In-Vehicle Repair: Camshafts: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Focus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: The crankshaft, the crankshaft sprocket and the pulley are fitted together by friction between the flange faces on each part. For that reason, the crankshaft sprocket is also unfastened if you loosen the pulley. Therefore the engine must be retimed each time the damper is removed. Otherwise severe engine damage can occur.

Remove the timing chain and sprockets. For additional information, refer to TIMING DRIVE COMPONENTS .
Remove the special tool.

Fig 1: Removing Special Tool (303-465)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Mark the position of the camshaft lobes on the No. 1 cylinder for assembly reference.

Fig 2: Identifying Position Of Camshaft Lobes
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Failure to follow the camshaft loosening procedure can result in damage to the camshafts.

Remove the camshafts from the engine.
- Loosen the camshaft bearing cap bolts, in sequence, one turn at a time.
- Repeat the first step until all tension is released from the camshaft bearing caps.
- Remove the camshaft bearing caps.
- Remove the camshafts.
  
  Fig 3: Bearing Caps Bolts Removal Sequence
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.