When a camshaft is “degreed” it means the camshaft position in the engine has been synchronized with the crankshaft position. Degreeing the cam is the only positive means to determine if the rise and fall of the pistons correctly matches the opening and closing of the valves.

For a camshaft install, the process of degreeing a cam ensures that the centerline of the lobes is where the manufacturer says it is and we'll dive into a quick look at how you check and adjust the camshaft's relative position to the crankshaft.

Degreeing the camshaft ensures that it is installed precisely where the camshaft manufacturer intended and helps truly opimize the engine’s valve timing events.

There are several ways to degree the camshaft position, but the most accurate and commonly used procedure is called the intake centerline method. We will need a few specialty tools to accomplish this task correctly and accurately. The most important tools are a dial indicator and a degree wheel.