Get ready for my rookie mistake...

Replacing head gasket on '01 s40;

I didn't use the cam locking tool into position, also I did not align the markings on both gears (though I did "mark" them).

Also, I removed the VVT Gear from one camshaft and noticed it does not have a pin for position so basically it's free floating?

My question...

1. Once I get the head off of the vehicle what should my first step be in the engine back together; meaning, should I put the crankshaft mark in a specific location? Should I ensure one piston is TDC over the others?
2. When putting the head back on, and I am ready for the camshafts, how would I positon the camshafts so they are in proper position?

I read a thread recently and I believe it was similar, but I believe I may have made a large booboo on this starting with not aligning the gears first.

Additionally, where the tool is supposed to lock the camshafts into place from movement, a piece of the tab (probably the size of rice) chipped off... does this constitute an imbalance of the camshaft?

Please send input.

Thank you

 

You have to acquire the locking tool, no question about it.

 

I am working on getting one now. thanks!

 

Aligning the crankshaft on it's mark is not actually Top Dead Center. TDC is not a factor in non-distributor engines. In this engine aligning the mark positions all 4 pistons down away from the valves. Now you can removed the timing belt without fear of valve to piston contact.

 

The marks on the pistons? Meaning align all of the pistons as far down as they will go as well as the shaft mark there at the bottom?

 

I'm saying when you align the mark on the crank gear with the mark on the block the pistons are down in their bores to avoid valve contact when changing the timing belt.

 

Ah okay! So just to make sure, is it possible to be 180 degrees out on this engine?

 

It's not possible to be 180 degrees out on any engine. Just an old wives tale.

 

Thank you.
I will align the marks and proceed!

 

There is a crank shaft locking pin you can use so it is set where it needs to be, then using the cam locking tool you should be right where you need to be. The Crank Shaft locking pin goes in a hole back near the transmission. I think this process is required when pulling cams. I got my locking set new off of eBay for $50=) also comes with crank lock.