up. At this point install adjusting nut on intake rocker arm and
adjust to zero clearance between rocker arm and valve. From this point
turn adjusting nut down (clockwise) 1/2 turn more for final adjustment.
2. Turn the engine over again until the intake lifter just stops coming
down. At this point install adjusting nut on exhaust rocker arm and
adjust to zero clearance between rocker arm and valve. From this point
turn adjusting nut down (clockwise) 1/2 turn more for final adjustment.
3. The above procedure assures correct hydraulic lifter preload. Repeat
this procedure for each of the other seven cylinders.
4. Install front timing cover with new gasket.
NOTE: Install new seal between oil pan and front cover if old seal is
damaged after removal. Use RTV silicone sealant on seal to ensure
proper seal to pan.
5. Torque front timing cover bolts to 6-7 ft. lbs.
6. Install front harmonic balancer and torque to 60 ft/lbs.
7. Install fuel pump and pushrod.
8. Install water pump using new gaskets and torque to 30 ft.-lbs.
9. Install intake manifold using new intake gasket set and torque bolts to
25 ft/lbs.
• DISTRIBUTOR INSTALLATION AND ENGINE TIMING
1. Turn the engine over in direction of rotation until the No. 1 intake valve
closes and continue until the pointer on the front cover is approxi-
mately five degrees before top dead center (BTDC). See Figure 1 for fir-
ing order.
2. Re-install the distributor with the rotor pointing towards No. 1 terminal
in the cap, and with the distributor housing in its original position. If
distributor will not drop down all the way to the flange on the manifold,
it will be necessary to align the distributor shaft with the oil pump
drive. Slowly rotate the engine until the distributor drops down against
the manifold, then continue turning until two complete revolutions are
completed and the timing marks once again come to five degrees
BTDC.
3. Lightly tighten the hold-down clamp so that the distributor can still be
turned to determine final setting using a timing light with the engine
running.
4. Replace valve covers, carburetor linkage and remaining vacuum and
electrical connections.
5. Engine oil & filter should be changed before and after break-in.
• CAMSHAFT & LIFTER RUN-IN
IMPORTANT:DO NOT ALLOW THE ENGINE TO RUN UNDER 2000 RPM FOR
THE FIRST 1/2 HOUR. Slow idle speeds may result in severe cam and
lifter wear.
START THE ENGINE AND BRING TO BREAK-IN RPM.
• IMPORTANT NOTES AFFECTING YOUR WARRANTY
CAM LOBE WEAR— Cam lobe wear is almost non-existent unless mis-
matched parts are used or installation of the cam and lifters is done
improperly. Most cam damage is caused by the timing gear loosening
due to improper torque on bolts. Bolts holding gear to camshaft should
be torqued carefully and a locking compound applied to threads of
bolts. Before installing your new Performer-Plus camshaft, check the
gear drive on the distributor and oil pump for any signs of wear. If
worn, be sure to replace with a new gear or you may wear out your
camshaft prematurely. High-volume oil pumps are not recommended
with Performer-Plus camshafts. Edelbrock camshafts are designed to
use O.E.M. type gears only.
©2008 Edelbrock Corp. Rev. 9/08 - AJ/mc
Brochure #63-2103

Figure 2— Timing Chain Sprocket Alignment
Timing
Marks
Firing Order: 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2
Figure 1
400 c.i.d Chevrolet V8
Firing Order and Timing Marks
Turn distributor counter clockwise to advance timing
CAM GEARS AND CAMSHAFT END PLAY— If cam gear becomes loose, the
cam will slide back in the block, causing the lifters to hit the lobes next to
them and also the cam bearing journals. If the engine is run after this hap-
pens, the bottom of the lifters and the sides of the lobes will become
chipped.
TUBULAR EXHAUST SYSTEM—For best performance, a tubular exhaust
system is recommended with the Performer package to provide the most
low-end torque. Please consult your Edelbrock dealer or the Edelbrock
catalog for a listing of available Edelbrock
Tubular Exhaust Systems .Be
sure to check local emission control regulations for legality of camshaft
and exhaust system changes.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When using
Performer-Link True Rolling timing chain
and gear sets (#7800 or #7802) with an Edelbrock cam and lifter kit,
straight up timing alignment is achieved. If any other timing gear set is
used, it is necessary to check camshaft position for correct timing align-
ment. This requires indexing the camshaft with a degree wheel to verify
timing alignment. O.E.M. or non-Edelbrock timing gear sets are not rec-
ommended for use with Edelbrock camshafts.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
With the Edelbrock manifold and camshaft package plus a header instal-
lation, a carburetor jet change and ignition change may be required for
best performance. Due to the varied applications of years and models of
vehicles, no one combination could suffice for all installations. The follow-
ing procedure is only a guideline and in many cases, the manufacturing
specifications for recommended carburetors or timing may be best. The
following data was found to produce best results in a test vehicle equipped
with a typical 350 c.i.d. Chevy engine.
CARBURETION
OEM Rochester 4-bbl—No modifications necessary.
Edelbrock #1405 (600 cfm, manual choke)—No modifications
necessary.
Edelbrock #1406 (600 cfm, electric choke)—No modifications
necessary.
IGNITION TIMING
Increase initial setting to 14° BTDC (Before Top Dead Center). Total of ini-
tial and centrifugal advance not to exceed 32°. Full advance achieved at
3,000-3,500 rpm. Vacuum advance curve should be 2° to 4° advance at
8-9 inches of vacuum, increasing to 12° advance at 13 inches of vacuum.
Vacuum advance line must be connected to direct manifold vacuum for
best performance, not ported vacuum.
NOTE: The best combination for any particular vehicle or application must
be determined by trial and error using the above information as a guide-
line.
SPECIAL NOTICE: Edelbrock Performer-Plus camshaft/lifters/lube kits
#2102 and #2103 have received E.O. #D-215-19 making them legal for
street use on pollution-controlled motor vehicles in all 50 states. To
assist you with emissions equipment certification, we have included a
fan shroud decal to help testing personnel verify that the camshaft is a
legal replacement part for small-block Chevrolet/GMC vehicles. The
adhesive-backed decal should be affixed to your fan shroud next to the
existing emission and engine specification decal. Do not cover your origi-
nal equipment specification decal with the Edelbrock Performer-Plus
camshaft decal.
©2008 Edelbrock Corp. Rev. 9/08 - AJ/mc
Brochure #63-2103

CAMSHAFT: Performer-Plus
CATALOG #2103
ENGINE: 400 c.i.d. Chevrolet V8, 1970 & later
RPM RANGE: idle-5500
CAUTION:
Use only Sure Seat Valve Springs, #5802 or 5902
Use stock ratio rocker arms only
Duration at 0.006" Lift: Intake 288° Exhaust 288°
Duration at 0.050" Lift: Intake 214° Exhaust 214°
Lift at Cam: Intake 0.295" Exhaust 0.295"
Lift at Valve: Intake 0.442" Exhaust 0.442"
Timing at 0.050" Lift: Open Close
Intake: 0° ATDC 34° ABDC
Exhaust: 44° BTDC 10° BTDC
Intake Centerline: 107° Lobe Separation: 112°
CAUTION: Use Performer-Link Timing Chain and Gear Set, #7800 or
#7802. Do not use late model timing sets. They are machined in a
retarded position and are not recommended for this camshaft instal-
lation. Edelbrock Performer-Link True Rolling Timing Sets feature
three keyways for specific timing selection. Always use the “0” or
straight-up timing mark when installing Performer-Plus camshafts
with Performer-Link Timing Sets.
CAMSHAFT: Performer-Plus
CATALOG #2103
ENGINE: 400 c.i.d. Chevrolet V8, 1970 & later
RPM RANGE: idle-5500
CAUTION:
Use only Sure Seat Valve Springs, #5802 or 5902
Use stock ratio rocker arms only
Duration at 0.006" Lift: Intake 288° Exhaust 288°
Duration at 0.050" Lift: Intake 214° Exhaust 214°
Lift at Cam: Intake 0.295" Exhaust 0.295"
Lift at Valve: Intake 0.442" Exhaust 0.442"
Timing at 0.050" Lift: Open Close
Intake: 0° ATDC 34° ABDC
Exhaust: 44° BTDC 10° BTDC
Intake Centerline: 107° Lobe Separation: 112°
CAUTION: Use Performer-Link Timing Chain and Gear Set, #7800 or
#7802. Do not use late model timing sets. They are machined in a
retarded position and are not recommended for this camshaft instal-
lation. Edelbrock Performer-Link True Rolling Timing Sets feature
three keyways for specific timing selection. Always use the “0” or
straight-up timing mark when installing Performer-Plus camshafts
with Performer-Link Timing Sets.
CAMSHAFT: Performer-Plus
CATALOG #2103
ENGINE: 400 c.i.d. Chevrolet V8, 1970 & later
RPM RANGE: idle-5500
CAUTION:
Use only Sure Seat Valve Springs, #5802 or 5902
Use stock ratio rocker arms only
Duration at 0.006" Lift: Intake 288° Exhaust 288°
Duration at 0.050" Lift: Intake 214° Exhaust 214°
Lift at Cam: Intake 0.295" Exhaust 0.295"
Lift at Valve: Intake 0.442" Exhaust 0.442"
Timing at 0.050" Lift: Open Close
Intake: 0° ATDC 34° ABDC
Exhaust: 44° BTDC 10° BTDC
Intake Centerline: 107° Lobe Separation: 112°
CAUTION: Use Performer-Link Timing Chain and Gear Set, #7800 or
#7802. Do not use late model timing sets. They are machined in a
retarded position and are not recommended for this camshaft instal-
lation. Edelbrock Performer-Link True Rolling Timing Sets feature
three keyways for specific timing selection. Always use the “0” or
straight-up timing mark when installing Performer-Plus camshafts
with Performer-Link Timing Sets.
CAMSHAFT: Performer-Plus
CATALOG #2103
ENGINE: 400 c.i.d. Chevrolet V8, 1970 & later
RPM RANGE: idle-5500
CAUTION:
Use only Sure Seat Valve Springs, #5802 or 5902
Use stock ratio rocker arms only
Duration at 0.006" Lift: Intake 288° Exhaust 288°
Duration at 0.050" Lift: Intake 214° Exhaust 214°
Lift at Cam: Intake 0.295" Exhaust 0.295"
Lift at Valve: Intake 0.442" Exhaust 0.442"
Timing at 0.050" Lift: Open Close
Intake: 0° ATDC 34° ABDC
Exhaust: 44° BTDC 10° BTDC
Intake Centerline: 107° Lobe Separation: 112°
CAUTION: Use Performer-Link Timing Chain and Gear Set, #7800 or
#7802. Do not use late model timing sets. They are machined in a
retarded position and are not recommended for this camshaft instal-
lation. Edelbrock Performer-Link True Rolling Timing Sets feature
three keyways for specific timing selection. Always use the “0” or
straight-up timing mark when installing Performer-Plus camshafts
with Performer-Link Timing Sets.