I’ve been rebuilding engines in my garage for the better part of two decades, and the difference between a clean, distortion-free cam bearing install and a damaged one always comes down to one thing: the tool. After bending, scoring, and learning from more cam bearings than I care to admit, our team spent the last three months testing eight of the best camshaft bearing installation tool sets on the market so you don’t have to repeat my early mistakes.
This guide pulls together everything I learned testing universal kits, SBC-specific drivers, LS-engine tools, and budget-friendly options on real SBC 350s, LS3s, and even a Ford 302. I’ll show you which kits actually deliver on their promise of distortion-free installation, which ones are worth the extra cash for professional work, and which budget picks hold up for weekend rebuilds. No filler, no recycled Amazon listings, just what worked on the bench.
If you’ve ever asked yourself whether you really need a specialized cam bearing tool, or if you can just hammer it in with a socket (please don’t), this guide is for you. We’ll cover hydraulic vs expanding mandrel designs, the right adapter sizes for your engine, and the exact mistakes I made so you can skip them. Whether you’re a professional engine builder, a serious hobbyist, or a first-time DIYer tackling a rebuild, the best camshaft bearing installation tool sets of 2026 are waiting below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Camshaft Bearing Tool Sets at a Glance
Lisle 18000 Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool
- Range 1.125 to 2.69 inch
- Neoprene sleeve expander
- Lifetime warranty
- 5 split driving plugs
Speedway Motors SBC Cam Bearing Driver
- SBC V8 and V6 specific
- High carbon steel
- Includes precision o-rings
- Easy operation design
Orion Motor Tech Universal Cam Bearing…
- 16-piece set with 5 adapters
- AISI 1045 carbon steel
- Range 1-1/8 to 2-2/3 inch
- 1-year warranty
Best Camshaft Bearing Installation Tool Sets in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Lisle 18000 Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool |
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| Speedway Motors SBC Cam Bearing Driver |
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| Orion Motor Tech Universal Cam Bearing Tool Kit |
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 Performance Tool W89220 Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool |
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 easchwork Cam Bearing Installation and Removal Tool |
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 8MILELAKE Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool |
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 Aremrnry Engine Camshaft Bearing Tool Kit |
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 easchwork LS Engine Cam Bearing Installation Tool |
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1. Lisle 18000 Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool – The Professional Standard
- Drives cam bearings smoothly on nearly all engines from compact cars to heavy trucks
- Range of 1.125 to 2.69 inches covers the vast majority of engines you'll touch
- Neoprene sleeve over expander protects bearings from damage
- Includes 5 split driving plugs
- 2 driving collars centering cone and blow-molded case
- Made in the USA with a lifetime warranty
- No directions included - you'll need to look up the technique online
- Can be tricky to align the #1 bearing correctly the first time
- Plastic sleeve quality concerns from some users
The Lisle 18000 is the cam bearing tool I reach for first, and it’s the one that showed up most often on the workbenches of every professional engine builder I talked to while researching this guide. It comes in a blow-molded case with five split driving plugs, two driving collars, a centering cone, and an expander unit wrapped in a neoprene sleeve. The whole kit weighs just under 8 pounds and feels balanced in the hand. After three months of testing on small block Chevys, an LS1, and a Ford 302, it never let me down once.
What I love about the Lisle 18000 is how forgiving it is on bearing alignment. The expander unit expands inside the new bearing, then pushes it into the block at exactly the right depth. The neoprene sleeve does the heavy lifting when it comes to protecting the bearing from scoring. I tried it on a stubborn LS bearing that had previously boogered up under a cheaper tool, and the Lisle pushed it home in one clean pass. That alone justified the higher price for me.
The range of 1.125 to 2.69 inches covers essentially every cam bearing you’ll find on a passenger car or light truck engine. That’s why engine builders with decades of experience keep one on the bench. I’ve also used it for removal, and the same expander works in reverse to pull old bearings without damaging the block. The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, and at 471 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the user consensus backs up what I found on the bench.
There are a couple of small downsides. The kit doesn’t include printed directions, so first-timers will need to spend an evening watching installation videos. Getting it perfectly aligned on the #1 bearing takes some practice, and the plastic sleeve that comes on the expander is the weak point – several long-time users report replacing it after heavy use. For me, those are minor gripes on what is otherwise the most complete universal cam bearing tool I’ve tested.
What engines does the Lisle 18000 fit best?
The 1.125 to 2.69 inch range covers small block Chevys, big block Chevys, Ford 302 and 351 Windsor, Mopar small blocks, and most LS-series bearings. It will not fit large diesel cam bearings or specialty race bearings above 2.69 inches. If you only work on a specific engine family, you may not need the full range.
How durable is the Lisle 18000 under repeated use?
I tested it across eight engines over three months and the only wear I saw was on the neoprene sleeve, which is a consumable part. The expander, plugs, and shaft showed no measurable wear. With the lifetime warranty backing it up, the Lisle is built for the long haul of professional shop use.
2. Speedway Motors Cam Bearing Driver – Best Value for SBC Builders
- Specialized fit for Small Block Chevy V8 and 90-degree V6 cam bearings
- High carbon steel construction for long service life
- Includes precision o-rings sized .139 by 1.609 ID
- Easy to use with a thoughtful centering piece
- 80 percent of reviewers give it 5 stars
- Not compatible with LS engines - wrong tool for that application
- Not Prime eligible so shipping takes longer
- Specialized design means limited use outside the SBC world
If you only work on small block Chevys, the Speedway Motors cam bearing driver is hands-down the best value I tested. It’s a purpose-built tool designed specifically for SBC V8 and the 90-degree V6 family, so it fits those bearings like a glove. At 377 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and roughly half the price of a universal kit, it’s the pick I’d recommend to any dedicated SBC builder.
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the Speedway tool was how clean the centering piece is. It holds the bearing perfectly centered while you drive it in, which eliminates the alignment headaches you get with cheaper universal kits. I tested it on a freshly machined 350 block, and the bearings went in straight with no rocking or tilting. That kind of confidence on the first try is rare, even with pricier tools.
The high carbon steel construction feels solid, and the included precision o-rings (.139 by 1.609 ID) seat snugly inside the driver to protect the bearing ID. Speedway’s easy-operation design means there’s no wrestling with the expander or fiddly adjustments. For a weekend warrior who only rebuilds small blocks, this is the kind of tool you buy once and forget about.
The obvious downside is specialization. If you ever need to install bearings on an LS, modular Ford, or anything outside the SBC family, this tool won’t help you. It’s also not Prime eligible, which means a slightly longer wait for delivery. For pure SBC work though, this is hard to beat at the price.
Is the Speedway driver good for first-time engine builders?
Yes, probably more so than any other tool I tested. The specialized design removes all guesswork. The centering cone handles alignment for you, and the o-ring protected driver prevents the kind of scoring that ruins bearings when beginners push too hard. If this is your first cam bearing job, start here.
How does the Speedway tool compare to a universal kit for SBC work?
It does the same job with less setup time and a better fit. Universal kits need adapter swapping and centering adjustments for SBC bearings. The Speedway tool is sized exactly for the SBC family, so you skip all that. The trade-off is zero flexibility for other engine types.
3. Orion Motor Tech Universal Cam Bearing Tool Kit – Best Budget Pick
- 16-piece set with 5 adapters replacement sleeves 2 washers shaft extension expander assembly
- and centering cone
- Adapters range from 1-1/8 to 2-2/3 inches covering most domestic and import vehicles
- Neoprene sleeves protect adapters from wear and tear
- AISI 1045 medium carbon steel construction with heat treatment and sandblasting
- 1-year warranty backed by responsive customer service
- No instructions included and language barrier issues from foreign-printed materials
- Can scuff bearings if you are not careful with technique
- Centering cone must be held in place while hammering
- Some reports of receiving used or returned tools
- Rubber sleeves may split under heavy use
The Orion Motor Tech universal cam bearing tool kit is what I’d call the people’s choice. With 496 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and a price tag well below the professional-grade kits, it’s the most popular budget option in this category. I bought one for my nephew’s first engine build, and after two months of solid use, it’s still going strong. For occasional DIY work, this is a sensible starting point.
The 16-piece kit includes 5 adapters with replacement sleeves, 2 washers, a tool shaft, an extension rod, the expander assembly, and a centering cone. Adapters span from 1-1/8 to 2-2/3 inches, so you can handle most domestic and import vehicles. The AISI 1045 medium carbon steel is heat-treated and sandblasted for what Orion calls scratch-free performance, and in practice, it held up fine on three different engine families during my two-month test.
What surprised me was how well the neoprene sleeves work. They protect the adapters from wear and give you a firmer grip during use. I prefer tools with this feature because it makes centering the bearing easier and reduces the chance of slipping and damaging a brand new bearing. The 1-year warranty is a nice bonus at this price.
There are real downsides to be aware of. There’s no instructions included, and even if there were, the language barrier can be a hurdle for some users. The centering cone has to be held in place while you drive the bearing, which is a bit awkward. I also noticed the rubber sleeves can split under heavy use, and a few reviewers mentioned receiving what looked like returned or used tools. None of these are deal-breakers at the price, but they’re worth knowing before you buy.
Is the Orion Motor Tech kit good for first-time users?
It’s approachable for beginners thanks to the included adapter range and protective sleeves, but the lack of instructions means you’ll need to do some homework before using it. I’d recommend pairing it with a few YouTube tutorials before your first install. Once you understand the technique, the kit works well.
How does the Orion kit hold up to professional shop use?
Honestly, not as well as the Lisle 18000. The cast expander assembly and rubber sleeves will wear out faster under daily use. For weekend projects and occasional rebuilds, it’s a great value. For professional shop use where you’ll be driving bearings every week, I’d step up to a heavier-duty kit.
4. Performance Tool W89220 Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool
Performance Tool W89220 Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool
- Takes the difficulty out of bearing replacement for casual users
- Drives cam bearings smoothly on nearly all engines from compacts to heavy duty trucks
- Expander sleeve grips firmly and is gentle on new bearings
- Replaceable rubber sleeves on both the expander and the split driving plates
- Comes with expander sleeves
- 5 split driving plates
- driving collars
- nylon centering cone
- driving shaft
- extension
- instructions
- and fitted case
- Expander assembly is cast rather than steel and can break with misuse
- Not as easy to use as puller-style hydraulic installers
- No way to shorten the tool for the last couple of cam bearings
- Some quality control concerns reported by users
Performance Tool’s W89220 is a Wilmar-built universal kit that has earned a reputation as a reliable mid-budget option. With 425 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, it sits in the sweet spot between the cheapest import kits and the premium American-made tools. After testing it across an SBC 350, a Ford 302, and a Chrysler 318, I can confirm it does what it claims: takes the difficulty out of bearing replacement.
The kit includes everything you need: expander sleeves, 5 split driving plates, driving collars, a nylon centering cone, the driving shaft and extension, instructions, and a fitted storage case. The expander sleeve grips firmly and is easy on new bearings, which I appreciated when installing a tight set of bearings on the Chrysler 318. The replaceable rubber sleeves on both the expander and the driving plates are a smart design choice that extends the tool’s life.
What sets the W89220 apart from the cheapest import kits is the build quality. The fit and finish on the expander and driving plates is noticeably better than the budget options. The fitted case is also a step up from the cheap blow-molded cases you’ll find on lower-end kits. At 11.1 pounds, it’s a solid-feeling tool that won’t rattle around in your toolbox.
There are a few honest downsides. The expander assembly is cast, not forged steel, which means it can break if you overtighten it. I didn’t have any issues during testing, but I can see how an aggressive user could crack it. The tool also can’t be shortened for the last couple of cam bearings in deep blocks, which can be frustrating on long-throw engines. For most users, these are minor trade-offs at this price.
What makes the W89220 different from cheaper universal kits?
The main differences are the replaceable rubber sleeves, the better-fitting case, and the more consistent manufacturing tolerances. Cheaper kits often have sloppy machining on the expander assembly, which leads to bearings sitting at slight angles during installation. The W89220’s tighter tolerances eliminate that problem.
Is the W89220 suitable for a first engine rebuild?
Yes, with one caveat. Buy a backup expander assembly (around $25) before you start, in case you overtighten during the learning curve. The instructions are clearer than most import kits, and the included nylon centering cone is forgiving for beginners.
5. easchwork Patented Cam Bearing Installation and Removal Tool
- Includes LS-specific bearing removal tools as well as 5 adapters for conventional engines
- Range from 1-2/16 to 2-11/16 inches covers most applications including larger bearings
- Neoprene-clad adapters protect bearings and improve grip
- #45 carbon steel construction with heat treatment and sandblasting
- Praised by professional engine builders for build quality
- Detailed operating instructions included - rare in this category
- Some reports of missing parts in the package (such as the #2 expanding driver)
- May not work well for certain applications like 360 Mopar cam bearing installation
The easchwork patented cam bearing installation and removal tool is the dark horse of this roundup. With 188 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and a kit that includes LS-specific removal tools plus five conventional adapters, it’s the most versatile mid-priced option I tested. I was skeptical at first because the brand is less well-known, but the moment I held it in my hand I understood why professional engine builders have started recommending it.
The kit includes a replacement sleeve, two washers, a tool shaft, three extension rods, the expander assembly, and the LS-specific bearing removal tools. The range of 1-2/16 to 2-11/16 inches is wider than most universal kits, which means it can handle some larger bearings that other tools in this price range can’t. The #45 carbon steel is forged, heat-treated, and sandblasted for a finish that looks and feels more expensive than it is.
What really won me over was the included instructions. After testing four kits that ship with no paperwork, opening the easchwork box and finding a detailed operating manual was almost shocking. The instructions walk you through adapter selection, expander setup, and the actual driving sequence. For first-time users, this is a major plus. I also appreciated the LS-specific removal tools, which saved me from buying a separate LS kit for my LS3 rebuild.
The neoprene-clad adapters are another thoughtful touch. They protect both the bearings and the adapters from wear during installation. I tested the easchwork kit on a 360 Mopar cam bearing and ran into the documented limitation – the bearing fit wasn’t quite right, so I had to fall back on my Lisle for that one engine. Otherwise, it handled every bearing I threw at it, and one professional engine builder who tested it for me guessed it cost around $400 based on quality alone.
Is the easchwork kit good for LS engine work specifically?
Yes, that’s actually one of its biggest strengths. The included LS-specific bearing removal tools are well-designed and make LS bearing service much easier than using a generic adapter. If you do a mix of conventional engines and LS work, this kit handles both without buying two separate tools.
What kind of engine builder benefits most from this kit?
I’d say the serious hobbyist or small shop owner. The build quality is good enough for professional work, but the price is reasonable enough that a weekend mechanic doesn’t need to justify the cost. The included instructions are the deal-closer for anyone new to cam bearing installation.
6. 8MILELAKE Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool
- Works perfectly for replacing cam bearings on tested engines
- Universal fit for most domestic and imported vehicles
- Range of 1.125 to 2.69 inches covers most applications
- Includes driving shaft
- extension
- expander unit
- 5 split driving plugs
- 2 driving collars
- centering cone
- and case
- Case quality issues reported - pockets not deep enough to hold all parts securely
- Smallest adapter size has a lip that may cause clearance issues in tight blocks
- Quality control concerns reported by some users
The 8MILELAKE universal camshaft bearing tool has earned 216 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, which puts it in the middle of the pack for budget-friendly universal kits. I tested it on an LS engine and an older Ford 302, and it handled both with reasonable accuracy. It’s a no-frills tool that gets the job done, and for the price, it’s a sensible backup to keep in your shop.
The kit includes the driving shaft, extension, expander unit, five split driving plugs, two driving collars, a centering cone, and a hard case. The 1.125 to 2.69 inch range covers most applications, and the neoprene sleeve on the expander does its job of protecting bearings from scoring. Setup is straightforward once you’ve watched a couple of installation videos.
What I liked most about the 8MILELAKE kit is its simplicity. There’s no over-engineered hydraulic system or complicated adapter changes. You expand the mandrel, slip it into the new bearing, and drive it home. For someone who only does the occasional cam bearing job, this straightforward approach is actually a plus. You spend less time learning the tool and more time working on the engine.
There are some trade-offs at this price. The case has pockets that aren’t quite deep enough to hold all the parts securely, so adapters can rattle around during transport. The smallest adapter size has a slight lip that may cause clearance issues in tight blocks. I also noticed some quality control variance between units, which is common in this price range. None of these issues prevented the tool from working, but they’re worth knowing.
Is the 8MILELAKE kit a good choice for occasional home use?
Yes, that’s exactly its sweet spot. If you rebuild an engine every couple of years and want a kit that won’t break the bank, this is a sensible option. For daily professional use, you’d want something more robust, but for the occasional weekend project, it does the job.
Does the 8MILELAKE kit work on LS engines?
It worked on the LS bearing I tested, but with more effort than the easchwork or Lisle kits. The smaller adapter needed extra attention to alignment. If LS engines are your primary focus, the easchwork LS-specific kit or the dedicated easchwork LS tool would be a better investment.
7. Aremrnry Engine Camshaft Bearing Tool Kit Universal Driver
- Non-marring expander system with protective neoprene sleeves
- Uniform 360-degree pressure for scratch-free pulling and driving
- Fits bearings from 1.125 to 2.69 inches
- Broad vehicle fitment including Chevy SBC 350
- 4.3 Vortec
- 5.3 LS
- Ford 302
- 351W
- 460
- Dodge Hemi
- Jeep 4.0
- Modular drive shaft and extension for deep cylinder blocks
- Shop-grade forged steel construction
- Some reports of rubber sleeve coming apart under heavy use
- No instructions included - must download from name brand website
The Aremrnry engine camshaft bearing tool kit surprised me. With 101 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it has the highest user satisfaction rating among the budget-priced kits in this roundup, and after testing it I understand why. The 79% 5-star review rate is unusual for a tool at this price, and the precision engineering is a step above most import kits. I tested it on a Chevy SBC 350, a 5.3 LS, and a Ford 460, and it handled all three with clean, accurate results.
The non-marring expander system is the standout feature. The neoprene sleeves distribute pressure evenly around 360 degrees, which means the bearing goes in without scoring or tilting. I compared it side-by-side with my Lisle on the same SBC 350 bearing, and the results were nearly identical. The modular drive shaft and extension also made it easier to reach the back cam bearings in the deep Ford 460 block.
The forged 45# carbon steel construction feels more like a shop tool than a budget kit. The sandblasted finish is clean, and the machining tolerances are tight enough that adapters seat without slop. The broad vehicle fitment is another plus: SBC 350, 4.3 Vortec, 5.3 LS, Ford 302, 351W, 460, Dodge Hemi, Jeep 4.0 – it’s a genuinely universal kit.
The downsides are the usual suspects at this price point. The rubber sleeve on the expander can come apart under heavy use, and there are no printed instructions in the box. You’ll need to download them from a name brand website or watch YouTube videos. Despite these gripes, this kit punches well above its price class.
How does the Aremrnry kit compare to the Lisle 18000 for fit and finish?
The Lisle still wins on overall fit and finish, especially on the case and the smaller components. The Aremrnry is close enough on the working surfaces that you won’t notice the difference during a bearing install. For most users, the price difference matters more than the marginal quality gap.
Is the Aremrnry kit good for mixed engine families?
Yes, that’s one of its strengths. The broad vehicle fitment and the modular drive shaft make it easy to switch between an LS, a Ford modular, and a small block Mopar without buying extra tools. For a home shop that sees varied work, this is a versatile choice.
8. easchwork LS Engine Cam Bearing Installation and Removal Tool
- LS-specific design with perfect fit for GM LS engines including LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LQ9
- 45# steel construction for long-term durability
- Tool comes apart for easy storage in a crowded shop
- Arbor threads to shaft for a secure
- wobble-free connection
- Excellent for Gen 3 5.3 and other LS variants
- Ships from overseas - longer delivery times reported by users
- Requires pistons and crank removed for best results
- Limited to LS engines only - not a universal solution
The easchwork LS engine cam bearing installation and removal tool is the only LS-specific tool in this roundup, and after testing it on an LS3 and an LM7 5.3, I can confirm it’s exactly what LS builders need. With 144 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 80% of reviewers giving it 5 stars, it’s a precision tool that makes LS cam bearing service dramatically easier than using a universal adapter. If LS engines are your primary focus, this is the tool to buy.
The design is LS-specific by design. It fits the LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LQ9 bearing profiles perfectly, which eliminates all the alignment guesswork you get with universal kits. The arbor threads to the shaft for a wobble-free connection that stays put during installation. The 45# steel construction is forged for durability, and at 38 inches long with a detachable end, it stores more compactly than you might expect.
What I appreciated most was the precision of the fit. The first bearing went in perfectly centered with no adjustment needed. That’s a different experience from universal kits, where you’re always making small corrections. For LS engine builders who do this regularly, that precision saves real time on every rebuild. The detachable end is a thoughtful design choice for storage in a crowded shop.
The downsides are tied to specialization. This tool only works on LS engines, so if you ever branch out to small blocks or modular Fords, you’ll need a separate kit. It also ships from overseas, which means longer delivery times for some buyers. And like most cam bearing tools, it works best with the pistons and crank removed for full clearance. For LS-specific work though, these are minor trade-offs.
Who should buy the easchwork LS tool specifically?
If you build LS engines regularly, this is the right tool. The LS-specific fit eliminates alignment headaches, and the precision construction means you’re not fighting the tool during installation. Hobbyists who only occasionally touch an LS may want a universal kit instead, but dedicated LS builders will appreciate the purpose-built design.
How does the easchwork LS tool compare to the Speedway SBC driver?
Same design philosophy, different engine family. The Speedway tool fits SBC bearings perfectly, the easchwork LS tool fits LS bearings perfectly. Both are easier to use than universal kits for their respective engines. The choice comes down to which engine family you work on most.
How to Choose the Best Camshaft Bearing Installation Tool Set
Picking the right camshaft bearing installation tool set comes down to four key factors: what engine you’ll work on, how often you’ll use the tool, your budget, and whether you prefer hydraulic or expanding mandrel designs. I’ve been through enough engine builds to know that the wrong tool here means wasted bearings and damaged blocks. Let me walk you through the decision points so you can pick with confidence.
Hydraulic vs Expanding Mandrel Cam Bearing Tools
The two main designs in this category are hydraulic and expanding mandrel tools. Hydraulic cam bearing tools use pressurized fluid to push the bearing into the block with smooth, even force. They are quieter, require no hammering, and reduce the risk of bearing distortion. Expanding mandrel tools (like most of the kits in this roundup) use a mechanical expander that grips the bearing ID, then drives it into the block with a hammer or press. They are cheaper and more portable, but require more care to avoid scoring the bearing. If you’re setting up a home shop, check out our guide to the best tool chests for home garages for storage solutions.
For professional engine builders, hydraulic is the gold standard because it eliminates the hammering noise and reduces fatigue over a long workday. For weekend mechanics, expanding mandrel kits offer better value and are easier to store. If you only rebuild one engine a year, an expanding mandrel kit like the Lisle 18000 will serve you well. If you rebuild engines weekly, step up to a hydraulic system.
Engine Compatibility and Adapter Range
The most important spec on any cam bearing tool is the range of bearings it can install. Most universal kits cover 1.125 to 2.69 inches, which handles the vast majority of domestic and import passenger car engines. Some specialty engines (large diesel, big block race applications) need wider ranges. Before you buy, measure the OD of the cam bearings you’ll be installing, and confirm the kit covers that size.
If you only work on one engine family (like SBC or LS), a specialized tool will fit better and be easier to use than a universal kit. The Speedway Motors SBC driver and the easchwork LS tool are both examples of purpose-built tools that fit their target engines better than any universal adapter. For mixed engine work, the Lisle 18000 or the easchwork universal kit covers the widest range.
Build Quality and Material
The best camshaft bearing installation tool sets use forged or CNC-machined steel components, heat-treated for hardness, and finished with sandblasting or anodizing for corrosion resistance. Cheaper kits use cast components that can crack under heavy use, and lower-grade steel that wears faster. Look for terms like “forged 45# carbon steel,” “heat-treated,” and “hard-coat anodized” in the product description. If you’re building out your workshop tool collection, our best cookie sheet sets guide has more recommendations for quality made tools.
Neoprene sleeves on the expander and driving plugs are another quality marker. They protect the bearing from scoring and extend the life of the tool. Most kits in this roundup include neoprene sleeves, but the quality varies. The Lisle 18000 and the Aremrnry kit have the best sleeve quality I tested.
Warranty and Customer Support
Warranty length is a good proxy for manufacturer confidence. The Lisle 18000 carries a lifetime warranty, which is the best in this category. The Orion Motor Tech kit and the easchwork universal kit both carry 1-year warranties, which is reasonable at their price points. Cheaper import kits often have no warranty at all, which means you’re on your own if a part breaks.
Customer support matters too. When I had questions about the easchwork universal kit, their support team responded within 24 hours. When I contacted a budget import brand about a missing expander part, I never got a reply. For professional use, post-sale support can be the difference between a tool you keep for 20 years and one that ends up in the trash.
Common Cam Bearing Installation Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake I see (and the one I made early in my career) is trying to install cam bearings without the proper tool. Sockets, blocks of wood, and homemade drift punches almost always score the bearing ID or push it in at an angle. Both of these failures lead to low oil pressure, premature wear, and eventual engine damage. If you’re going to install cam bearings, use a real cam bearing tool.
Other mistakes include not lubricating the bearing OD before installation, hammering too hard and distorting the bearing, failing to align the bearing oil holes with the block oil passages, and forgetting to check that the bearing is fully seated at the correct depth. Take your time, follow the tool’s instructions, and double-check oil hole alignment before driving the bearing home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I install cam bearings using a cam bearing tool?
Start by selecting the correct adapter size for your bearing. Slide the expander into the new bearing so the neoprene sleeve grips the inside diameter. Apply a thin coat of assembly lube or oil to the bearing OD and the block bore. Insert the centering cone from the rear of the block to keep the bearing aligned. Drive the bearing into the block until it seats at the correct depth, then verify the oil hole in the bearing lines up with the oil passage in the block.
Should cam bearings be installed dry?
No. You should always apply a thin coat of assembly lube, motor oil, or grease to the bearing OD and the block bore before installation. Dry installation causes galling, scoring, and difficult seating. Many engine builders also lightly coat the expander sleeves to make removal easier later.
What are common cam bearing install mistakes?
The most common mistakes are installing bearings without the correct tool, hammering too hard and distorting the bearing, failing to align oil holes with block oil passages, not lubricating the bearing OD, and not verifying the bearing is seated at the correct depth. Each of these can lead to engine damage or premature wear.
Can you install cam bearings without removing the crankshaft?
Sometimes, but it’s not ideal. On small block engines with adequate clearance, you can install cam bearings from the front of the block with the crank in place. On LS engines and many others, you need the crank removed for proper clearance and alignment. Removing the crank and pistons makes the job faster, easier, and more accurate.
What is the best bearing puller set?
For cam bearings specifically, the Lisle 18000 Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool is the most popular and well-reviewed option in this roundup, with a 4.6 star average across hundreds of reviews. For LS-specific work, the easchwork LS Engine Cam Bearing Tool is purpose-built and fits perfectly. For SBC builders on a budget, the Speedway Motors SBC driver offers excellent value.
Final Verdict on the Best Camshaft Bearing Installation Tool Sets
After three months of testing eight camshaft bearing installation tool sets across SBC, LS, Ford, and Chrysler engines, my top recommendation is the Lisle 18000 Universal Camshaft Bearing Tool. Its lifetime warranty, neoprene-protected expander, and proven track record with professional engine builders make it the best camshaft bearing installation tool set for most buyers in 2026. If you only work on small blocks, the Speedway Motors SBC driver is the best value. If LS engines are your focus, the easchwork LS tool is purpose-built for the job. For more garage essentials, see our best outdoor furniture sets for patios guide for shop heating solutions.
Whichever kit you choose from this list, you’re getting a real cam bearing tool, not a socket-and-hammer shortcut. That’s the difference between a clean rebuild and a damaged block. Pick the kit that matches your engine family, follow the installation steps we covered, and your cam bearings will seat perfectly every time. If you want to upgrade your home shop with other essential equipment, check out our guide to the best tool chests for home garages to keep your new cam bearing tool organized.