# Camshaft Replacement in Upland

> Camshaft replacement in Upland for worn lobes or damaged journals. We replace the parts the cam works against and explain break-in in writing.

Source: https://route66autorepairshop.com/engine-services/camshaft-replacement  
Updated: 2026-09-17  
Business: Route 66 Auto Repair, 1775 W Foothill Blvd, Upland, CA 91786, (909) 608-7699  
Hours: Monday to Friday 8 AM–5 PM, Saturday 8 AM–2 PM, Sunday closed

**TLDR:** A worn cam lobe causes a **steady misfire**. We replace the cam with its **lifters or followers** and follow a written **break-in procedure**.

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](https://route66autorepairshop.com/engine-services/camshaft-repair).

## What gets replaced with the camshaft?

If the lifters are the only problem, see [engine valve lifter replacement](https://route66autorepairshop.com/engine-services/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](https://route66autorepairshop.com/engine-services/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

1. **Measure lobe lift:** Dial indicator readings confirm which lobe is worn.
2. **Remove timing and cam:** Timing components come off with marks recorded, then the camshaft comes out.
3. **Inspect journals and bores:** Cam journal surfaces in the head or block are checked for scoring.
4. **Install with assembly lube:** The new cam and followers go in coated with the correct lubricant.
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

- Lobe lift measurements on record
- New camshaft
- New lifters or followers as listed
- Required gaskets, seals and bolts
- Oil and filter change
- Timing verification and road test

## Need-now or need-later?

**Need now:**
- A worn lobe causing a misfire, which can damage the catalytic converter
- Metal debris in the oil

**Need later:**
- 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.

---
Call (909) 608-7699 or visit https://route66autorepairshop.com/contact for a written estimate.