Camshaft lock tool?

[Generalee0527]

So what is everyone using to keep cams in place when replacing timing chains and guides? Locking pliers or the tool?

 

[XR7-4.6]

There’s an OTC tool for it.

FORD CAM HOLDING SET | OTC Tools

otctools.com

Myself I prefer to just pop all the followers out and let the cams freewheel as I install the chains.

 

[Generalee0527]

There’s an OTC tool for it.

FORD CAM HOLDING SET | OTC Tools

otctools.com

Myself I prefer to just pop all the followers out and let the cams freewheel as I install the chains.

Thanks for the recommendation. I am comfortable doing that as I've done it on a 3v 5.4l. I probably should inspect them anyway as they are original and have a lot of miles on them. I Don't know why parts stores Don't rent the lock tool in my area. If it didn't take a week to arrive I would buy one.

 

[CDsDontBurn]

There's a kit on Amazon if you're willing to buy from there.

 

[KevinVarnes]

I've never done chains on a 4.6. Is there something special about them that requires this or is it just a "nice to have" tool? I don't usually use any kind of holding devices on chains or belts.

 

[XR7-4.6]

I've never done chains on a 4.6. Is there something special about them that requires this or is it just a "nice to have" tool? I don't usually use any kind of holding devices on chains or belts.

The valve springs will rotate the cam when you release tension, and when setting timing at TDC there’s a chance a valve can kiss a piston. With the tool you can rotate the engine to TDC, lock the cams, swap the chains dot to dot and done.


….But…. You really need two of the tools for it to be that convenient since you have to do the left chain before the right, which is one reason why I prefer to pop the followers instead.

 

[Grog6]

popping the followers out males it easy.