Sunday, January 12, 2014

Engine almost together

Painting the block took longer than I thought it would, but it is done. The head is on. Last week I stayed home nursing a cold. Today I installed the new camshaft sprockets.

There is a trick to installing the timing chain not mentioned in the workshop manual.

  • Start by removing the  tensioner completely from the front cover. Be sure to remove the spring so it doesn't fall on the ground when you have your back turned. 
  • Install the sprockets just enough to turn the cams. 
  • Ensure the crank is nowhere near TDC and rotate cams until timing marks are slightly below front cover. 
  • Remove sprockets.
  • While ensuring the chain does not foul on anything, rotate crank (same direction it goes in) to roughly 30 deg before TDC. 
  • Ensure chain is not engaged on crankshaft sprocket.
  • Install exhaust sprocket. Snug bolt but do not tighten.
  • Rotate crankshaft to TDC and engage chain at crankshaft, check alignment of exhaust sprocket.
  • Install intake sprocket.
  • Install tensioner, adjust for 0.5 in. drop of chain between sprockets.
  • Rotate crankshaft a couple of turns and come up slowly to TCD. Ensure sprocket marks line up with top edge of front cover.
  • Torque sprocket bolts to 26 ft. lbs.

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