Variocam Issue?

[blue62]

Originally Posted by freserf

Here is another symptom maybe you can help me with ... I am still not quite sure how this variocam system works. When are the solenoids activated? Does the actuator float under oil pressure when the solenoid is not activated? The reason I ask is this ... I just unplugged bank1 solenoid and now I can rev and idle without the timing chain noise as I experienced earlier. But, I still have bank1 misfires on all cylinders without the P0341.

I'll probably swap coils this weekend to rule them out for the misfire.

I am guessing that the solenoids are active from engine on to about 2800 rpm's or when demand is high? I read somewhere about the basics of the variocam system, but nothing detail related to when it is active.

Thanks for the input ... it is always helpful to learn from others.

If I understand the system correctly: When the solenoid activates it exposes oil ports which allows oil pressure to force the Variocam actuators outwards against the cam chains. Thus changing cam timing. I think this happens at around 1500-1800 RPM then it kicks back out around 5000 RPM.

If you do a search here on the forum I think you could find a more detailed explanation then the very brief one I have given. You should also be able to find the precise RPM range that the system operates in as well.