Camshaft Tools

In cars equipped with piston engines, a camshaft is used to translate circular motion to linear motion, which then rotates the crankshaft. The camshaft can be directly connected to the crankshaft with a gear mechanism, or it can be connected though the means of a timing belt. The camshaft is partly responsible for helping the valves to open and close at the correct times, which is crucial to proper engine function. The camshaft is made up of cams, or projecting spokes. Camshafts are generally the opposite of crankshaft devices, which operate by means of a crank, and thus translate linear motion to circular motion. This circular motion is then used to turn the wheels of the car. The camshaft can be positioned on top of the cylinders (overhead cam system). Depending on the type of engine, the camshaft can revolve simultaneously with the crankshaft, as in a two-stroke engine, or it can work at half the speed of the crankshaft, as in a four-stroke engine. In most modern engines, hydraulic lifters facilitate the process. To keep friction of the camshaft to a minimum, motor oil is generally necessary.When working with camshafts, a variety of tools may be required, including camshaft tools for installation, camshaft bearing removal and installation tools, bearing heads, camshaft checking fixtures (with cylinder heads off or on), stud adaptors, thread adaptors, dial indicators, and camshaft lobe indicators. Depending on the age of the engine, type of engine, and make and model of car, the right camshaft tools for the job may vary. If you are uncertain which type to purchase, it is a good idea to check with a reliable maintenance manual.