Ok guys, I am doing a refresh on an LA 318, Cam, lifters, cam bearings, bottom end bearings, gasket set.

I don't have a lot of knowledge on tearing into the small blocks. But have done a few timing chain sets, and a camshaft or two, on them over the years.

While searching Summit for the Cloyes double roller timing set I normally use I happened to see the little option about the thrust bearing. Is there a thrust bearing on an LA timing set, if so where is it?

Does it keep the cam from walking?

Is it required on a stock daily driver?

The only one listed through Summit was a Milodon torrington bearing setup. And I know I have never noticed that on a timing set change before.

There is a cam retaking plate. No bearing.

The Milodon bearing is for the Milodon gear drive.

All the L.A. Mopar SB, no Magnums motors though, I've seen have the cam retaining plate that bolts to the front of block that limits the cam travel front to rear along with what the oil pump drive gear limits front to rear also.
On your deal I wouldn't be concerned at all, buy and use a good, decent quality timing set and build the motor
The BB and Gen 2 Hemi motors with solid roller race cams need the thrust bearing set up so the cam gear doesn't try to eat up the front of the block with the cam gear

Thanks guys. It's been a long time since I have been into a small block.

With the 3 keyway set you might adv the cam 4 deg & have the timing cover on loose/not snugged up all the way then start the dampener on part way (to center the t cover) then snug the t cover the rest of the way tight & do the t cover before you install the pan. check gasket fitment in the beginning, quality control can be off. t cover gasket goes on one way to line up with all bolt holes with the (1) extra gasket bolt hole that ain't used (no big deal). pump gasket: flip it over both ways & you will see that it (slightly but important) covers more area one way than the other. some t cover bolts are wet. Permatex indian head cement works good.