Note: The camshaft bearing caps are removed together with the rocker arm assembly. To prevent the camshaft from jumping out under the effect of the timing belt tension, ask an assistant to hold the shaft and immediately reinstall the outer bearing cap (it is assumed that the timing belt is not removed).
Note: After removing the camshaft bearing caps, carefully inspect the condition of both the bearings themselves and their journals on the shaft (see Removal, condition check and installation of the camshaft).
Removal
1. Remove the cylinder head cover (see Removal and installation the cylinder head cover.
2. Bring the piston of the first cylinder to the TDC position (see Bringing the piston of the first cylinder to the top dead center (TDC) position).
3. Have an assistant hold the transmission end of the camshaft, then, in several steps, (1/4 turn per set), in the required order (see illustration) loosen the bearing cap bolts just enough to remove the force generated by the valve springs.
4. Remove the rocker arm assembly with axles from the cylinder head (see accompanying illustration). Oil sprayer (vTEC engines only)
5. Remove the nozzle from the cylinder head.
Examination
1. After removing the rocker arm assembly, it is a good idea to disassemble it to examine the components in more detail. Remove the mounting bolts and remove the rocker arms, springs, and bearing caps from the axles.
Caution! On engines equipped with the VTEC system, it is wise to secure the primary and secondary intake rocker arms with rubber bandages. Mark the position of the rocker arm shafts in relation to the bearing caps. Try to stack the removed components in the order they were installed, since they must be seated strictly in their original places during assembly.
2. Clean the components thoroughly and inspect them for signs of wear and damage. Assess the condition of the rocker arm surfaces that contact the camshaft (see accompanying illustration). Check for scoring and signs of excessive wear on the rocker arm seating surfaces on the axles, as well as the walls of the rocker arm seating pockets themselves. Defective components must be replaced. Also make sure that the oil flow is clear. 3. Blow out the oil sprayer.
Installation
1. Lubricate all components with clean engine oil and install them in their original locations on the rocker arm shaft.
Note: Pay attention to the markings that distinguish left-hand components from right-hand components.
2. On engines equipped with the VTEC system, replace the oil sprayer sealing ring, then install the latter in its regular place in the cylinder head.
3. Lubricate the cams and journals of the camshaft with a special installation grease. Apply a thin layer of anaerobic sealant to the mating surfaces of the first and sixth camshaft bearing caps with the cylinder head, then install the rocker arm assembly in its regular place.
4. In several steps in the correct order (see accompanying illustration) tighten the camshaft cover mounting bolts to the required torque. 5. Further installation of components is carried out in the reverse order of their dismantling. Finally, do not forget to adjust the valve clearances (if there is a need for it) (See Chapter Routine maintenance).
6. Start the engine and check it for signs of oil leaks and proper operation.