A camshaft is the part of your vehicle that functions in regulating and ensuring that specific parts of your car run smoothly. The most important function appears to be regulating the valve’s timing to take in the fresh air and kick out the exhaust.
You can identify an unknown camshaft by its structure, by the use of the stamp numbers on the camshafts, or by the use of the analog system. Whichever one you end up using, the goal is to avoid getting the wrong camshaft in your car.
How to Identify Unknown Camshaft
Below are procedures for identifying an unknown camshaft using the three recognized methods:
Method One: By Their Structure
It’s easy to tell the difference between some camshafts by just having a look at them. There are two specific camshafts; they are flat-tapped camshafts and roller camshafts. You can easily tell their differences based on how they appeared. They don’t look exactly the same.
Method Two: The Use of Numbers
Stamp numbers are numbers that help in identifying different camshafts. The stamp number is a nine-digit code, engraved between in the camshaft. It is easy to check. With these codes, you can easily know which is good enough for your car.
Here are a few ways to tell the difference:
Through The Prefix Number
The prefix number reveals the model of your car; it is the first part of your camshaft number. Knowing this will help you decide which camshaft is compatible with your car.
For example, you can tell if a camshaft is made for a Toyota or a Chevrolet by checking the prefix number.
Through The Exhaust Number
In case you see a number like 266/286 on your camshaft, the end number “286” represents the exhaust number. The exhaust number also helps in telling a difference.
G@ind Number on the Camshaft
With the use of the g@ind number on the camshaft, you can know the measurement of a separation angle, which assists with telling the differences between the camshafts.
For example, if you see a number like 266HO4, the last two digits’ numbers are what is used to show the measurement. The numbers all have their meanings and interpretations.
The letter “H” represents the hydraulic filters but if you see an “S”, it means your camshaft has a solid filter system and not a hydraulic system. Figure “266”, shows that the valve will remain open for 266 seconds.
Method Three: The Use of Analog System
This method is used when you can’t simply get your hands on a degree roller or a metal indicator. It will require a little more effort because you’ll need to measure some diameters and then make a comparison to the available catalog or database.
You’ll need to measure the diameter of the blushing support shaft and as well, the length of the heel. You are expected to have a range after all measurements are done, and as well compare these ranges to the database or any online shop IDs.
These are the possible ways to identify unknown camshaft. You can make use of any method/procedure explained above.
What Do the Numbers on a Camshaft Mean?
Most numbers you will find on your camshaft all have a function, except the casting number which is a random number to help manufacturers identify their production rates.
The numbers on camshafts are there to indicate the compatibility of a camshaft to a car and its functioning ability.
Chevy Camshaft Identification Numbers
Locating the camshaft identification number of a Chevy is an easy process.
- Locate the ID Number: Firstly, locate the ID number on the camshaft. The ID numbers are either nine or eight-digit numbers,
- Check the Last four Numbers: When you find it, check out the last four numbers. The last four numbers will help you identify the camshaft and how it can be applied.
- Match the Numbers: When you are done with that, simply do a matching of the number to a Chevrolet camshaft part number listing and you can confirm if you have the right one or not.
Conclusion
A camshaft is an important part of your engine that needs to be gotten right. With the engraved numbers on your camshaft, you can easily tell a difference and pick the best for your car. If you still find it difficult to identify an unknown camshaft, speak to a specialist for clarity.