winter project

[BruceH]

I need a neighbor like you! Nice work

[Meir]

it has been almost 3 weeks since i finished my project, but couldn't find the time to update the thread.
i will post some impressions, to help those who follow.

so i will pick up where i left.
less then a week after my last post, i received my new bearing.
i put it in the freezer, connected to the installation tool (in a Ziploc bag)

next morning i jumped back in, put the engine at TDC and locked the pulley.
removed the lower cam plug on both banks and made sure the "groove" on the cam is seating vertically.



bank 1


bank2



just for additional reference, i marked the cam on bank 2 with a Sharpie, but i don't think it is necessary.

i installed the cam look tool on bank one, using a 6X10mm bolt i got from Ace.
this step is very crucial. i can definitely see how the tool can be installed without locking the cam.

MAKE SURE THE TOOL IS FULLY SEATED IN THE GROOVE.

[Johnny Danger]

Once again ! Why aren't there any good DIY'ers up here in New England ??

[Meir]

Originally Posted by Johnny Danger

Once again ! Why aren't there any good DIY'ers up here in New England ??

Let me know when you'r ready.
Can pack up the tools and jump on a plane.
Never been to massachusetts before

Disclaimer: ambient temperature must be at 70 degrees farenhite or above, for selected dates.

[Meir]

after checking myself 5 times, and making sure all is in place, i was ready to remove the old bearing.
started by removing the 2 tensioners.
the one that holds the IMS chain (seats horizontally next to bank 2):





second tensioner, from bank 1:






remove the center nut of the IMS cover, using a large screwdriver and 13 mm wrench:

[Meir]

removed 3 bolts from IMS cover:



twisted the cover clockwise, and used small pray bar to remove cover.
take your time and be gentle with it. it will come out.



once the cover is removed, remove the circle clip. put you finger in the center, to prevent it from falling inside the engine.



the bearing is ready to receive the removing tool.
i played with the center stud to check for play. non what so ever.

[Meir]

at this point, i wasn't sure if i was doing it right, but it worked, so i dont care.
the extraction tools comes with two studs.
i installed the short one on the bearing.



then the long one on top of it.



slide the removal tool with the washer and nut (hand tight).



as recommended by LN, i sprayed the surface between the washer and the tool with WD-40

[Meir]

for extracting the bearing, i wanted to have the best grip and torque i can get.
so i slide a 16mm wrench on the nut, and held the center bolt with a 13 mm socket.



holding the ratchet in my left hand and turning the socket clockwise, extracted the bearing with no effort at all. in fact, i was a littel bit sorpraised how easy it came out.



one of my fears, was to find out the IMS is not centered (based on other posts i read). i was happy to see it was perfectly centered, and i do not need to remove the third tensioner (a true PITA to remove).

[Meir]

here are some pics of the bearing on and off the tool.







removed the plastic seal. no grease, but also no play in the bearing.
in fact, it looks brand new after 77K.