Instructions for DIY Cam locking tool

LASteve · Post by **LASteve** » 25 Jan 2013, 11:49

Back to my favorite place for everything Volvo!

Friends, I've been following this awesome tutorial for replacing the headgasket on my XC, but I am stuck due to the CVVT cam. (I haven't removed the belt yet since I don't want things to go awry) I've read Lee's post regarding VVT timing, and I am ready to move forward.

I can't seem to find anything that shows how to make the Cam locking tool.

I went to vegasjetskiers post here, but the links have long expired.
Any help would be well received!

Also, why is getting the turbo out such a monster pain???

Post by **erikv11** » 25 Jan 2013, 12:10

I know the Haynes manual describes how to make a tool to lock the cams from the rear. What about the traceystruesoaps tutorial, the granddaddy of them all, anything in there?

LASteve · Post by **LASteve** » 25 Jan 2013, 12:17

I don't have access to a printed Haynes (the website doesn't even cover Volvos anymore??)
Tracy's has a great description, but I don't think it will allow for the high torque limits that need to be applied once the cams go back on.

Post by **erikv11** » 25 Jan 2013, 12:39

Not sure what you mean about high torque limit? Is that a VVT thing? The basic tool is only used to reassemble the cams with the top cover. Doesn't need to be super beefy material, I've used one made from perforated metal strips. If you need to hold the cams in place after that, you could slip a thicker bar through the slots, I suppose.

I sent you a PM.

Post by **JDS60R** » 25 Jan 2013, 12:43

If you are taking off the VVT you will need strong stock as the torque is 90ft lbs. If you are just aligning the cams you can use light stock or just make sure the slot in the cams is level with the head gasket surface.

I usually remove the vvt to replace the seals and use a home made tool made of 90 degree 3/8 stock with tabs bolted through it. The intake cam is a little higher than the exhaust if I remember correctly.

LASteve · Post by **LASteve** » 25 Jan 2013, 12:44

From what I've read, When timing the VVT, one needs to tighten the hub to 89 ft/lbs. I feel like some
Steel shims on a wood lock might bend. Not something I'm willing to risk.

LASteve · Post by **LASteve** » 25 Jan 2013, 12:45

Correct JD. I plan on inspecting seal, so I want to be ready to go.

Post by **cn90** » 25 Jan 2013, 12:50

Go to hardware store and buy some angle iron.

http://volvospeed.com/vs_forum/topic/12 ... king-tool/

Another photo:

: 100_1046.jpg (93.16 KiB) Viewed 15825 times

bw77 · Post by **bw77** » 25 Jan 2013, 13:51

Check out the youtube videos by robinsonsauto.

http://www.youtube.com/user/robinsonsauto/videos?view=0

His latest one on fabricated tools includes the cam locking tool he made when he replaced the head
gasket on a 99 S70GLT. He made a series of 4 videos for the head gasket job.

He might even be willing to make the tool for you, can't hurt to ask.

LASteve · Post by **LASteve** » 25 Jan 2013, 18:33

Cheers again to all of you, and this website in general.
I ended up making a heavy duty version of the Tracy's method using 1/4" ply and some thick steel inserts.
Cams didn't move a cm.