audipwr1

You think you could see the deviation all of a sudden if cam bolts are backing out?

Hmm maybe I should try checking this

Tom@TPC Racing

When bolts are backing out, you'll hear all kinds of ruckus, CEL, low oil pressure warning...so no need to continue to run the engine to check the cam deviation. Should the engine continues to run the cam deviation would be maxed out due to zero oil pressure operating the flaps inside the actuator.

bonehead

Lots of threads on the cam bolt issue. Wasn't sure where to post this question, so I just picked this thread instead of starting another.
Let me first say, I love this car. Only put on about 300 miles so far, but it's glorious. But the two issues that are forever on my mind are the coolant pipes and the cam actuator bolts. I try to be hypervigilant about any changes in the sounds from the transmission. While I know it makes quite a ruckus at idle with the clutch out, is it normal for it to still sound like a bag of marbles (albeit less so) with the clutch engaged and driving at low speed? I never noticed it before but heard it today while negotiating a parking lot. Just trying to stay ahead of any potential (catastrophic) problems.

ranger22

Do you have cup car cables installed? It's a popular mod and it will give you that sound at lower speeds.

bonehead

Not that I'm aware of. If I don't, is it concerning that I'm getting the rattle at low speeds?

Auto_Werks 3.6

if the car is a stock base GT3 with dual mass flywheel, it should be fairly quiet. RS cars make some noise that the owners refer to as part of the “character”.

bonehead

It's a 7.2 RS with the SMFW. I'm ok with character. I'm not ok with impending motor implosion

ranger22

I don't think you can tell until it's too late. I really don't believe there are any warning signs of the bolts backing out.

bonehead

Well, that's a mixed blessing, I guess. But I do recall one member here stating that he heard something not quite right with the normal rattle. Shut it down and fortunately saved himself from replacing the motor. Who knows if he actually heard something or just luck. I'd have to find the post.

bonehead

From the harmonic dampener thread. I think this was the post I was referring to earlier. This RL'er states he heard a rattle. Although, contrary to what I thought, I think the damage was already done at that point.

MJFDDS

In my experience and on my car, you will still hear the LWFW at slow speed and low RPM.

bonehead

Just what I wanted to hear. Thanks!

SupraSaiyan

Since I'm in the process of having my coolant pipes pinned on my 2011 RS, I will be checking the cam actuator bolts. Assuming they are in spec, would anyone recommend taking them out and putting thread locker on the bolt and retorque? If so, is the torque specs the same on both sides? TIA

bonehead

I don't think there's a published torque spec on these bolts because they were never meant to be removed and reused. If you find an answer, let us know.

Are you getting the lines pinned as a precautionary measure or did one of them let go?

misterwaterfall

Why not just sire them while you're in there? Pretty quick and easy and should ensure that they don't work themselves loose.