Topic: Cam replacement on 22RE

[snowrun]

I bought a new cam for my 22RE. I have read an article that says it is possible to replace the cam without changing the headgasket, just be sure to drain the entire block of coolant & be careful, etc. Has anyone had success with this? Any tips/pointers to prevent FUBAR?

[olivedrab85]

I tried it and failed. I would probably just put the HG in , it sucks to get your cam in one day and then have to do a headgasket the next. 

[kneedownnate]

You can't do it successfully unless you're an egyptian magician.  You have to take out the head bolts to get to the cam keepers, so you've just broken the seal on the gasket.  You're going to be far enough into it that you may as well put in a new gasket, and you can get them from a group hookup (sticky at top of general 4wd section) for a decent price.  Just don't use a felpro (ask me how I know)

[79coyotefrg]

DO NOT USE FELPRO

Toyota,  or Rock Products


 MLS ONLY

[kneedownnate]

Who makes rock products?  Your buddy over at enginebuilder uses them exclusively.  Ever bought head bolts from him, or his full engine gasket kits.

[snowrun [OP]]

Thanks for the info! I guess I'll just grab a top end set and head bolts from enginebuilder.

[79coyotefrg]

ive always bought from there website  rockproducts.com

[854RUN]

I did it, and did not have a problem you just need to be careful and don't brake the seal on the head gasket.

[olivedrab85]

How many miles have you put on it, my buddy did this and it only lasted like 6k before it blew.

[854RUN]

I got 25k to 30k on mine no problems, I must have gotten lucky. It was on a new motor that had around 4k miles on it, that might be why i got away with it

[kneedownnate]

Thanks for the info! I guess I'll just grab a top end set and head bolts from enginebuilder.

Check his prices, but check for his sets on ebay too.  He offers a full engine gasket kit, top to bottom, for $55 or so.  I got quoted over $70 for just a head gasket set from napa!

[snowrun [OP]]

I wonder if possible to use ratchet straps to hold the head down on the block via the frame while changing..... Might work but a little side pressure & I'm sure she would break loose. Might try that but have the gasket set ready.

[turtle jim]

You Can Do It. Ya just gotta be careful. Set it on TDC and take the spark plugs out. Remove the cam sprocket. Remove the headbolts, and carefully remove the rocker arms and stand. No need to remove the "hidden" bolt. It will hold everything in place for ya. Cut half inch pipe the same length as the height of the rocker stands and bolt the head back down using the pipe for spacers. Now you can safely change the cam. Clean the headbolt holes one at a time. Replace the headbolt and spacer after cleaning. Assembly is the reverse. Put the cam sprocket back on ONLY after the head is retorqued.
Don't forget to drain the coolant first.

turtle jim

[olivedrab85]

After all that wouldn't it be just about as easy to just change out the head gasket. Also a good opertunity to inspect the head and valves? 

[snowrun [OP]]

Thanks! Good idea on the pipe, I would assume its not too hard to find an extra long shafted tap to reach through the head. Do you then blow the holes out with an airgun? Any tips on getting the rocker assy. to break free from the head without cracking the HG seal? It seems like the last one I took off needed a little "persuasion" to release. Not sure which way I'll go yet.....

[turtle jim]

I don't like usin a tap to clean the headbolt threads in the block. Often removes too much metal. Instead take a hacksaw or a file and cut a notch lengthwise across the threads in an old headbolt. Use it to clean the threads. Use starting fluid or equivilent to insure CLEAN threads in the block. Blow dry with airgun. Reassemble with plenty of never sieze on the threads. Use never sieze under the bolt heads. That will reduce friction when retorqueing and give more clamping force for the same torque. You're on you're own for removing the rocker arm assembly. I've never had a problem with it.

turtle jim

[rage]

go the extera mile to inspect head/cylinders and put in head gasket for piece of mind.