If the camsgaft really did seize in the block there are several reasons:
1) Oil blockage, as has been noted.
2) A warped cam.
3) Alot of dirt in the block where the cam spins
Other things to check: was the cam retaining plate (at the front of the
engine) fitted corectly? If this is bolted down to tight, it can bend,
especially if the builder put too much gasket sealant under the engine
front plate gasket. This gives about zero cam end thrust.
Most of the non-oil starved reasons should be evident as the engine would
bind when turned by hand. Although when it gets hot, things expand.
Chances are the block is toast. I'm sure you did not want hear that.
To fit cam bearings, the 1296 bearings fit right in the block of the 1500
and of course you need a 1296 cam with the smaller journals.
If the block has become damaged, the 1296 bearings will not fit well. You
may be able to remove some light scoring, but anything more will require
reboring these holes and obtaining or having specially made, new bearings to
fit oversized cam holes. Reboring the cam holes is a major job and must be
done VERY accuratly or you will mess up the geometry of the whole system.
It will probably be easier or cheaper to get a new or used block is yours is
not usable.
Keep us posted.
Cheers DW
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