Camshaft Sprockets

REMOVAL - CAMSHAFT SPROCKETS

CAUTION: The 3.5L engine is NOT a free-wheeling design. Therefore, care should be taken not to rotate the camshafts or crankshaft with the timing belt removed.

NOTE: The camshaft timing gears are keyed to the camshaft.

1. Perform fuel pressure release procedure. Service and Repair.
2. Remove front timing belt cover Timing Cover - Removal.
3. Position crankshaft sprocket to the TDC mark on the oil pump housing by turning crankshaft in the clockwise direction
4. Install a dial indicator in number 1 cylinder to check TDC of the piston. Rotate the crankshaft until the piston is at exactly TDC.
5. Remove camshaft retainer/thrust plate from rear of right cylinder head.




6. Remove the cylinder head covers.
7. Remove rocker arm assemblies.
8. Remove the timing belt tensioner and timing belt.




9. Loosen and remove the left camshaft gear retaining bolt and washer. The left bolt is 255 mm (10.0 in.) long.

NOTE: The camshaft timing gears are keyed to the camshaft.

10. Hold the left camshaft sprocket with 36 mm (1 7/16 in.) box end wrench.
11. Remove the left camshaft sprocket.




CAUTION: The right camshaft must be pushed rearward approximately 3 1/2 inches to remove the camshaft gear retaining bolt and gear. Care must be taken not to scratch or nick the camshaft or cylinder head journals when moving camshaft.

12. Loosen and remove the right camshaft gear retaining bolt and washer. The right bolt is 213 mm (8 3/8 in.) long.

NOTE: The camshaft timing gears are keyed to the camshaft.

13. Hold the right camshaft sprocket with 36 mm (1 7/16 in.) box end wrench and loosen the camshaft bolt.
14. Using a floor jack, raise the right side of the engine enough to allow clearance to remove the right camshaft bolt and washer.
15. Remove the right camshaft sprocket.