Valve Train: Camshaft

The camshaft is machined from nodular iron. Nodular iron combines many advantages including good castability, excellent machinability, wear resistance, and weight savings.

The camshaft consists of 5 bearing journals and three valve lift lobes per cylinder. The camshafts are identical for both derivatives. The intake side uses one rocker per valve, while on the exhaust side a single rocker operates both valves.

A machined recess in the cylinder head next to the Number 5 camshaft journal controls the camshaft end float.

Fig 1: Camshaft And Rocker Arms

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Camshaft Journal

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The camshaft retaining pedestals support both rocker shafts.