in the process of changing out my 5.0 merc. vortec for a 5.7 vortec truck engine

alex3012red

Seaman
Joined
Nov 20, 2006
Messages
65
Ive went thru a lot of post on differences, i think i got it, my question is does the 5.0 cam work on the 5.7, both are vortec, just thought i asked, since iam taking the heads out to change the gasket. i can do the cam if it works. thanks in advance
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
47,304
depends....

what vintage 5.0..... what vintage 5.7

if both are flat tappet..... your good to go

if both are roller cams..... your good to go

in addition to your head gaskets, dont forget the core plugs need to be brass or stainless
 

aimlow

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Nov 7, 2018
Messages
180
A 5.0 and a 5.7 MAY use the same cam. A 5.7 can use a slightly lumpier cam than a 5.0 because of the engine displacement. The heads are definitely different. Check vortec heads for cracks!
 

achris

More fish than mountain goat
Joined
May 19, 2004
Messages
27,468
depends....

what vintage 5.0..... what vintage 5.7

if both are flat tappet..... your good to go

if both are roller cams..... your good to go

in addition to your head gaskets, dont forget the core plugs need to be brass or stainless

Merc have always used the same cam in both 5 and 5.7 engines (with Scott's qualifier)...
But if you're using a truck engine, it's cam should be fine...

Chris...
 
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