73 454 camshaft thrust plate?

[johnathan]

When disassembling the engine I don't recall a thrust plate. Do I need to install one? I see the provision for something outside the cam ( two bolt holes). From what I've seen the thrust plate is just that, a plate with no provision for bolts? What would hold it in place and how would that prevent the cam from walking forward? Also I cannot find a stock replacement thrust plate anywhere.

 

[smalltruckbigcid]

they didn't come with one as I recall. The distributer keeps it from walking in a stock build

 

[4X4HIGH]

Most BBC's have the holes on either side of the cam bore for a thrust plate but unless it was a reverse rotation cam with factory gear drive a plate wasn't used.