Camshaft(S) -Left: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: When the timing chain is removed and the cylinder heads are still installed, DO NOT forcefully rotate the camshafts or crankshaft independently of each other. Severe valve and/or piston damage can occur.

CAUTION: When removing the cam sprocket, timing chains or camshaft, Failure to use Special Tool 8350 will result in hydraulic tensioner ratchet over extension, requiring timing chain cover removal to reset the tensioner ratchet.

Remove cylinder head cover (Refer to ENGINE/CYLINDER HEAD/CYLINDER HEAD COVER(S)-REMOVAL ).
Set engine to TDC cylinder #1, camshaft sprocket V8 marks at the 12 o'clock position.
Mark one link on the secondary timing chain on both sides of the V8 mark on the camshaft sprocket to aid in installation.
CAUTION: Do not hold or pry on the camshaft target wheel (Located on the right side camshaft sprocket) for any reason, Severe damage will occur to the target wheel resulting in a vehicle no start condition.
Loosen but DO NOT remove the camshaft sprocket retaining bolt. Leave the bolt snug against the sprocket.
NOTE: The timing chain tensioners must be secured prior to removing the camshaft sprockets. Failure to secure tensioners will allow the tensioners to extend, requiring timing chain cover removal in order to reset tensioners.

CAUTION: Do not force wedge past the narrowest point between the chain strands. Damage to the tensioners may occur.

Fig 1: Securing Timing Chain Tensioners Using Timing Chain Wedge
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Position Special Tool 8350 timing chain wedge between the timing chain strands, tap the tool to securely wedge the timing chain against the ten-sioner arm and guide (Fig 1).
NOTE: When gripping the camshaft, place the pliers on the tube portion of the camshaft only. Do not grip the lobes or the sprocket areas.
Hold the camshaft with adjustable pliers while removing the camshaft sprocket bolt and sprocket (Fig 2).

Fig 2: Removing Camshaft Sprocket And Chain
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Using the pliers, gently allow the camshaft to rotate 15° clockwise until the camshaft is in the neutral position (no valve load).
Starting at the outside working inward, loosen the camshaft bearing cap retaining bolts 1/2 turn at a time. Repeat until all load is off the bearing caps.
CAUTION: DO NOT STAMP OR STRIKE THE CAMSHAFT BEARING CAPS. SEVERE DAMAGE WILL OCCUR TO THE BEARING CAPS.

NOTE: When the camshaft is removed the rocker arms may slide downward, mark the rocker arms before removing camshaft.
Remove the camshaft bearing caps and the camshaft.