Cam cover removal

Post by **BlackBart** » 14 Sep 2018, 15:34

I had to use some washers under the cam lock bolts so they wouldn't bottom in the holes. Also, if that center allen bolt on the tool isn't snug, the cams can rotate relative to each other. That keeps them in line.

Cupojoe710 · Post by **Cupojoe710** » 17 Sep 2018, 17:58

I'm having trouble accessing the exhaust cam. There is a hard black rubber/plastic cover on the back of the cam where I need to put the lock tool, how do I remove it?

Cupojoe710 · Post by **Cupojoe710** » 17 Sep 2018, 17:58

Also, once I have the lock tool in place, how do I remove the cam cover? It's on there pretty good lol

Post by **prwood** » 17 Sep 2018, 18:51

The black plug is a metal-plastic “blank” that covers the rear of a camshaft that doesn’t have a camshaft position sensor (no VVT hub on the other end). To remove it you pierce it with a screwdriver and pry it off. It’s not meant to be reused so you’ll have to buy another one. They’re only $3 or so.

Post by **prwood** » 17 Sep 2018, 18:58

Cupojoe710 wrote: ↑17 Sep 2018, 17:58 Also, once I have the lock tool in place, how do I remove the cam cover? It's on there pretty good lol

This part is fairly detailed, so you’ll want to refer to BlackBart’s or my threads about our cam cover sealing jobs. I’m mobile right now so I can’t find them but may be able to hop back on later.

Basically, after the cams are locked, there are 40+ bolts on top of the cam cover that need to be removed. Then there are a few pry points around the edges where you can lever a 3/8” extension bar to pry it off. It can be stuck pretty tight with the existing sealant.

Cupojoe710 · Post by **Cupojoe710** » 17 Sep 2018, 19:26

I got through it with a little screwdriver, but I've been trying to pry it off for several minutes now lol also the screwdiver I was using to pry now has engine oil on it. I'm assuming I need a new cam seal.

Post by **BlackBart** » 17 Sep 2018, 20:36

No, that's normally got oil inside I think. Mine doesn't have that, but all videos Ive seen show oil dribbling out. I think you should always do new seals unless they've been changed recently.

Bigger screwdriver, give it a yank!

Cupojoe710 · Post by **Cupojoe710** » 17 Sep 2018, 20:39

I appreciate the advice! This is a crazy engine to work on.

Post by **BlackBart** » 17 Sep 2018, 21:38

Try this link - go to steps #56 & 57 for the pry points and bolt order. A 3/8 extension does fit pretty well between the tabs built in to the cover. A few taps with a dead blow hammer here and there. Then lift it straight up, not one side or the other.
It's an 850, but the steps are similar.
http://atthetipwebs.com/technologyinstr ... gasket.htm

This is just the timing belt, but this FCP guy is pretty thorough and careful. I don't like all the air gun use, but those guys have to do this fast.

Good PCV system steps here...

Post by **abscate** » 18 Sep 2018, 04:34

Oil behind the cam cover plug is normal and drains through a weep hole back into the engine. My volvo dealer had this in stock when I did my Timing belt

Finger tight only on the cam lock tool. Don’t even put a wrench on it.

Cam cover removal

Re: Cam cover removal