Poncam install

[Funktown240]

I have a set of Tomei 256 Poncams on the way and needed some advice and tips to avoid disaster. I'm familiar with with timing belt, I replaced the water pump and timing belt a couple of months ago. I searched these forums and the FSM instructions are very vauge. Should I turn the motor to TDC before cam removal? Any help would be very much appreciated, I'm excited to see what the power gain is.

[Carl H]

pretty simple to install, tear down is the same as a tbelt except you remove the cam gears as well.

get a new cam seal set as you'll want to replace them while the motor is apart.
follow the fsm diagram for removal (bolt sequence) and you should be fine...just move slowly and remove each cap little by little.

[Funktown240]

Yeah I have cam seals on the way too. Gonna defiantly take my time, hope everything goes well.

[robbie2883]

setting the motor to tdc will deff make setting the timing again much easier. otherwise like carl said....loosen a little at a time. loosen a little on on cam journal...then move the next in line and loosen it a little. never undo one cam journal all the way with the others still tightened down

[Darius]

READ THIS CAREFULLY:

1) Rotate engine CW so #1 is at TDC.
2) Reverse engine CCW so #1 is lowered back into the bore more than 1/2". Use socket extension through spark plug hole to determine this.
3) Remove and install new cams following the advice of others above.
4) Align cam gears to the TDC mark on rear timing cover.
5) Rotate engine CW so #1 is at TDC.
6) Install timing belt.

Installing the cams with #1 and #6 at TDC can result in piston to valve contact while tightening down the cam. I did this a long time ago and broke my #6 valve. I know someone else who has done the exact same thing and is in the process of repairing a piston and replacing a valve.

[Funktown240]

Thanks for the input guys! I will let you know how it goes.

[ralphsdiorama]

setting the motor to tdc will deff make setting the timing again much easier. otherwise like carl said....loosen a little at a time. loosen a little on on cam journal...then move the next in line and loosen it a little. never undo one cam journal all the way with the others still tightened down

Agreed. Snapped my stock exhaust cam by not taking my time. Although it was a convenient excuse for me to get my poncams Good luck!

[Funktown240]

Not gonna be able to install these bad boys cause I wrecked my car and am parting everything out. If anyone wants some Poncams for silver CAS, $425 shipped. I don't have the time/energy to start another S13 from scratch, maybe in a couple years Ill be back and do a RB30 project You guys are very helpful and will check the RB forums from time to time and maybe lend a helping hand if I can.

PLEASE PM ME ABOUT CAMS

[Darius]

Sorry to hear that. That sucks! Glad you are alright though.