Camshafts

Camshafts

The camshaft is a crucial mechanical component of the valve train, allowing air and fuel to enter the combustion chamber of a diesel engine as needed and then move back out as exhaust gasses after they have burned. They are typically made from steel or cast iron and are usually located above the cylinders of an engine.

Modern internal combustion engines can include up to four camshafts with four valves per cylinder. The timing of the camshaft, crankshaft, and valve train directly influences the engine's RPM range and the power output of the vehicle.

How Does a Camshaft Work?

Camshafts work as timing devices, controlling the opening and closing of both intake and exhaust valves at the right times in a defined sequence. A camshaft is long and cylindrical in shape with lobes or cams that push on the valve lifters of a diesel engine and open and close the engine valves. The camshaft's movements are controlled by a crankshaft using gears, a timing chain, or a toothed belt.

How to Know When to Change a Diesel Camshaft

Diesel engines have so many different components and working parts that it is only a matter of time before some will need to be replaced. Standard parts such as filters, injectors, and gaskets will need to be switched out periodically. Still, more significant parts, including camshafts, may also fail with normal wear and tear or without proper maintenance.

A camshaft is crucial to the mechanical operation of an engine, and any major problems with it may prevent the vehicle from running properly or at all. A broken camshaft may also cause issues with other engine parts, such as the crankshaft, cylinder blocks, heads, valves, connecting rods, and pistons.

There are several factors that may be the cause of damage to the camshaft.

1. Not Enough Lubricant

Not applying enough lubricating oil to the camshaft and valve train can cause damage and operational failure. Damage can also occur if dirty oil is used for lubrication.

2. Mechanical Interference

A camshaft and valve train work with many mechanical parts in motion. The camshaft can break down if anything prevents the components from moving correctly.

3. Damage During Break-In

It is vital to follow break-in instructions carefully to ensure there is no damage to any engine parts. Improper installation of the camshaft can also lead to premature wear.

4. Overheating

High heat may cause the camshaft to warp or bend, leading to failure over time.

5. Improper Maintenance

All diesel engine parts need to be inspected and maintained regularly. If you’re not diligent with the maintenance, you may miss out on discovering potential problems. If you stay on top of maintenance, you can find these problems and service them early, before they become more serious.

There are some signs to look for that may indicate that a camshaft needs to be serviced or replaced. The most obvious sign may be that the Check Engine light comes on. There may also be issues with ignition and the engine starting up, which could indicate a faulty camshaft sensor. The sensor monitors the synchronization and turning of the camshaft and crankshaft. Other indicators that you may have a bad camshaft include backfiring and popping, loud tapping noises coming from the valves, or cylinder misfiring at high RPMs.

In a visual inspection of the diesel camshaft, ensure the part is not bent or warped but lays straight. When a camshaft bends, the moving mechanical components may not operate correctly and could damage other parts of the engine.

You should also take a look at the lifters. If there are any chips visible, it could indicate that there has been an excessive movement of the camshaft in the block. Check out the lobes or cams as well. Visible wear and pitting may alter the engine's fuel economy. If you think you may need a new camshaft, check with a trusted mechanic or supplier like Goldfarb & Associates.

Advantages of Using a Rebuilt Camshaft

Buying a rebuilt part rather than a new camshaft can provide the same high-quality performance as well as several other benefits to vehicle owners. The rebuilt camshafts sold at Goldfarb use components sourced from OEM suppliers and meet the highest standards and specifications. Rebuilt camshafts can be customized to fit the make and model of your vehicle.The advantages of purchasing a rebuilt camshaft include the following:

1. Cost-Effective

Rebuilt camshafts typically cost less than brand-new ones. This fact makes them a more cost-effective option when repairing or upgrading a diesel engine.

2. Environmentally Friendly

Reusing existing components instead of manufacturing brand-new ones can help reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

3. Customization

Rebuilding diesel engine parts allows the flexibility to customize them to meet vehicle performance needs.

4. Quality Guarantee

Rebuilt camshafts purchased through trusted suppliers such as Goldfarb & Associates have been tested, inspected, and restored to high-quality OEM standards.

5. Availability

With so many diesel engine parts in stock, the flexibility of considering rebuilt parts as well as new camshafts makes it easier to find just what you need right away. Rebuilt parts are often more readily available than brand-new options.

New, Used, and Rebuilt Camshaft FAQ

Q: Are used camshafts reliable?

A: While this answer may be dependent on the supplier, Goldfarb & Associates has a vast network of reliable rebuilders and guarantees their work. Each used and rebuilt camshaft will be inspected and tested before it is sold. With proper maintenance and care, our used camshafts will last for years.

Q: How long can a rebuilt camshaft last?

A: A well-rebuilt camshaft sold by a reputable supplier uses high-quality materials to produce a used part that can last as long as a new one. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and inspections, will help to expand the lifespan.

Q: What are some signs that a camshaft may need to be replaced?

A: Keep an eye out for signs of damage, such as any warping or bending of the camshaft itself and any chips or cracks visible in the lifters. Your Check Engine light may go on, or the vehicle itself may have trouble starting if there is a problem with the camshaft sensor. Excessive pitting or wear in the cams or lobes may also indicate a loss of fuel economy and that a more severe problem may be on the way.

Q: How does lobe separation affect a camshaft?

Camshaft lobes or cams on a standard V8 engine are arranged in pairs of one intake lobe and one exhaust lobe that are phased to each other. Lobe separation describes how intake valves react in relation to exhaust valves in a cylinder. The wider the degree of the angle between them, the longer the time between opening and closing. Lobe separation determines where peak torque occurs within an engine's power range. Tight lobe separation is under 112 degrees. Tight separation causes torque to build early in the RPM range, giving good acceleration. Wider lobe separation, around 112 - 116 degrees, sees torque building over a wider RPM range, creating more power as RPM increases.

Q: What should I look for in a camshaft replacement?

A: While the camshafts at Goldfarb have been properly inspected, used parts especially should be examined for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips. You should also ask about the rebuild process and any maintenance history with rebuilt and remanufactured parts.

Camshafts for Sale

Goldfarb & Associates has been supplying customers with high-quality diesel engine parts for over 20 years. In this industry, our name means everything, and we stand by our inventory of new, used and remanufactured products. Goldfarb & Associates has the know-how and experience to identify the right new or rebuilt genuine OEM camshaft for your vehicle.

With our vast network of rebuilders and manufacturers around the globe, Goldfarb & Associates can locate even the rarest of diesel engine parts. In addition, we thoroughly examine every camshaft that arrives or leaves the Rockville, Maryland headquarters.

By visually and physically inspecting and testing, we ensure that each camshaft meets or exceeds OEM standards. At Goldfarb & Associates, we understand that diesel engines are highly complex machines. We'll help you isolate the problem parts in your current engine and direct you to the replacement parts you'll need to get it back to like-new condition.

You can also count on free shipping to any U.S. destination and expert packaging so that your part arrives in mint condition. Explore our wide range of inventory online, or come to our Rockville, MD warehouse to find the camshaft you need in person.