The belt I'm using was a new OE when the engine was rebuilt 5,000 miles ago, so it should be fully stretched and it'll stay on this engine.... should be fine.

I have not filled the lifter that I'm using in #1..... you think it would make any difference? I wouldn't think the diesel oil would stay in the lifter long enough, but I guess I could try it.

The checking spring I'm using is one I got from a hardware store - very light... I can squeeze it easily between my thumb and forefinger.

The water pump is also from the rebuild 5,000 miles ago, so it may have loosened up a little.

I was hoping to hit the factory specs, since they have the late-closing intake..... but I don't think I want to close the intake any later than factory spec..... that would further decrease the dynamic compression ratio. The only way I would want it later is if I had too much power under the curve and not enough above - or if I had an issue with detonation under boost pressure.

I think tomorrow I'll check the #2 intake lobe with the same method, then check both by direct read off the cams without the valves and see if I get a different reading.

I may want to make the cam sprockets adjustable.... then it would be fairly easy to make changes later if I find the need.

You agree with the math, though.... right?

Frank