Camshaft Chain Guide Query

[eddohawk]

Hi there

In the process of reinstalling the camshafts and bearing caps. The camshaft chain has come off the lower sprocket and it appears that I would need to remove the camshaft chain guides to guide the chain back onto the sprocket. Assuming this is the right way to go about it I was wondering if there are any traps to watch out for in terms of reinstalling the camshaft chain guides?

Thanks heaps

Eddohawk

[fj1250]

From one who's made avery kind of mistake rebuilding engines, DON'T PANIC!

Start by loosening the bolt in the center of the cam chain tensioner.
Loosen the cam chain tensioner bolts evenly so the tensioner backs out of the cylinder evenly.
Cam chain should have slack, remove the cams.
Now you should be able to pull the front chain guide out of the engine.
This should give you enough slack to fish the chain back on to the crank.
Place the engine at TDC on the ignition timing plate.
Re-install the front chain guide, making sure it's in it's slot.
Pull the chain tight on the exhaust side and loop it over the exhaust cam and start tightening it im place.
It help to hold the cam in place with a wrench so it doesn't turn. (yeah, I know you need three hands for this)
Place the intake cam, push in the cam chain tensioner with your fingers to take up the slack.
Hold the intake cam with a wrench as you tighten it down.
Make sure your timing marks are in place.
Remove the center bolt from the cam chain tensioner and push the tensioner plunger all the way into the body.
Install the cam chain tensioner, install the spring and tensioner center bolt.
Check that your timning is correct by rotating the motor forward two turns and al the timing marks line up.
Torque all the bolts to correct tension.
Your ready to go.

Mike C

[eddohawk]

Thanks Mike theres a couple of good tips in there. My concerns regarding any potential issues in reinstalling the exhaust cam chain guide were a little paranoid I got the chain back on and the guide reinstalled fairly easily. My Clymers has just arrived so hopefully the manual,your advice and some info on other threads in here I'll be ok with my install.

[fj1250]

Glad I could help.
I've rebuilt dozens of Legends car motors as well as building a number for myself.
Been an FJ owner since '85, still have my original '84 (see newly posted pics)
It's in '85 colors due to a shunt with a car back in '91

Mike C

Post me with any FJ or motor questions you run into.