Valve Train Analysis

The following component tests are used to diagnose valve train concerns.

Valve Train Analysis - Engine Off, Valve Cover Removed 

Check for damaged or severely worn parts and correct assembly. Make sure correct parts are used with the static engine analysis as follows.

Valve Train Analysis - Camshaft, Camshaft Roller Followers and Hydraulic Lash Adjusters 

• Check for broken or damaged parts.
• Check for loose mounting bolts on camshaft caps.
• Check for plugged oil feed in the camshaft roller followers, lash adjusters or cylinder heads.

Valve Train Analysis - Valve Springs, Valve Spring Retainer and Valve Spring Retainer Keys 

• Check for broken or damaged parts.
• Check for correct seating of the valve spring retainer key on the valve stem and in valve spring retainer.
• Check for correct seating on the valve stem.

Valve Train Analysis - Valves and Cylinder Head 

• Check for plugged oil drain back holes.
• Check for worn or damaged valve tips.
• Check for missing or damaged guide-mounted valve stem seal.
• Check for collapsed hydraulic lash adjuster.
• Check installed valve spring height.
• Check for missing or worn valve spring seats.
• Check for plugged oil metering orifice in cylinder head oil reservoir (if equipped).

Valve Train Analysis - Camshaft Lobe Lift 

Check the lift of each camshaft lobe in consecutive order and make a note of the readings.

1. Remove the valve covers.
2. Remove the spark plugs. Refer to ENGINE IGNITION - 4.6L (2V) article.
3. Install the Dial Indicator Gauge with Holding Fixture so the rounded tip of the dial indicator is on top of the camshaft lobe and on the same plane as the hydraulic lash adjuster.
4. Rotate the crankshaft using a breaker bar and socket attached to the crankshaft pulley retainer bolt. Rotate the crankshaft until the base circle of the camshaft lobe is reached.
Fig 1: Checking Lift Of Camshaft Lobe
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
5. Zero the dial indicator. Continue to rotate the crankshaft until the (1) high-lift point of the camshaft lobe is in the fully raised position (highest indicator reading).
6. To check the accuracy of the original dial indicator reading, continue to rotate crankshaft until the (2) base circle is reached. The dial indicator reading should be zero. If zero reading is not obtained, repeat Steps  1 through  6.
7. If the lift on any lobe is below specified service limits, install a new camshaft and camshaft roller followers.
8. Install the spark plugs. Refer to ENGINE IGNITION - 4.6L (2V) article.
9. Install the valve covers.