How much bearing damage is too much

jsadamson said
I am thinking so. It’s my first cam swap and I read “don’t scratch the cam bearings” like 1000 times. Used a bolt and everything but that is like banging on sh&t damage

To install the cam with the engine out, first install the crank. Then I like to stand the block on its butt on 2×4s laid on their side. With the block level it is easy to drop the cam gently straight down without knicking a bearing. Then you can install the rod and piston assemblies while watching and guiding the rods over the crank.
I got used to this working on Detroit Diesel engines as the engine stand bolted to the side of the block. The 2×4s keep the crank off the bench so you can rotate it. Then I lay it on the main caps to bolt the engine stand bracket on to complete the assembly. Works for me but your results may vary.
For those saying run it, I disagree. Mechanical stuff and Murphy's law likes my *** too much to chance it. At this point and all that is being done, $150 is cheap insurance.