Camshaft
RB30E[edit]
Aftermarket camshafts[edit]
Camshafts which are still fairly mild (stage 1 or 2) are able to be run by the existing ECCS computer without any modifications. More aggressive camshafts will require machining of the lifter housings, and some kind of computer modification to get the most out of the camshaft by either replacing the program chip with a reprogrammed type for that camshaft, or replacing the computer with an aftermarket one. Obviously the second option is going to be more expensive but gives you the option to retune your system. Note that when replacing your camshaft you will either need to replace the lifters (of which there are 12, costing up to $70 each from Nissan) or get them reground, due to the different wearing with the old camshaft. This can increase costs significantly on top of a cam and chip package.
Fitting a new cam[edit]
The following information is from the Crow Cams website.
Remember the following points
- New lifters should always be fitted with a new camshaft.
- Coat the camshaft with a heavy duty anti-scuff lubricant.
NOTE: engine oil is not good enough.
- Check timing gears for wear and replace timing belt.
- New high performance valve springs should be fitted with a high performance camshaft. Springs should be inspected carefully and tested in a valve spring testing machine if they are to be used again, even with a stock replacement cam.
- For the best results high performance cams should be fitted in accordance with the settings listed on the cam data card.
- Prime oil filter and carburettor so that the engine will start instantly. Do not crank engine over to get oil pressure before starting, as it wipes off prelube.
WARNING. We strongly advise against the use of high volume oil pumps in street engines as the excessive load they provide causes premature failure of the oil pump drive gear.
Checking cam position[edit]
- Find top dead centre on the number 1 cylinder using a dial indicator. Mark this position with a pointer mounted on the flywheel or bolt to the front of the crankshaft.
- After setting the dial indicator to zero on the back of the cam inlet lobe, rotate the crank until the pointer indicates the piston has reached top dead centre.
- Read off the figure on the dial indicator and compare it to the figure shown for inlet lobe lift at T.D.C. on the cam data card supplied with the new cam. The figure shown on the cam data is a minimum and may be up to .005" more. Advance the camshaft to increase the lift at TDC retard the cam to decrease the lift.
The time spent dialling the cam will be rewarded with optimum performance and fuel efficiency.
How camshafts work[edit]
For more information on how camshafts work, visit "How Stuff Works"
Shopping Links[edit]