Bill, I don't think I've ever heard a reason or explanation of why the grooves weren't machined on those blocks, when so many had been done that way, and continued to be in other blocks? Is there a reason to make such a change that required special bearings and grooved cams? I'm wondering why not cut the grooves while it's apart and then just use normal cam bearings and not have to deal with it again? Must have been a good reason for the change?

Nothing wrong with stone machines, just takes some maintenance. I have a Souix oil machine that came from a heavy equipment shop that was used for D7, D8 CAT stuff, so had a big supply of stones made up that were pretty close for my favorite performance engine. The other is a Black & Decker that came from a Harley shop and included a lot of cutters for trimming guides for seals etc, and a bunch of guide tooling. Got the Souix diamond stone trimmer with each, so pretty easy to make up stones for oddball sizes and seat angles

Maybe because Jim Dove became seriously ill and passed away

I saw one at Turlock about 15-20 years ago, it was NOS and the guy wanted $500. That thing was HUGE inside

Joe, what is your opinion of the factory TW verses the Dove version? I have heard that the Dove is larger inside- better or worse? I have a Dove that came off a V-drive boat, and has two 660's with 2" spacers- spacers may have been for looks considering the boat history? Thanks!

I like the Isky's, nicely made and pretty tough. I bought the set that is still on my Galaxie in 1977, hardly ever have to adjust them, they hold their adjustment very well

I have a couple sets of factory caps if you get serious about it