Ford 5L1Z-6250-AA Camshaft

To check the camshaft lobe lift and see if there is any wear, one has to remove the valve cover, and the rocker arms but should retain the push rods. Rotate the number one piston to the top-dead-center on the compression stroke and install a dial indicator on the engine such that the plunger the pushes against the first pushrod. Rotate the crankshaft so that the pointer is zeroed on the dial indicator and then slowly turn the crankshaft, so the needle deflection indicates the maximum lift of the cam lobe. Document this magnification and perform the same for all valves and make sure the piston is at TDC on the compression stroke. After conducting the checks, they should be compared to the specifications; if the lobe lift is below the set figure, then a new camshaft is required. For removal, pull out push rods, valve lifters, timing chain and camshaft sprocket and then measure the camshaft end float using dial indicator. If the play is greater than the specifications, a new thrust plate must be fitted when replacing the part. The camshaft thrust plate and the balance shaft drive gear can be unscrewed with a T-30 Torx bit, while supporting the camshaft to avoid straining the bearings when pulling the shaft. Camshaft should be cleaned and examined for wear or damage after removal, to determine if the bearing journals are worn a micrometer can be used. Check the lobes for spoilage or wear; If the lobes are still okay and within Lift specifications the Camshaft can be reused. For the balance shaft, simply drive the thrust plate screws and pull of the shaft through the block; please remember this that if the thrust bearing faces are worn then they must be replaced by a mechanic. When reinstalling , put some grease on the journals and the thrust will be seen in the gear key way at 12 o'clock and should be torque to the thrust plate bolts. Before installing the camshaft ensure you lubricate the areas of the bearing journals and lobes as it is placed into position aligning it with the gear for the balance shaft. Grease the thrust plate to be used, properly align it and fix the bolts. Last of all, replace the lifters, pushrods, rocker arms, timing parts and covers, in the same manner, and change the oil and filtering before running the car.