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Camshaft replacement at Route 66 Auto Repair in Upland is the answer when a cam lobe is worn flat or a journal is scored and the shaft cannot be reused. A worn cam leaves the valve it drives barely opening, which causes a steady misfire and lost power. We confirm the wear, show you photos, and replace the cam with the parts that ride on it, because worn followers ruin a new cam quickly.
How do we confirm a camshaft needs replacing?
A worn lobe shows up as a cylinder with a misfire that does not follow coils or injectors, and with low compression that a leak-down test says is not from a leaking valve or rings. With the valve cover off, we measure lobe lift with a dial indicator on each rocker or follower and compare the readings across cylinders. A short one stands out.
Metal flakes in the oil, a scored journal, or a cam that broke after a timing failure also mean replacement. The early testing is covered on camshaft repair.
What gets replaced with the camshaft?
If the lifters are the only problem, see engine valve lifter replacement. Timing parts are inspected while they are off, and worn ones are quoted as a separate line, as explained on timing belt replacement.
- Lifters or followers, which wear into the lobe profile
- Cam seal on engines where the cam exits the head
- Valve cover and timing cover gaskets opened during the job
- Cam bolts that are designed for one use
- Oil and filter to remove metal debris
Our camshaft replacement process
Step 1: Measure lobe lift
Dial indicator readings confirm which lobe is worn.
Step 2: Remove timing and cam
Timing components come off with marks recorded, then the camshaft comes out.
Step 3: Inspect journals and bores
Cam journal surfaces in the head or block are checked for scoring.
Step 4: Install with assembly lube
The new cam and followers go in coated with the correct lubricant.
Step 5: Time, start and break in
Timing is set and verified, then the engine is started following the break-in steps.
What's included in camshaft replacement
Included on the work order
- 01Lobe lift measurements on record
- 02New camshaft
- 03New lifters or followers as listed
- 04Required gaskets, seals and bolts
- 05Oil and filter change
- 06Timing verification and road test
Need-now or need-later?
Need now: call
- A worn lobe causing a misfire, which can damage the catalytic converter
- Metal debris in the oil
Need later: book
- Light lobe polish marks with normal lift, rechecked at the next service
How pricing and timing work
Overhead cam engines often allow the cam to come out from the top. Cam-in-block engines may need more removed to slide the cam out the front. Parts availability can add a day. Your written estimate shows every step, and AAA members save 10% on parts and labor, up to $75.
Aftercare
Older flat-tappet designs need a specific break-in and an oil with the right additives, which we write down for you. Return for the first oil change on the date we give you.
Frequently asked questions
Why replace lifters with the camshaft?
Lifters wear to match the old lobes. Putting worn lifters on a new cam can wear the new lobes quickly. New followers protect the new cam.
What causes a cam lobe to wear flat?
Low oil, overdue changes, the wrong oil for the design, or a failed lifter are common causes.
Can I drive with a worn cam lobe?
It will run, but the misfire wastes fuel and can overheat the catalytic converter. Plan the repair soon.