Note. The camshaft bearing caps are removed along with the rocker arm assembly. To prevent the camshaft from jumping out under the influence of the tension of the timing belt, ask the assistant to hold the shaft and immediately replace the end bearing cover (it is assumed that the timing belt is not removed).
Note. After removing the camshaft bearing caps, carefully check the condition of both the bearings themselves and their necks on the shaft (see Removal, condition check and installation of a camshaft).
Withdrawal
1. Remove the cylinder head cover (see Removal and installation of a cover of a head of cylinders.
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 position (TDC)).
3. Ask an assistant to hold the end of the camshaft facing the transmission, then, in several steps (1/4 turn per approach), in the required order (see illustration) Loosen the bearing cap bolts just enough to relieve the pressure exerted 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 atomizer from the cylinder head.
Examination
1. Having removed the rocker arm assembly, it would be wise to disassemble it in order to examine the condition of the components in more detail. Turn out fixing bolts and remove from axes of a yoke, springs and covers of bearings.
Attention! On VTEC-equipped engines, it is wise to secure the primary and secondary intake valve rocker arms with rubber bands. Mark the position of the axes of the rocker arms in relation to the bearing caps. Try to fold the removed components in the order of their installation, since during assembly they must be planted strictly in their original places.
2. Thoroughly clean the components and inspect them for signs of wear and damage. Assess the condition of the surfaces of the rocker arms in contact with 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 seats themselves. Defective components must be replaced. Also make sure that the oil passages are open. 3. Blow out the oil sprayer.
Installation
1. Lubricate all components with clean engine oil and install them in their regular places on the rocker shaft.
Note. Pay attention to the markings that distinguish left-handed components from right-handed ones.
2. On engines equipped with a VTEC system, replace the oil sprayer O-ring, then install the latter in its original place in the cylinder head.
3. Grease cams and necks of a camshaft with special adjusting greasing. Apply a thin layer of anaerobic sealant to the surfaces of the first and sixth camshaft bearing caps mating with the cylinder head, then install the rocker arm assembly in its original place.
4. In several steps in the correct order (see accompanying illustration) tighten bolts of fastening of covers of a camshaft with the demanded effort. 5. Further installation of components is carried out in the reverse order of their dismantling. In conclusion, do not forget to adjust the valve clearances (if there is a need) (see chapter Current service).
6. Start the engine and check for signs of oil leaks and normal operation.