Author Topic: Can the cam sprockets be replaced without engine removal? (Read 4259 times)

adam12hicks · « **on:** September 13, 2008, 10:14:25 AM »

Sorry if this is a ridiculous question... I had the valve cover off the ole M42 the other day and noticed the cam gears are very sharply pointed. More than I expected for a 130k engine (and I'm the second owner of the car.) I've replaced the lower oil pan seal, checked the upper pan bolts and everything is perfect. I have never seen any hints of metal or chain guide issues. I've also replaced the chain tensioner.

I had a wild ass dream that perhaps the chain tensioner could be pulled and maybe these cam gears could be replaced without a major overhaul.

I guess go ahead and tell me I'm nuts.

Thanks!
Adam

ak96ss · « **Reply #1 on:** September 13, 2008, 10:50:14 AM »

It can certainly be done, and it's not *really* a major overhaul, but it's a fair amount of work. You should also think seriously about replacing the guides and the other gears while you are in there.

KenC · « **Reply #2 on:** September 13, 2008, 11:18:31 AM »

It's possible to change the cam gears without taking off the thermostat housing

. Just loosen the upper timing cover and pull it back a little.

adam12hicks · « **Reply #3 on:** September 13, 2008, 11:27:55 AM »

Very interesting! So do you guys think it would be a good idea? I would have to expect that these sharp toothed gears mean there is extra play in the chain from wear. If this + the tensioner would buy me some miles before needing a chain replacement then I'll about it.

Another quick question since you guys were so gracious to answer quickly... can the 4 bolts on the cam gear be accessed with the valve cover off or does the crank need to be turned to position them for removal?

Now I need to go to REALOEM and see what I'm gonna need parts-wise...

batsbats · « **Reply #4 on:** September 13, 2008, 03:11:58 PM »

Quote from: adam12hicks;56641

Very interesting! So do you guys think it would be a good idea? I would have to expect that these sharp toothed gears mean there is extra play in the chain from wear. If this + the tensioner would buy me some miles before needing a chain replacement then I'll about it.

Another quick question since you guys were so gracious to answer quickly... can the 4 bolts on the cam gear be accessed with the valve cover off or does the crank need to be turned to position them for removal?

Now I need to go to REALOEM and see what I'm gonna need parts-wise...

brendan purcell's site has the p/n for all the necessary things for the overhaul. it's under maintenance, timing chain, and there's a link for the writeup at the bottom with the numbers.

adam12hicks · « **Reply #5 on:** September 13, 2008, 05:21:50 PM »

Thanks... is there a link to his site anywhere?

Frankie · « **Reply #6 on:** September 14, 2008, 12:47:49 AM »

http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/

adam12hicks · « **Reply #7 on:** September 14, 2008, 09:02:22 AM »

Thanks Frankie!