Alignment of cam notches in P2 engines?

[jrschwit]

I think I know the answer but just confirming from those more experienced. Are the two notches on the rear end of the cams supposed to be parallel (notches in both cams directly aligned with each other) when locked in place for cam alignment while setting VVT timing, replacing timing belt, etc.?

It seems to me they are from seeing photos of commercial cam setting tools sold by IPD and others. I have a modest machine shop and made a workable alignment tool 10 years ago for my '02 2.4T V70. But I now am faced with doing some more work to it and a second V70 so I'd like to make a more robust tool. And, yes, I could afford the expense of a commercial tool but I enjoy the satisfaction of making my own.
Jim

[jonesg]

I would look at the end of the cams after setting the front alignment marks and copy to fit.
adjust them both so their centerlines are the same.
you'll find the intake cam notch is higher than the centerline.
the exh cam notch is below the centerline.

the tool has these same notches and only fits one way.
despite that asymmetry a peice of angle iron will work because its only function is to prevent rotation when cranking the hub bolt and ensuring proper orientation, (intake notch higher than exh notch.)

[jrschwit]

jonesg - Thank you. Appreciate the reminder of the offset notches. The method you describe of setting the front alignment marks is what I used. Then locked the cams into position with the homemade tool to accommodate the torque of bolt loosening/tightening. Your answer jogged my memory; but I was brand new to Volvos then, and just followed published procedures.

From further reading, I understand that the notches on the rear end of the camshafts serve as the cam setting datums. I will fabricate a more refined locking tool that sets the notches parallel with each other, allowing for offsets.
Jim

[cn90]

Sure you can make the locking tool. Info in forum.

I used a commercial tool with good review.
I wrote a very detailed DIY for my 2007 S60 VVT hubs, cam seals etc etc in this forum.

[jonesg]

I think I know the answer but just confirming from those more experienced. Are the two notches on the rear end of the cams supposed to be parallel (notches in both cams directly aligned with each other) when locked in place for cam alignment while setting VVT timing, replacing timing belt, etc.?

i shot a quick vid with measurements.

[cn90]

You can buy the CTA brand tool for about $60 (used on eBay) or $110 new,

For the used tool, use it, then resell it on eBay for the same amount.

[dikidera]

Just be careful with the no name tools. I had to add additional washers to the bolt that goes in the camshaft as they were a tad bit too long and could not torque down enough to hold the tool tight enough, Additionally the center screw that pulls both cams together does not fit in the hole correctly(a slight offset due to improper machining of the tool)so some stripping of the thread can happen.

[erikv11]

The bolts that came with my cheap cam tool were made of cream cheese. So I replaced them but it doesn't give you a lot of confidence.

You're much better off fabricating your own than buying one on eBay, if you are so equipped.

[cn90]

I used the CTA brand. Very good tool.

[jrschwit]

cn90 - I found your excellent and comprehensive post from July 2022 after I made my post. Very helpful, thank you.
jonesg - Thanks for the clarifying video.

Appreciate the comments about the quality of tools available for cam locking. The inconsistency of quality is a significant reason that I plan to make my own tool. The verification that the cam notches are parallel, though offset, has given me the confidence to proceed. Thanks to all.
Jim