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Removing Cam Driving Gears

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by Futureman, Jun 3, 2008.

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  1. Futureman

    Futureman Formula 3

    May 16, 2007
    2,024
    #1 Futureman, Jun 3, 2008
    I need to replace the cam seal o-rings and the cam gear seals on my '89 328. Any tips for removing the cam gears? Particularly, keeping the cam shafts from pushing valves into pistons.
     
  2. yelcab

    yelcab F1 World Champ
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    Nov 29, 2001
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    Mitchell Le
    #2 yelcab, Jun 3, 2008
    I assume you also want to check the valve clearance, if so, take the cam shafts out and put it in a vise. Then use a air wrench.
     
  3. Futureman

    Futureman Formula 3

    May 16, 2007
    2,024
    #3 Futureman, Jun 3, 2008
    *sigh* I was afraid that was going to be the answer.
     
  4. 350HPMondial

    350HPMondial F1 Veteran
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    #4 350HPMondial, Jun 3, 2008
    Yes,
    put in vice with soft jaws or hard wood jaws.
    Crank air up to 100 #
    Use a very nice impact wrench.
    (A cheepo can ruin everything, and still not get that nut loose.)
    Pray to Enzo, shut eyes,, pull the trigger.

    Edwardo
     
  5. RGigante

    RGigante F1 Rookie
    Owner Project Master

    Nov 1, 2006
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    #5 RGigante, Jun 3, 2008
    You don't have to remove the cam gears to replace the seals, but you do have to remove the cams. Been there, done that ...
    If you're checking valve clearances, do it before removing the cams (of course!), take good note of the measures, remove the cams, replace any needed valve shims and replace the seals and o-rings. Then put the cams back in place ...
     
  6. PerryC07

    PerryC07 Karting
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    May 30, 2008
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    Mobile, Al
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    Perry C
    #6 PerryC07, Jun 3, 2008
    +1

    You do not have to remove the gears at all. Make sure you use caution and note the line up marks so that reinstallation can go without an issue.

    Eitherway, take your time and take mental notes, or literal, so that the reverse procedure goes smoothly. Theres no worse feeling that doing this job then having to adjust timing to sustain a good idle. Best of luck and if needed, feel free to shoot a pm for assistance.
     
  7. eulk328

    eulk328 F1 Rookie

    Feb 18, 2005
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    #7 eulk328, Jun 4, 2008

    I wore thick leather gloves (work gloves) and got the pulleys off with an impact wrench while holding the camshaft. No drama at all. I preferred that method to a vice.
     
  8. Futureman

    Futureman Formula 3

    May 16, 2007
    2,024
    #8 Futureman, Jun 4, 2008
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    I have to remove the gears in order to replace the small o-ring (#31) in the diagram. I agree, the larger cam o-ring and cam seal can be replaced without removing the gear from the camshaft if I remove the camshafts.
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  9. 350HPMondial

    350HPMondial F1 Veteran
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    #9 350HPMondial, Jun 4, 2008
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    Richard,

    While they are off,,, get some of these from Scott.
    Re-work front cover,

    Remove that crappy harmonic balancer,,,
    and get one of my Aluminum pullies...
    (Currently in production.)

    Ciao,
    Edwardo
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  10. Futureman

    Futureman Formula 3

    May 16, 2007
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    #10 Futureman, Jun 4, 2008
    Those would be nice, but not this go around. Too much other stuff to do.
     
  11. Brian Harper

    Brian Harper F1 Rookie
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    #11 Brian Harper, Jun 4, 2008
    I replaced that o-ring without removing the gears. It is under the washer under the bolt head. That bolt can be removed with the cam and gear in place. Be sure not to use the cam belt to hold the gear in place when applying pressure to remove the belt.
     
  12. PerryC07

    PerryC07 Karting
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    May 30, 2008
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    #12 PerryC07, Jun 4, 2008
    Last edited: Jun 4, 2008
    Hey Rich

    As Brian mentioned this can done without moving the cams and gears themselves. I see that you are also in Alabama. If you would like give me a ring sometime and we can talk further. Im in Mobile, and always available to assist a fellow 'Bam-ian. Weather you contact me or not, we need to get together sometime.

    On that note, you have a PM with information you use as needed.

    Best of luck.
     
  13. Futureman

    Futureman Formula 3

    May 16, 2007
    2,024
    #13 Futureman, Jun 9, 2008
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    OK, I guess it's possible to R&R all those o-rings and seals without taking the cams out, but it sure was easier with them taken out. Of course taking the cams out without removing the gears. In hindsight the way we did it was not the best....who knows....maybe my valves survived. If not, then I guess I get to pull the engine and pop the heads off. Just adds to the educational experience. Here's a shot of me after we got the cams out. The look you see is called "shell shocked". My mechanic friend was laughing at me and decided to snap a photo. I'm glad he thought it was funny. I was too busy still visualizing how far the cam marks had moved. Mommy.
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