Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Unit: Installation
Left hand units
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NOTE: The VCT units have 2 timing marks on them, a triangle and a circle. For installation of the LH side the circle marks are used.
- Install the VCT units. The circle timing marks on the VCT units will be at the 10 o'clock (intake) and 12:30 (exhaust) positions as shown in the illustration.
- Install the new VCT unit bolts.
Torque : Stage 1: 30 lb.ft (40 Nm) | Stage 2: Loosen: 360° | Stage 3: 37 lb.ft (50 Nm) | Stage 4: 90°
- Remove Special Service Tool: 303-1248 Camshaft holding tools.
- Install the LH timing chain. Refer to: Timing Chain
Right hand units
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NOTE: The VCT units have 2 timing marks on them, a triangle and a circle. For installation of the RH side the triangle marks are used.
- Install the VCT units. The triangle timing marks on the VCT units will be at the 2 o'clock (intake) and 11 o'clock (exhaust) positions as shown in the illustration.
- Install new VCT unit bolts.
Torque : Stage 1: 30 lb.ft (40 Nm) | Stage 2: Loosen: 360° | Stage 3: 37 lb.ft (50 Nm) | Stage 4: 90°
- Remove Special Service Tool: 303-1248 Camshaft holding tools.
- Install the RH timing chain. Refer to: Timing Chain
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.