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Wobbly cam lobe on new 6 BD C4

Original Post
Dylan Colon · · Eugene, OR · Joined Jun 2009 · Points: 501

I recently purchased a #6 Black Diamond C4 cam (the really big one). I was in a hurry at the shop and didn't inspect it too closely and noticed later that one of the inner cam lobes has quite a bit of play in it, like the axle hole is a bit too big. I can very easily (with almost no force) make it touch the adjacent lobe, while that is not possible with its twin on the other side.

I haven't climbed on the cam yet, but I was wondering if anyone has experience with this sort of behavior. My gut instinct is that it probably isn't a problem, but I've never seen that before so I thought I'd ask before using it.

I might be able to upload some photos/video later but I don't have the means right now.

EthanC · · Bay Area, CA · Joined Jun 2013 · Points: 253

That doesn't sound good to me. Contact black diamond or the store you purchased from (if that's easier and works), they'll probably replace it. If the cam lobe is wobbling that means it's contact area with the cam shaft is oversized or deformed, which decreases strength, could also contribute to cam instability and walking. No, it probably isn't a problem inasmuch as it will kill you, but since it's new, or even new-ish, why risk it? BD should replace it if the store doesn't.

Bill Lawry · · Albuquerque, NM · Joined Apr 2006 · Points: 1,821

Always seemed to me the bigger cams were wonky that way. All else being equal, the farther the contact surface is from the axle (bigger cams) the more side-to-side play there will be out there.

My #4 BD C4 lobes can touch if squeezed together at their farthest point from the axle (contracted some). If mine's normal (and I'm not worried), I'd assume larger ones would normally too.

Check it against other cams of same size? Ask BD if it is common / normal for the lobes to touch on this size can?

(Edit: Although the asymmetry you mention seems odd. Ask about that too and report back.)

EthanC · · Bay Area, CA · Joined Jun 2013 · Points: 253

My biggest cam is a #4 C4 and I can move the lobes a tiny bit, but it requires force and it is symmetrical. The #6 is quite a bit bigger so perhaps it's different. I'd just be concerned the hole in the lobe is deformed.

Jake wander · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Aug 2014 · Points: 195

i notice the same thing with my large bd cams. i think its normal, but dont hold me to that.

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Trad Climbing
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