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.
Adjusting timing of camshaft(s) (B48 and B46 engine) (Cooper S and John Cooper Works)
Special tools required:
- 2 288 380
- 0 496 855
- 2 450 487
- 2 358 122
- 11 6 480
Preliminary work needed:
- Remove CATALYTIC CONVERTER
- Check TIMING .
The notes for CHECKING AND ADJUSTING THE TIMING must be strictly observed!
The notes on CHECKING AND ADJUSTMENT OF TIMING must be strictly observed!
If the crankshaft is disconnected properly, it is not possible to turn the engine forwards or backwards on the vibration damper!
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Dimension (x) = 56 mm.
Insert the special tool 2 288 380 up to dimension (X) into the dowel hole.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Special tool 2 288 380 correctly positioned.
The engine is located at the first cylinder at TDC.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Special tool 2 288 380 incorrectly positioned.
The TDC setting of the first cylinder has not been achieved.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Dimension (Y) = 66 mm.
Insert the special tool 2 288 380 up to dimension (Y) into the dowel hole.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Special tool 2 288 380 correctly positioned.
The engine is located at the first cylinder at TDC.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Special tool 2 288 380 incorrectly positioned.
The TDC setting of the first cylinder has not been achieved.
Release CHAIN TENSIONER (1).
Installation note:
A new chain tensioner and sealing ring must be installed.
Version 1
Use the reversible ratchet head (2) from special tool 0 496 855 with special tool 2 450 487 to release the central valve (1).
Version 2
Use special tool 0 496 855 to release the central valve (1).
Mount gauge (1) from special tool 2 358 122.
If necessary, turn the crankshaft a little using the special tool 11 6 480.
Mount the counter support (3) and loosen the VANOS central valve of the intake camshaft with the special tool 0 496 855.
If necessary, turn the crankshaft a little further using the special tool 11 6 480.
Mount the counter support (2) and loosen the VANOS central valve of the exhaust camshaft with the special tool 0 496 855.
Turn both camshafts to position.
The middle one of the three flat sections (1) on the intake and exhaust camshafts must point upwards.
Secure basic carrier (1) by screws (2) on cylinder head.
Position gauge (3) with recess on mounting flats of exhaust camshaft.
Secure basic carrier (3) by screws (5) on basic carrier.
Position gauge (4) with recess on mounting flats of intake camshaft.
Secure gauge (4) by screws (5) on basic carrier.
Install new chain tensioner.
Tighten chain tensioner (1).
Tightening torque 11 31 1AZ .
Tighten VANOS central valve of intake camshaft adjuster (1).
Tightening torque 11 36 1AZ .
Tighten VANOS central valve of exhaust camshaft adjuster (1).
Tightening torque 11 36 1AZ .
Remove special tools 2 288 380 and 2 358 122.
Crank engine with special tool 11 6 480 twice in direction of engine rotation.
Required follow-up work:
- Check TIMING OF CAMSHAFTS .
- Install the CATALYTIC CONVERTER .
- Fit CYLINDER HEAD COVER .
- Install FRONT RIGHT WHEEL ARCH PANEL .
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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.