Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

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Jtread53

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I currently have two 454 marine engines that are both in good running condition. Due to the transmission and v-drive setup I already have, one engine must be changed to run in reverse rotation. What is my best option to achieve this? I've been told to change to a reverse-cut camshaft, and the gear set so that only the crank will turn in reverse rotation. I have already purchased a new reverse rotation starter. Is this my best option, and if so, where can I find the parts (camshaft and gear set)? I have checked all local auto parts stores to no avail and have only been able to find the necessary camshaft online, but there is no specification on whether the cam is chain-driven or gear-driven. Does anyone have a picture of such a gear-driven setup? Also, should I reverse the firing order, or would it stay the same if the camshaft is gear-driven?
 
Bondo

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

Jtread53 said:
I currently have two 454 marine engines that are both in good running condition. Due to the transmission and v-drive setup I already have, one engine must be changed to run in reverse rotation. What is my best option to achieve this? I've been told to change to a reverse-cut camshaft, and the gear set so that only the crank will turn in reverse rotation. I have already purchased a new reverse rotation starter. Is this my best option, and if so, where can I find the parts (camshaft and gear set)? I have checked all local auto parts stores to no avail and have only been able to find the necessary camshaft online, but there is no specification on whether the cam is chain-driven or gear-driven. Does anyone have a picture of such a gear-driven setup? Also, should I reverse the firing order, or would it stay the same if the camshaft is gear-driven?
Click to expand...

Ayuh,... Welcome Aboard,... Standard rotation Chevies use a timing chain,...

When reversed, it uses Gears.... crank turns backwards, 'n the cam the way it always does...

Crankshaft Seals, are also different...

You'd probably do better sellin' what you've got, 'n buyin' what ya need...
 
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Lyle29464

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

Where are you? I have what you need to change one but as Bondo said your best shot is getting the correct engine to start with.

What gear do you have? brand and ratio?

PS the starter rotation is not as simple as it seems.
 
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Jtread53

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

Lyle29464 said:
Where are you? I have what you need to change one but as Bondo said your best shot is getting the correct engine to start with.

What gear do you have? brand and ratio?

PS the starter rotation is not as simple as it seems.
Click to expand...

I'm in Tuscaloosa AL I have a new reverse starter You say you have what i need is it a gear drive set up or chain I think I rather go with a gear drive. my understanding is its a 4 gear set. I can have a cam cut by comp cam. not sure if the gear system will fit on a chain type cam. If you have everthing I need to change it over I'd like to talk to you.
 
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Bondo

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

Jtread53 said:
I'm in Tuscaloosa AL I have a new reverse starter You say you have what i need is it a gear drive set up or chain I think I rather go with a gear drive. my understanding is its a 4 gear set. I can have a cam cut by comp cam. not sure if the gear system will fit on a chain type cam. If you have everthing I need to change it over I'd like to talk to you.
Click to expand...

Ayuh,... Yer Not gettin' it,...

The chain drive, 'n 4 gear drive are for Standard rotation motors...

A 2 gear drive, Reverses the Crankshaft, 'n not the cam...
That's HOW Chevy reverse rotates their motors...

You'll also need different crankshaft Seals...

Also,.... Please read the forum rules,...
Postin' personal contact info, is Prohibited...
use the private messaging system..
 
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Lyle29464

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

The Gear I was asking about is the transmission. If it really is a reduction gear most can be changed to operate with a standard turn engine. Do you know the ratio and brand?

You really need to reread Bondo's post. Sell what you got and get what you need.
 
jerryjerry05

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

They sell a trans that will work to make it go the other way.
The motor runs normal and the trans spins it backwards.
Annapolis Transmission.Might be able to help.
Like the others say either get the right block or this trans.
 
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Laspeargunner

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

I currently have a reverse rotation and want to change it to standard. Reading this I am understanding that all I need to do is change the timing from the 2 gears to the chain, and change the seals. Is this correct? I have had people tell me that I will have change cam, crank , pistons, lifters, valves and everything.
 
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Capt Ken

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

You will need to change the cam, distributor and starter. Some engines used the double gears and some used timing chains. You can use the same distributor but will need to change the gear on the end.
 
F14CRAZY

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Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

I know Paragon transmissions can be set fairly easily to turn the other direction, if that helps
 
Bt Doctur

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And dont forget to reverse the pistons and conrod oil squirt hole for the cam lubrication
 
Bt Doctur

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Laspeargunner said:
Re: Best Way to Reverse Rotation for a 454 Engine?

I currently have a reverse rotation and want to change it to standard. Reading this I am understanding that all I need to do is change the timing from the 2 gears to the chain, and change the seals. Is this correct? I have had people tell me that I will have change cam, crank , pistons, lifters, valves and everything.
Click to expand...
And the camshaft
 
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