If you’re not familiar with what a camshaft is, it’s the part of your engine responsible for opening and closing the valves.
Over time, camshafts can become worn or damaged, leading to reduced performance or even engine failure. But don’t worry, with a little know-how, replacing a camshaft is a repair that you can do yourself. Let’s dive in.
Briggs and Stratton Camshaft Replacement
The steps involved are the following, which I will explain one by one.
- Gather necessary tools and equipment
- Prepare the work area
- Remove the engine from the mower (if necessary)
- Remove the valve cover and rocker arms
- Remove the camshaft gear
- Remove the camshaft
- Install the new camshaft
- Install the camshaft gear
- Reinstall the rocker arms and valve cover
- Reinstall the engine onto the mower (if necessary)
- Check for proper operation
- Address any issues that may arise
Alrighty then, let’s talk preparation.
Preparation
Before you get started on replacing the camshaft on your Briggs and Stratton engine, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Socket wrench set: You’ll need a variety of socket sizes to remove the valve cover and camshaft gear.
- Torque wrench: This tool will be used to properly tighten the camshaft gear bolt.
- Camshaft removal tool (if required): Some engines may require a specific tool for removing the camshaft.
- New camshaft: Of course, you’ll need a new camshaft to replace the old one.
- Clean workspace: Make sure you have a clean and well-lit area to work in. This will help you avoid losing any small parts or causing damage to your engine.
- Room to work: You’ll need plenty of space to maneuver around your engine as you work.
If your engine is attached to a mower or other equipment, you’ll need to remove it before beginning.
This will give you easier access to the engine and prevent any damage to your equipment during the repair process.
Check your owner’s manual for instructions on safely removing the engine from your equipment.
Once you have all your tools and equipment gathered and your workspace prepared, you’re ready to get started on replacing your camshaft.
Disassembly
Alrighty, folks! It’s time to start disassembling your engine to remove the old camshaft. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:
- Remove the valve cover and rocker’s arms: Start by removing the bolts holding the valve cover in place, then carefully lift off the cover. Next, remove the rocker arms, which will allow you to access the camshaft.
- Remove the camshaft gear: Use a socket wrench to remove the bolt holding the camshaft gear in place. Take care not to damage the gear teeth or lose any small parts.
- Remove the camshaft: With the gear removed, you should be able to gently pull the camshaft out of the engine. Take care not to damage any of the other components in the engine as you remove the camshaft.
Once you’ve removed the old camshaft, you’ll be ready to move on to the next step:
installing the new camshaft. But before we get there, be sure to carefully inspect all the parts you’ve removed for any signs of damage or wear.
This is a good opportunity to replace any parts that may be worn or damaged, which will help ensure a successful repair.
Assembly
Alright, y’all, we’re ready to move on to the assembly phase of replacing your Briggs and Stratton engine’s camshaft. Here’s what you need to do:
- Install the new camshaft: Carefully place the new camshaft into position in the engine block, making sure it’s properly aligned. Take care not to force the camshaft into place, as this can cause damage to the engine.
- Install the camshaft gear: Slide the camshaft gear onto the new camshaft, taking care to align the gear teeth with the camshaft. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolt holding the camshaft gear in place to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Reinstall the rocker arms and valve cover: Once the camshaft gear is securely in place, you can reinstall the rocker’s arms. Take care to tighten the bolts holding the rocker arms in place to the manufacturer’s specifications. Finally, replace the valve cover and tighten the bolts to the recommended torque.
- Reinstall the engine onto the mower (if necessary): If you removed the engine from your mower or other equipment, now is the time to safely reinstall it. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on properly reattaching the engine.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Briggs and Stratton engine should be good as new with its new camshaft installed.
But before you fire up your engine, it’s important to test it to make sure everything is running smoothly. Read on to the next section to learn more.
Testing to Ensure
Now that you’ve installed your new camshaft and reassembled your engine, it’s time to test it to ensure everything is working as it should.
Here’s what you should do:
- Check for proper operation: Start your engine and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. Make sure your engine is running smoothly and performing as expected. You should also check for proper oil pressure and any leaks.
- Address any issues that may arise: If you notice any issues during your testing, don’t worry! It’s not uncommon to encounter some issues after making repairs to an engine. You may need to troubleshoot the issue to identify the root cause. Consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips or seek professional help if you’re not comfortable making further repairs yourself.
If everything checks out during your testing, congratulations. You’ve successfully replaced your Briggs and Stratton engine’s camshaft.
With proper maintenance and care, your engine should continue to run smoothly for years to come.
Remember to keep up with regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, to keep your engine in top shape.
FAQ
Q: Can you replace a camshaft without removing the engine?
A: Generally, replacing a camshaft requires the removal of the engine from the equipment or vehicle. The camshaft is typically located within the engine and is interconnected with various components that necessitate disassembly for replacement. It is recommended to consult the specific engine’s manual or seek professional assistance for camshaft replacement.
Q: Can you replace a camshaft yourself?
A: Replacing a camshaft is a complex task that often requires advanced mechanical knowledge and specialized tools. It is not a recommended DIY project for most individuals. Engine components are intricate, and improper installation of the camshaft can lead to further damage or engine malfunction. It is advisable to seek the expertise of a qualified mechanic or engine specialist for camshaft replacement.
Q: How do you remove a camshaft?
A: Removing a camshaft involves several steps and varies depending on the specific engine model. Generally, the process involves:
- Disconnecting the battery and draining the coolant, if necessary.
- Removing any necessary components obstructing access to the camshaft, such as the valve covers, timing belt or chain, rocker arms, pushrods, and lifters.
- Detaching the camshaft retaining bolts or caps and carefully sliding out the camshaft from the engine block.
- Ensuring all related components are properly labeled and organized for reassembly.
It is essential to consult the engine’s manual or seek professional guidance for precise instructions tailored to your specific engine model.
Q: How do I know if my camshaft is bad?
A: A faulty or damaged camshaft can exhibit various symptoms. Here are a few signs that may indicate a bad camshaft:
- Poor engine performance: Reduced power, rough idling, or difficulty starting the engine.
- Unusual noises: Knocking, ticking, or tapping sounds coming from the engine.
- Misfiring: Cylinder misfires or irregular engine firing patterns.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: A drop in mileage due to compromised engine operation.
- Check Engine Light (CEL): Illumination of the CEL on the dashboard may indicate camshaft-related issues, although it could also point to other problems.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to have your engine inspected by a qualified mechanic or engine specialist. They can diagnose the issue and determine if the camshaft requires replacement or if there are other underlying problems contributing to the symptoms.
To Recap
Make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment on hand before beginning, and prepare your workspace to avoid any accidental damage to your engine.
