The Defector

So the way I see it there is no mod to prevent a "spun" camshaft. Correct?

Also when they do fail is there a potential for the valves to hit the pistons or is it just camshafts that will need replacing?

Thanks,
JC

Kevin

No mod to prevent..

The valves will NOT hit the pistons. You just lose variocam function.

The Defector

Thanks! So it just a SIMPLE replace the cam issue, if it occurs.

Kevin

Simple as in $8500 leaves your wallet.

The Defector

Yah that's what I meant by simple. Simply painfully expensive. Also Do not believe I'm simple minded enough to try the repair myself.

Craig T.

I know about welding or pinning the coolant tubes, but this is the first I've heard of the camshaft issue.

How often does the "spun" camshaft issue pop-up? Is it one of those "Not if, but when" problems?

Edit...Doing a "camshaft" post search now, so insults please. LOL

AudiOn19s

I don't think I ever saw the end pictures of the pinned cam when I was looking for them. Is it possible to pin them in the car if you've already got the motor out for the coolant fittings?

Craig - this isn't nearly on the level of coolant fittings. The question is are more and more going to happen as our cars age or are they going to be isolated cases still?

Ibanezgod

there is a whole thread on this topic. Suggest OP search this section. Believe it was started by CincyScott

Kevin

This give one an idea of what is involved. The intake camshafts need to be replaced or pinned. This requires the engine to be removed and stripped down to the long block>>a lot of labor...

In the larger scope of things, the coolant fitting at the oil/water heat exchanger fail at a greater rate. I think that there are 6 Rennlisters that have had camshaft failures in the last 2 years..

The Defector

WOW Kevin. THAT's a lot of work!!!
If you pin the cam won't that disable the variocam feature as well?

Kevin

Yes, it is..

No you won't disable the Vario cam.. Pinning is a term used to isolate the sleeve from turning inside the hollow camshaft. It does not hinder the function of the cam or Variocam module.

The Defector

Forgive me but then wouldn't that be a way of preventing the failure, to pin it before it goes bad?

nzskater

Given that the failure is not catastrophic, the repair is the same job as the preventative maintenance, and that there has only been a very small percentage of failures to date, it would not make sense to pin it before it fails.

estrellajon

Thanks Kevin for all the insight on this issue.

The Defector

Well that makes sense. Thanks.

Indeed! THANKS Kevin. Your name pops up all over the forum with answers.