This is what I was stating last night. The gears on the cam and dist.shaft are "helical" cut (yes! I finally remembered the word ) and what will happen is what both myself and a few others have already posted here. This is the same as when you're putting your distributor in, watch the rotor turn as it meshes with the cam gear, move the distributor just 1/8" and watch how much the rotor turns. In regards to the amount of cam walk is acceptable, specs are between .001" and .006" with a maximum of .009". 1/8" equals .125", that's a big difference.
I never thought about it that technically but that makes good logical sense. I still have my doubts as that being the problem but I have to admit that it's possible. It will be interesting to find out the final results on this one.
1/8" camshaft endplay some things to look for Thrust plate worn or back of timing gear (usally caused from 0 endplay at install or lack of lubrication), timing gear did not seat /pull in propperly on end of cam, timing gear bolt came loose ,or incompatible parts. Its time to take the timing cover off and do some checking, hopefully its something simple.
he replaced gear on distributer, new thrust plate and new timing chain and gears. problem solved...tiny bit of play...thanks folks...Jim
