Help! How do you set 3 chain cam timing?
 

I'm replacing the IMS shaft on a 3 chain engine (2003 3.2) after an IMS failure and need information on setting the valve timing when I put in the new shaft and new chains. There is plenty of information on the 5 chain, but I can not find information on the three chain. Anyone have information on the three chain engine?

What exactly is going on and did you mean to replace the IMS bearing? It is usually the case that people replace the bearing pro-actively, which will not require removal of the timing chains. If you have experienced a failure, then you are generally talking about a complete tear-down and rebuild.

I bought the car after an IMS failure at 120K miles. The IMS was taken out with the bearing
(common), but the rest of the internals are undamaged except or wear, so the path forward is replace anything worn along with a new IMS bearing and shaft and stick it back together again. A very cost effective way to buy a boxster if you have the technical information to re-assemble it, which brings me back to setting the camshaft timing. Do you know how to set it? There is plenty of information on the 5 chain, but not so much on the 3 chain engines.

Ever got a reply ?
 

I realize this thread's resurrected from the dead, but did you ever got a reply to your question ?

I'm rebuilding an M96.24 (3.2S 3 chains) and haven't much info on timing... Even the PET's wrong when it comes to parts related to chains, cams and guides !

Is this ever resurrected from the dead, but yes I did. The car is now my daily driver, rebuilt engine and all. Thanks for asking. Look at the 987 manuals for timing information. You essentially have a 987 engine in your 986.

James,

How can I find out if my engine is 3 chain or 5 chain? I have a 2004 Boxster (non S). If I call the dealer with the VIN can they tell?

Thanks.

Starting in 2003 all Boxster motors were 3 chains. The motor serial number just above the sump cover bottom passenger side of motor. The 5th number after M96, should be a 4 for a 2004 motor

I've a 2003 S, and it is a 3 chain. I have no information on 2003 non S so I can not provide information, but exemplifying the best on this forum jsceash has already provided the answer. Thanks jsceash! :cheers:

Thank you jsceash!

Is this the plate that gives the engine PN? If yes, I don't see a 4... What does that mean? Also can I find out from this if I have a dual row or single row bearing?http://986forum.com/forums/uploads01...1424824803.jpg

The serial number for the motor is just above the sump cover on the passenger side of the motor.

http://i1199.photobucket.com/albums/...ps99674d28.jpg


I believe all motors 2002 to the early 2005 have a single row IMS bearings

This is the block cover plate.