Is the cam bearing job one that can be done with the crank/rods/pistons in place? I've got the engine on the engine stand now, and no problem setting the short block on the floor to do this job, but I REALLY don't want to take the bottom end all the way apart.

FWIW, I was warned to watch out for "exploding" cam bearings, particularly the front bearing. Neither my 68 nor this 77 had problems with the front bearing - I haven't checked the other bearings in the 68, but will take a look.

Now to see where I can rent the bearing tool and get the bearings on the way...

If the bearing bores in the block were too small, would something like this happen if the bearings were forced in at original assembly?

Thanks!

Clair