Camshaft Removal

Special Tools 

J 7872:  Dial Indicator Set

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .

Fig 1: Measuring Camshaft End Play
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
1. Measure the camshaft end play using J 7872:  set.
   • The production value is 0.050-0.114 mm (0.002-0.0045 in) and service limit is 0.20 mm (0.008 in).
   • Replace the camshaft or the camshaft thrust plate if the measured value exceeds the service limit.
Fig 2: Blocking Crankshaft From Turning
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
2. Block the crankshaft from turning with a wooden handle.
3. Loosen the camshaft gear bolt and leave the bolt finger tight.
Fig 3: View Of Camshaft Exciter Ring, Bolts & Thrust Plate Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
4. Remove the camshaft exciter ring bolts.
5. Remove the camshaft exciter ring.
Fig 4: Using Exciter Ring Bolt To Secure Spring Tension
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
WARNING: The two piece cam gear must be bolted together to prevent the spring tension from unloading upon removal. Additionally, the two piece cam gear must remain bolted together until it is re-installed to the camshaft and fully engaged to the crankshaft gear. Failure to do so may result in personal injury.
6. Align the threaded hole with a suitable tool and install an exciter ring bolt to secure the spring tension.
7. Remove the camshaft thrust plate bolts through the holes in the camshaft gear.
Fig 5: View Of Camshaft With Camshaft Gear Attached
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
8. Remove the camshaft with the camshaft gear attached.
Fig 6: View Of Camshaft, Camshaft Gear & Camshaft Thrust Plate
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
9. Remove the camshaft gear bolt and washer.
10. Remove the camshaft gear.
11. Remove the camshaft thrust plate.