For the engine builder, tools can be the difference between an effortless assembly or an exercise in frustration. We focus on handy shop tools for the everyday engine builder with the Friday Tool Time Segment. This week’s spotlight is on PROFORM’s Universal Cam Checker (Part #68902).

PROFORM Tool’s Universal Cam Checker (part #68902).

Degreeing a cam is a basic step that every engine builder should follow, but setting up a magnetic base and dial indicator to measure the cam lobe at the lifter is a challenge for many builders. PROFORM Tools has a more convenient solution for both novice and experienced engine builders.

The dial-indicator tool that fits directly into the lifter bore to replace the magnetic base setup has been in use for many years and is quite familiar to engine builders. However, most of these tools are limited to a specific bore diameter, such as .842-inch for GM lifter bores and .875-inch for Ford lifter applications. Granted, one or two models may work for a majority of the engines that a builder deals with on a routine basis, but what happens when something out of the ordinary comes through the door?

PROFORM Tool’s Universal Cam Checker handles a range of lifter bores from .750-inch to 1.050-inch and comes with followers for flat tappet or roller cams.

With a price tag around $88 suggested retail, this one patented tool can replace two or more cam-lift dial indicators in your tool chest. 

“This is one of our patented tools that makes the engine builder’s life easier,” says PROFORM’s Booth Platt. “It’s both durable and affordable with the key differentiator being that it’s also universal.”

As shown in the Stephanie’s Power Shop video above, the cam checker has an aluminum base with a calibrated dial indicator attached to the top end and a steel plunger system on the bottom end where the cam lobe follower tool attaches. Attach either the flat tappet or roller cam follower to the plunger and you are ready to verify the cam’s lobe lift or duration to the cam’s spec card, or check the cam’s actual valve opening and closing points for accurate cam degreeing.