How to test Variocam Solenoid Valves

[whitecliffs]

Ive got misfire codes for bank 4 to 6 and lumply idle, had look on the web and posts link to possible variocam failure.
Is there anyway of testing the variocam solenoids while the engine is in the car, ive tested the connectors to both solenoids and theres 12v there with the ignition on.
So with them both disconnected i started the engine and while ticking over i reconnected each one and in both cases there was no change in the engines tick over note, is this right.
Also with the engine off and ignition on should i be able to hear any clicking noise
when i reconnect the solenoids.
My plugs are new and coil packs less than a year old and i don't have a Durametric

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by whitecliffs

Ive got misfire codes for bank 4 to 6 and lumply idle, had look on the web and posts link to possible variocam failure.
Is there anyway of testing the variocam solenoids while the engine is in the car, ive tested the connectors to both solenoids and theres 12v there with the ignition on.
So with them both disconnected i started the engine and while ticking over i reconnected each one and in both cases there was no change in the engines tick over note, is this right.
Also with the engine off and ignition on should i be able to hear any clicking noise
when i reconnect the solenoids.
My plugs are new and coil packs less than a year old and i don't have a Durametric

Durametric, PST II, or PIWIS will do it.

[jb92563]

I think the variocams don't kick in until some rpm which I don't recall, maybe around 3500?

Testing at idle will not trigger them and at 3500 you will not be able to hear the solenoid. You will need a diagnostic tool.

[whitecliffs]

Found a post on planet9 site telling how to test with a smiple lead and with having a spare wiring loom i was able to make a lead to apply voltage to the solenoids one at a time, first off without the engine running to hear them click and then again with the engine ticking over to hear a change in the engine note when actuated.

I found i had no click on the solenoid on bank 4-6, so order a new one
bank 1-3 was fine clicked when tested with the engine off and heard the engine
note change when actuated with the engine ticking over

[jb92563]

Good find!

For others searching on this could you provide the link or a wiring diagram?

Can you get at the solenoids with the engine in the car?

[Gelbster]

Whitecliffs,
Glad to read your excellent diagnosis. What a change to read a simple diagnostic procedure instead of one with expensive tools and cryptic readout numbers !
A link to the test procedure on Planet 9 would be very useful!