'Cams moved during timing belt installation'

Derry · Jul 17th, 2021, 22:44

On checking to make sure the cams are still aligned to the cam cover I noticed the exhaust cam had moved out a bit (see picture). Roberts says its ok to turn it clockwise to get them aligned. Just want to make sure its ok to do this. I just need to go back (anticlockwise) only a little, but is it advisable to go all the way clockwise or can I just go anti couple of notched.

pinballdave · Jul 18th, 2021, 08:42

It's fine to turn it anti-clockwise to get it back in alignment, as long as you don't turn it using a socket or spanner on the sprocket bolts, as this runs the risk of loosening them (hence the normal recommendation to turn it clockwise).

400-ascona · Jul 19th, 2021, 09:59

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinballdave

It's fine to turn it anti-clockwise to get it back in alignment, as long as you don't turn it using a socket or spanner on the sprocket bolts, as this runs the risk of loosening them (hence the normal recommendation to turn it clockwise).

Is it a good idea to move the cam wheel anything more than a small distance to get it re-aligned? If you wind a cam a full 358 deg without moving the pistons, isn't there a risk of contact?

However I do agree that using a single bolt to rotate counter clockwise would not be a wise move.

ITSv40 · Jul 19th, 2021, 11:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by 400-ascona

Is it a good idea to move the cam wheel anything more than a small distance to get it re-aligned? If you wind a cam a full 358 deg without moving the pistons, isn't there a risk of contact?

However I do agree that using a single bolt to rotate counter clockwise would not be a wise move.

If the crank was correctly positioned to renew the cam belt all the pistons will be halfway down the bores - rotating the camshaft will not allow the valves to contact the pistons. Given that the op's engine does not have VVT pulleys there is no reason not to turn the cam back a couple of teeth to align the marks.

Derry · Jul 26th, 2021, 17:17

Thanks for your replies, just to update I managed to turn it and get it aligned, the belt is on and after 350 miles mostly motorways, no problems.

Jul 26th, 2021, 17:17	#5
Derry Member Last Online: Jun 22nd, 2024 16:41 Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: NI	Thanks for your replies, just to update I managed to turn it and get it aligned, the belt is on and after 350 miles mostly motorways, no problems. __________________ 1996 P reg 850SE 2.0 N/A 10V Estate Auto, B5202S, Fenix 5.2 system

Jul 18th, 2021, 08:42	#2
pinballdave Member Last Online: Yesterday 11:17 Join Date: Nov 2017 Location: Brighton	It's fine to turn it anti-clockwise to get it back in alignment, as long as you don't turn it using a socket or spanner on the sprocket bolts, as this runs the risk of loosening them (hence the normal recommendation to turn it clockwise).

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