I reported over the past here with issues concirning hydraulic lifter within the 603 engine.

To quickly bring up up to date, I have had the cam off, replaced suspected worn lifters now more than 7 times. I'm beginning to wonder just how many times you can safely torque a bolt into aluminum?

After measuring lobe instance on my currently installed cam, 200K, and that of another used 603 cam, 250K, both show uneven, or erratic, measurements.

I would love to hear someone say, Ya, your cam is worn, and buy a new one!

ya cam is warn
happy now

May we have a second opinion . . .

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Steve
'87 300TD - 132K - Soon 4-Sale
'84 300D Turbo - 122K - Driving
'77 VW Type II - 77K - Restored
'08 250EX Ninja
English Bulldog (Brier) - My best friend. Passed away 12/02/04 while in my arms.

what kind of oil u using?

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

Timely subject. Just this afternoon I dropped by Elgin Cams to ask for a recommendation. Always cams of all types and descriptions lying on the counter, its an education just to look at the variety of cams they are checking and repairing. Little short cams, long huge cams out of big truck engines. Unbelievable the different sizes and designs!
I have had OM617 cams polished there, and checked for wear.
You can trust this place, after all, check out their web site and if you want valid data, not just opinions, send your cam in and get it checked out to spec. No ambiguity or erratic measurements!
They can even repair it if necessary or you could ask them to "hop it up" maybe advance lift or something? I'd like to do that to my 603 with the head off at the present time I found a second engine in the interim but it needs new liners

http://www.elgincams.com/
Also read the Glossary section so you will be able to speak Cam-lingo.
And, Tah- Daaaaa! I just happen to have a used 260K mile 603 cam here in case you want to buy it (cheap?) you'll need to have it checked out and polished. Elgin charges about $40 (at least 3 or 4 years back that was the going price, including a polish of all the lobes) and a repair will cost much more of course!

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'95 E320 Wagon my favorite road car. '99 E300D wolf in sheeps body, '87 300D Sportline suspension, '79 300TD w/ 617.952 engine at 367,750 and counting!