Street Brawler 268/270 H.F.T. Dodge/Chrysler Big Block 350–440B (1958–1980)

🔧 Installation Instructions – REDLINE CAMS Street Brawler 268/270 Hydraulic Flat Tappet Camshaft

(Dodge/Chrysler Big Block 350–440B, 1958–1980)

⚠️ Important Notes Before You Begin:

• Use break-in oil with high zinc/phosphorus (ZDDP) for all flat tappet cams and for the life of your engine.

• Always replace lifters when installing a new camshaft.

• Verify spring pressures, coil bind clearance, and retainer to seal clearance.

• Camshaft break-in is critical — follow the included procedure to prevent premature wear.

1. Preparation

• Disconnect the battery.

• Drain coolant and remove radiator for clearance.

• Remove distributor, carburetor, intake manifold, valve covers, rocker arms, pushrods, lifters, and timing cover.

• Remove old camshaft carefully to avoid damaging cam bearings.

• Clean gasket surfaces thoroughly.

2. Camshaft Installation

• Apply assembly lube generously to all cam lobes, journals, and lifter faces.

• Carefully slide the new camshaft into the block to avoid nicking cam bearings.

• Install new camshaft timing gear and align timing marks (dot-to-dot).

• Install a new double roller timing set (recommended).

• Verify camshaft endplay with a thrust plate or button (if required).

3. Lifter & Valvetrain Setup

• Soak new hydraulic lifters in clean engine oil before installation.

• Install lifters in their bores, coated with assembly lube on the bottoms.

• Reinstall pushrods and rocker arms.

• Hydraulic Zero Lash Setting:

  • Rotate engine until lifter is on the base circle of cam.

  • Tighten rocker until pushrod just loses free spin.

  • Add ½ turn preload for hydraulic lifters.

4. Reassembly

• Reinstall timing cover with new gasket and front seal.

• Reinstall harmonic balancer, intake manifold, carburetor, valve covers, and accessories.

• Refill coolant and reconnect all hoses and wiring.

• Reinstall distributor and set base timing at manufacturer specs (usually 10–14° BTDC initial for performance cams).

5. Break-In Procedure (Flat Tappet Critical Step)

• Use high-zinc break-in oil (10W-30 or 15W-40).

• Prime oiling system with a drill-driven oil pump primer before startup.

• On initial startup, immediately bring engine speed to 2,000–2,500 RPM and hold for 20–30 minutes.

  • Vary RPM slightly (do not idle).

  • Monitor oil pressure and coolant temperature.

• Shut down, allow to cool, and change oil & filter after break-in.

6. Post-Install Checklist

• Verify ignition timing and carburetor adjustments.

• Check valve cover clearance, pushrod geometry, and rocker arm sweep.

• Inspect for leaks and re-torque intake/exhaust bolts after heat cycles.

🔧 Recommended Supporting Parts

• Performance valve springs matched to cam specs (.450"/.460" lift, 5,000 RPM limit)

• New timing chain & gears (double roller recommended)

• Headers & free-flowing exhaust for best performance

• Performance ignition system (capable of handling increased cylinder pressure)

• High-zinc break-in oil for camshaft protection

⚡ Following these steps ensures the REDLINE CAMS Street Brawler 268/270 H.F.T. delivers reliable midrange torque, street-friendly performance, and long service life in your Mopar Big Block.