I was just reading in the latest issue of Car Craft (Dec. 1999 pg. 39) that early model big block 396 motors have camshafts with a special groove machined into the camshaft journal to ensure proper oiling. I am about to replace my existing cam with a Comp Cams Xtreme energy 268 grind, and I was told by Comp cams that this camshaft does not have the groove. Is it necessary to have this groove, and if so, would a machine shop be able to cut it? What would happen if I were to run a camshaft without it? Any response would be greatly appreciated.

This is straight from my Archives :
Grooved Cam Journal Caution
'65-'66 big-blocks require a grooved rear cam journal and a grooved rear cam bearing. The combination was used to provide valve lifter oiling on these early models. If you are building a '65-'66 block, you must use a grooved cam to ensure an adequate oil supply to the lifter galleries. I would think a good machinist could cut the groove.