- How to Change a Cam with the Engine in the Car
- Safety First
- Tools and Materials
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. Remove the valve covers
- 2. Remove the timing cover
- 3. Remove the timing chain or belt
- 4. Remove the camshaft bolts
- 5. Remove the camshaft
- 6. Install the new camshaft
- 7. Install the camshaft bolts
- 8. Install the timing chain or belt
- 9. Install the timing cover
- 10. Install the valve covers
- 11. Reconnect the negative battery terminal
- 12. Start the engine and check for leaks
- Tips
- Conclusion
How to Change a Cam with the Engine in the Car
Changing a camshaft is a complex and time-consuming task, but it can be done with the engine still in the car. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to do it.
Safety First
Before you start working, it’s important to take some safety precautions.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Allow the engine to cool completely.
Tools and Materials
You will need the following tools and materials to change a camshaft:
- Camshaft
- Camshaft bolts
- Timing chain or belt
- Timing cover gasket
- Valve cover gasket
- Socket wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Magnetic pickup tool
- Flashlight
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to change a camshaft with the engine in the car:
1. Remove the valve covers
Locate the valve covers on the top of the engine. Remove the bolts that hold them in place and lift them off.
2. Remove the timing cover
Locate the timing cover on the front of the engine. Remove the bolts that hold it in place and lift it off.
3. Remove the timing chain or belt
Locate the timing chain or belt on the front of the engine. Use a socket wrench to loosen the tensioner and remove the chain or belt.
4. Remove the camshaft bolts
Locate the camshaft bolts on the front of the engine. Use a socket wrench to remove them.
5. Remove the camshaft
Carefully lift the camshaft out of the engine. Be careful not to damage the camshaft lobes or the bearings.
6. Install the new camshaft
Carefully insert the new camshaft into the engine. Be sure to align the timing marks on the camshaft with the timing marks on the engine.
7. Install the camshaft bolts
Tighten the camshaft bolts to the specified torque. Use a torque wrench to ensure that the bolts are tightened correctly.
8. Install the timing chain or belt
Install the timing chain or belt on the front of the engine. Use a socket wrench to tighten the tensioner.
9. Install the timing cover
Install the timing cover on the front of the engine. Tighten the bolts that hold it in place.
10. Install the valve covers
Install the valve covers on the top of the engine. Tighten the bolts that hold them in place.
11. Reconnect the negative battery terminal
Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
12. Start the engine and check for leaks
Start the engine and check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, you have successfully changed the camshaft.
Tips
- Use a magnetic pickup tool to retrieve any dropped bolts or nuts.
- Use a flashlight to inspect the camshaft and bearings for any damage.
- If you are not comfortable changing a camshaft yourself, take it to a mechanic.
Conclusion
Changing a camshaft is a complex and time-consuming task, but it can be done with the engine still in the car. By following these steps, you can successfully change the camshaft and get your car back on the road.
