Coated cam with assembly lube during assembly and poured oil into valve openings several times when kicking it over (thinking it might start). Still, as you infer, a less than optimum situation.
I also coated the cam with KG Industries Gear Kote before assembly (thin dry film lube using moly - requires sand blast prep and small spray gun (I use Harbor Freight for blast and spray - although they do now offer Gear Kote in rattle cans) and one hour bake at 300 degrees and an understanding wife). I debated doing this and my research only found one cam supplier who mentioned it (positively) and found no one who warned not to do it. My concern was that it might interfere with (extend?) the initial bedding in and work hardening of the cam lobes. On the other hand, it seemed that the coating of the lobe peaks would be short lived at best, and I decided that the coating would be more + than -.
I have used this product on other engine, gearbox and other internal "working" components that could use added lubrication protection (piston skirts, gears, valve springs, bearing inserts, etc) in other rebuilds. I used their Gun Kote (also requires bake) as a coating in lieu of paint on this and many other bike components (including cylinder barrel, engine crankcase, sub-frame, kickstands, oil tank, etc, etc). Gun Kote creates a thin but very hard and slick coating (teflon) that transfers heat well. It seems to be very durable (MUCH more so than paint. Does not chip). It comes in colors including clear. I fabricated an aluminum bulkhead to close in the rear of the frame and gave it a sanded finish then applied clear GK 10 years ago. It still looks like new and the slick surface helps it stay clean. If I had a large enough oven I would use it for coating frames.
First time I used their stuff was in 1979 rebuild. I really like their products. They are in Taylor TX, not far from me. Owner's name is Joe Fazio. Good guy. 512.352.3245.
https://www.kgcoatings.com/.
Net/net I am glad I used GK on the cam given the endless kicking scenario. YMMV. Once started I followed the CNW recommendations in another thread and used 30 wt non detergent oil and ran the engine at 3000 rpm for 6-7 minutes until the oil heated up and when cool re-torqued everything. I drained oil, cleaned screen, & replaced filter then and after first 50 mile run focused on loading rings with repeated progressive throttle surges and engine load deceleration. The drained oil was much blacker with the GK than would be w/o. The magnetic drain plug had some small chips, but not much different than I recall in previous cam changes. I plan to drain and refill again at 250 miles.
I also plan to re-install the PA unit for re-try and if it still doesn't work to send back to PA for test.
Dave Winship
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