Genuine 2007 Ford Focus Camshaft

2007 Ford Focus Camshaft Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove, inspect, and install camshafts and tappets in 2.3L and 2.0L engine on 2007 Ford Focus?

  A: Only turn the engine in the normal direction of rotation - clockwise from the right-hand side of the vehicle. Begin by removing the camshaft cover, then take out the timing hole plug and insert a timing peg to position the crankshaft at TDC, which can be obtained from Ford dealers or a tool supplier. Next, remove the timing chain and camshaft sprockets. Loosen the camshaft bearing cap bolts progressively by half a turn at a time to gradually release the pressure of the valve springs on the caps. Withdraw the camshaft bearing caps, noting their markings, and then remove the camshafts, identifying the intake camshaft by the reference lobe for the camshaft position sensor. Prepare sixteen small, clean containers numbered 1 to 16, and using a rubber suction cup, withdraw each bucket tappet in turn, placing them in the containers without interchanging them, as they are of different sizes. Record the thickness number under each tappet, as different sizes are available for wear or repair on the cylinder head assembly. With the camshafts and tappets removed, check each for signs of wear and replace if necessary. Measure the outside diameter of each tappet using a micrometer, taking measurements at the top and bottom, and at right angles; if any measurement is significantly different, the tappet must be replaced. If possible, measure the inside diameter of the corresponding cylinder head bore, and if either is excessively worn, new tappets or a new cylinder head will be required. Visually examine the camshaft lobes for score marks, pitting, galling, and evidence of overheating, replacing any components showing such signs. Check the camshaft bearing journals and the cylinder head bearing surfaces for wear or pitting, renewing any affected components. Measure the diameter of each journal at several points with a micrometer, renewing the camshaft if any measurement is significantly different. To check the bearing journal running clearance, clean all bearing surfaces, then replace the camshafts and bearing caps with a strand of Plastigage across each journal. Tighten the bearing cap bolts to the specified torque, then remove the caps and measure the width of the compressed strands to determine the running clearance. If any bearing is worn beyond specified limits, install a new camshaft and repeat the check; if clearance remains excessive, the cylinder head must be replaced. To check camshaft endplay, clean the bearing surfaces, replace the camshafts and bearing caps, and measure the endplay using a DTI mounted on the cylinder head. Tap the camshaft towards the gauge, zero it, then tap it away and note the reading; if the endplay is at or beyond specified limits, fit a new camshaft and repeat the check, replacing the cylinder head if necessary. For reassembly, liberally oil the cylinder head tappet bores and the tappets, ensuring each tappet is returned to its original bore. Turn the engine back approximately 45 degrees to avoid pistons at the top of the cylinders, then liberally oil the camshaft bearings and lobes before replacing the camshafts in their original locations. Each camshaft bearing cap has an identifying number and letter etched on it, with the exhaust camshaft's caps numbered E1 to E5 and the inlet camshaft's caps 11 to 15. Keep each cap square to the cylinder head while tightening the bolts slowly and progressively until each cap touches the cylinder head, then tighten to the specified torque settings in sequence. Fit the camshaft aligning tool to ensure the camshafts are in the TDC position, then replace the camshaft sprockets and timing chain without tightening the retaining bolts. Turn the engine approximately 45 degrees back to TDC, hold the camshafts in position, and tighten the sprocket retaining bolts to the specified torque. Remove the camshaft locking plate and crankshaft timing peg, then turn the engine two full turns, replacing the locking plate and peg to confirm the engine is still set at TDC. Finally, replace the timing chain cover upper and lower blanking plugs, coating the threads with a suitable sealant to prevent leaks, and replace the camshaft cover.