Note: When installing, use new camshaft seals, a new valve cover gasket, and a new timing belt. You will also need camshaft bearing cap sealant and bearing cap bolt thread locking compound.
Removal
1. On F3R engines, release the plastic cover from the wiring harness located between the intake manifold and the cylinder head. On F7R engines, remove the plastic cover from the right engine mount.
2. On F7R engines, remove the ignition coils as described in Chapter Engine electrical equipment.
3. Where applicable, disconnect the crankcase ventilation hose from the valve cover.
4. Loosen the valve cover nuts/bolts and remove the cover.
5. Remove the toothed drive belt as described in Section Removal, inspection and installation of the toothed drive belt.
6. Disconnect the wiring from the camshaft position sensor, then unscrew the mounting screws and remove the sensor housing from the cylinder head. Remove the sensor toothed ring and insulating plate from the camshaft.
7. Remove the camshaft timing gear, refer to Section Removal, inspection and installation of the toothed drive belt gear and tensioner mechanism.
8. Using a micrometer, measure the axial clearance of the camshaft and compare it with the value given in Specifications. This will determine the degree of wear of the axial pressure surfaces.
9. On F3R engines, mark the camshaft bearing caps so that each one can be installed in its original location and oriented correctly.
10. Gradually loosen the bearing cap or camshaft housing bolts until the spring pressure is completely released. Remove the bolts and bearing housing/cap (refer to the illustrations).
11. Note the position of the cam lobes of cylinder No.1 as a reference for installation, then lift the camshaft(s) with the oil seals.
12. Remove the tappets and washers on F3R engines. Record the thickness of all washers - this may be needed later if any of the valve clearances are incorrect.
Inspection
1. Inspect the camshaft bearing surfaces and cams for wear, corrosion, or scratches. Replace the camshaft if such damage is found.
2. Replace the camshaft seals each time they are removed. Lubricate the sealing lips of the new seals.
3. Inspect the camshaft bearing surfaces in the cylinder head and bearing caps or housing. If deep scratches or other damage are found, the cylinder head must be replaced.
4. Inspect tappets and washers for scratches, corrosion and worn areas. Replace as necessary.
5. On F7R engines, thoroughly clean the mating surface of the cylinder head and camshaft housing.
Installation
1. Lubricate the tappets and install them into the head in the same places from which they were removed. Install a washer of the required thickness on each tappet.
2. Lubricate the camshaft bearings. Position the camshaft with the seals on the cylinder head. The seals must be placed flush with the cylinder head mounting surfaces. The working surfaces of the cams must be oriented as noted before removal.
Caution: If the cam lobe surfaces are not oriented correctly, the valves may touch the pistons.
3. On F3R engines, ensure the dowel pins are in place and reinstall the camshaft bearing caps, applying sealant to the ends that contact the cylinder head. On F7R engines, install the camshaft fasteners with a new gasket or sealant.
4. Apply a few drops of seizing compound to the threads of the bearing housing/cover bolts. Install the bolts and tighten them evenly to the specified torque Specifications effort.
5. If a new camshaft is installed, measure the end clearance and ensure that it complies with the data given in Specifications.
6. Install the camshaft timing gear, refer to Section Removal, inspection and installation of the toothed drive belt gear and tensioner mechanism.
7. Install a new timing belt, refer to Section Removal, inspection and installation of the toothed drive belt.
8. Check and adjust valve clearances (f3R engines) as described in Section Checking and adjusting valve clearances (f3R engines).
9. Install the valve cover (with a new gasket if necessary). Connect the crankcase ventilation hose to the cover and install all components that were removed or disconnected.
10. Install the insulator plate and sensor gear, then install the camshaft sensor housing and tighten the mounting bolts securely. Connect the camshaft position sensor wiring.
11. On F7R engines, install the high voltage ignition coils as described in Chapter Engine electrical equipment.
12. Connect the battery.