crizq0

Tried searching but there seems to be mixed opinions on this regarding the 1998 LS400.

I was replacing the timing belt and water pump. Set the crank to 50deg TDC. Removed the belt and it was time to install the new belt.

Tried rotating LH cam to reduce some of the slack and the bolt loosened. Tried retightening the bolt but the cam slipped/jumped and rotated clockwise an additional 30-45deg. Tried rotating it back CCW but had some resistance. I ended up having to rotate the cam CW to get it back to where it was before. Did it a couple of times actually because I missed it the first time. I rotated the RH cam CW once as well.

I ended up getting the belt on rotated the crank two revolutions and everything was in sync.

The moment of truth, it was time to start the car and it worked perfectly! Had some strange noise at first but I think it was the water pump? Had to add additional coolant as the resevoir declined.

So, in case I decide to tackle this job again in the future, whats the verdict? With timing belt off, can you just turn the RH or LH cam clockwise as much as you want?

fixmiester

No one can answer until you tell us what year you have.

crizq0

Sorry, it is a 1998 LS400.

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

looks like you answered the question.... but I would state it as:
So, in case I decide to tackle this job again in the future, whats the verdict? With timing belt off, can you just turn the RH or LH cam clockwise as much as you want? ( How about as much as necessary)

randal

crizq, I think you got your answer already. If you were able to rotate each cam fully CW without the valves hitting any pistons(you did not 'force' the cam, did you?) then there was clearance. This is precisely why Lexus tells you to set the crankshaft at 50 ATDC...for the clearance.

And BTW, the 'bolt' on the camshaft is not THE bolt on the camshaft. It is just a 'cap' of sorts and is easily loosened as you found out. If you unscrew that cap fully off, you will discover the 'real' bolt behind it. I was fooled by that as well until someone pointed it out. You are actually supposed to use a special cam pulley tool (SST..special service tool) to move the cam sprocket.

crizq0

That is great to hear! I was lucky and did not have force it.

I read about the cam pulley tool but it was late and was unable to go get one or rent one.

This install was a lot of fun and I will be more prepared the second time around, whenever that will be.


Billydpowe: For next time i will remember to just turn the RH or LH cam clockwise as much as necessary and not just for fun.