Securing camshaft bushings (or sleeve bearings) into the engine block or cylinder head is a precise, critical operation.These bushings serve as the direct bearing surface for the camshaft, controlling valve timing and lift. The bushing-to-block joint is subjected to heavy radial load (from valve train forces), torsional stress (from driving the oil pump/distributor), and constant heat and oil exposure. Maintaining a tight, zero-clearance press fit is vital to prevent bushing spin, fretting wear, and oil pressure loss through the block.
INCURE WeldLock™ 365 Retaining Compound
For securing camshaft bushings—where maximum shear strength, high-temperature resistance, and absolute zero movement are paramount—the WeldLock™ 365 provides the highest structural integrity. Its superior strength ensures the bushing cannot spin or walk out, maintaining the correct oil passages and valve timing geometry.
| Feature & Benefit | Technical Insight for Camshaft Bushing Assemblies | Conversion Value |
| Highest Strength (365) | Cures to an extremely high-shear strength, rigid plastic, providing maximum resistance to radial load and torsional slip. | Zero Spin: Eliminates all micro-movement, preserving the oil passages and preventing fretting wear between the bushing and the block. |
| High Temperature Resistance | Withstands continuous operational temperatures up to 200∘C (392∘F), essential for components deep within the hot engine core. | End the Heat Threat: Guarantees the joint won’t fail or soften under maximum engine thermal load. |
| Fills Close Clearance Gaps | Ideal for components with an interference or true close-tolerance slip fit (less than 0.05 mm diametral clearance) typical of precision engine machining. | Maximizes Contact: Converts the fit into a monolithic bond, optimizing load distribution and oil flow integrity. |
| Oil Immunity | Inert to engine oil and assembly lubricants, ensuring the integrity of the joint is protected within the fluid environment. | Reliability Assured: The bond remains permanently intact despite constant saturation with hot oil. |
Application Steps: Locking Camshaft Bushings for Maximum Engine Life
Preparation (Critical): Thoroughly clean both the bushing’s outer diameter (OD) and the bore in the engine block/head.Remove all oil, grease, and residue. Use a degreasing solvent (like acetone or brake cleaner) and wipe until both metal surfaces are perfectly dry.
Application: Apply a continuous, liberal bead of WeldLock™ 365 evenly around the bushing’s outer diameter or the inside circumference of the block bore. Ensure the compound completely covers the mating area.
Assembly: Press the bushing into the bore using the manufacturer’s specified tools, ensuring correct alignment of oil holes. Ensure the component is fully seated. Wipe away any excess compound immediately.
Curing Time (Mandatory): Allow a full 24 hours for the compound to reach full cure strength before continuing engine assembly (installing the camshaft) or operating the engine.
Alternative Consideration (Worn Blocks): If the block bore is slightly worn and the clearance gap is larger (up to 0.25 mm), use INCURE WeldLock™ 356 (Metallic Grey). This compound is specifically formulated with fillers to tolerate larger diametrical clearances while still providing high structural integrity.
Stop risking bushing spin and oil pressure loss, and ensure your engine’s valve train foundation is absolutely rigid and reliable.