The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 236 Camshaft removal?

OK,I've torn down my GMC 236 to install new gaskets and I've come to an area I'm unsure of. To get the front engine motor mount off, which is also the back of the timing gear cover, you have to remove the camshaft. It appears the only thing holding it in is the oil pump? It doesn't look like the whole pump assembly comes off? There is what looks like a bolt with a jam nut on it, does that release the assembly? Any tips would be appreciated,Thanks.

The oil pump does not need to be removed- - -just pull the distributor and the fuel pump. The flat tang below the distributor gear drives the oil pump. If you're changing the gasket behind the front plate, you'll need to remove both timing gears, or remove the lower timing gear and pull the cam. Make sure to keep track of the lifters and put them back in exactly the same order they came out- - -they MUST run on the same cam lobe once a wear pattern has been established. If the engine has much mileage on it it's a good idea to install new timing gears while you've got it apart. The timing gear must be pressed on and off the cam and the thrust plate behind the gear is pretty fragile- - -be careful that you don't break it while swapping gears.
Jerry

Thanks for the advice. Now to go out and put it to use!

Hy Straightjacket, one more thing that I didn't see mentioned was the camshaft retaining screws that are behind the camshaft gear, you can access the screws if you rotate the crankshaft until the two holes in the camshaft gear line up with the screws which are usually Phillips head screws, hope that helps.

Thanks for the assistance. it came apart just fine. I did keep the lifters in order. I was able to pull the crankshaft gear without a hitch. Everything seems to be in great shape.Now for some clean up and reassembly.

Putting a little heat to the crankshaft timing gear before you reassemble it is a sneaky trick to make it go on a lot easier. 2-3 minutes with a Propane torch is about right- - - -not much chance of overdoing it. Use a set of welder's gloves to handle the hot gear and tap it on quickly with a brass or plastic hammer. Be sure the cam timing dot is facing forward!
Jerry

Might do that as well but am planning on drilling and tapping to bolt on the balancer. Then I can just push it on.