
Cam Follower is a precision replacement part for the original Porsche cam-follower used in older 4-cylinder engines. It is intended to operate smoothly under valve train motion, providing reliable contact between camshaft and push-rod mechanism.
Fits:
Porsche 356 - All
Porsche 912
Diagram ref no 7
A cam follower is a small, hardened component that rides on a camshaft lobe and transfers the cam’s motion to the push-rod, lifter, or other valve train elements. In this application, the push-rod cam follower converts the rotating cam profile into linear motion, ensuring that valves open and close correctly. It must withstand high contact stresses, rotational friction, and lubrication demands while maintaining precise geometry.
Location: Engine top / valve train region, between camshaft and push-rod or lifter assembly.
Fits: Porsche 356 series and 912 engines (all years) that use push-rod overhead valve (OHV) layout.
Quantity: Typically 8 are used per engine (one per valve) in many Porsche 356 / 912 configurations.
Over time, cam followers wear, develop surface fatigue, or lose hardness, which can alter their contact profile. A worn cam follower leads to imprecise valve lift, increased wear of the cam lobe, noise in the valve train, reduced performance, and in extreme cases, damage to cam lobes or push-rods. Because the cam follower is a critical interface in the valvetrain, any deviation from correct shape or surface quality can lead to less efficient engine operation or failures.
When to replace:
• During an engine rebuild, especially whenever the camshaft or valve components (push-rods, lifters) are serviced or replaced.
• When valve train noise or knocking develops, which may hint at excessive follower wear or clearances.
• If you measure wear on the cam lobes or get unusually fast wear on the valves, replace the followers proactively.
• For preventive maintenance in classic Porsche engines, especially high-mileage or restored vehicles, replacing cam followers helps ensure longevity of the camshaft itself.
Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.
61610502803
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
- Porsche 911 1965-1968 2.0L / 912 SWB (F)
- Porsche 356 1950-55
- Porsche 356A 1955-59
- Porsche 356B 1959-63
- Porsche 356C 1963-65
- Porsche 912E 4CYL 1976