AST tools? and Subaru cam gear tools?

[czgunner]

First off is AST still in business?
I haven't been able to access their web page in a while.
Secondly, I need some Subaru cam sprocket tools.
I'm an auto tech and we always do seals w/a timing belt job at my work (indy shop).
I have a few of the pin type for the metal sprockets, but I need the plastic hex type.
From my (confused) research, there are 3 different type?
If anybody can clear this up, I would appreciate it!

 

[DieselSaves]

I think they are still going. Their web page does come up for me tonight. They won't sell direct. You have to order through a physical dealer or online, at least that's what they've made me do.

http://asttool.com/front_page.php

 

[shockwave]

Try company 23 they make a lot of Subaru only tools rallysportdirect sells a lot of there tools

And also I have good luck with sir tools cam lock on Subarus aswell

 

[czgunner]

I saw the company 23 tools, but never heard of them.
Are they pro quality?

 

[shockwave]

I have used them quite a bit and work well but not as expensive as oe tools I know u can buy the oe tools from Subaru but not sure of website off the top of my head

 

[wafrederick]

The crankshaft pulley holder is real easy to make,don't have to buy this tool.I have seen one.

 

[woodstockva]

There are some new reviews for the company 23 products being done by Briansmobile1 on youtube. Here is the link to his channel -->

Here is the link to Company 23's website --> http://www.company23.com

I am sending the owner of Company 23 an email right now, so hopefully he will join GJ & reply to this thread.

 

[Ft.ValloniaStreaker]

I've done quite a few 2.5 DOHC and am trying to figure out how a special tool could help you. The pulleys have to come off to replace the seals anyway. Maybe I've just been lucky, or have a very strong grip.

 

[Company23]

There are some new reviews for the company 23 products being done by Briansmobile1 on youtube. Here is the link to his channel -->

Here is the link to Company 23's website --> http://www.company23.com

I am sending the owner of Company 23 an email right now, so hopefully he will join GJ & reply to this thread.

Daniel, thanks for the invite!

I saw the company 23 tools, but never heard of them.
Are they pro quality?

Our tools are being used by Subaru factory techs, independent mechanics, and DIY hobbyists. We actually do testing and use feedback from professional Subaru mechanics before we begin selling a tool. All the feedback we receive is that they work as good or better than the OEM tools while also being much less expensive (as well as made in the USA and carrying a lifetime warranty).

We'd love to answer any questions about our tools so feel free to fire away!

 

[Deej]

i use the ast subaru cam tool. the first one i had actually broke before i could get one of the cam bolts loose. i like it though.

 

[Deej]

if i remember right though, you can get a big wrench on the camshaft itself. i cant remember what size wrench you need though. you might also have to jack up the motor to get to the bottom cam though

 

[BK13]

Daniel, thanks for the invite!



Our tools are being used by Subaru factory techs, independent mechanics, and DIY hobbyists. We actually do testing and use feedback from professional Subaru mechanics before we begin selling a tool. All the feedback we receive is that they work as good or better than the OEM tools while also being much less expensive (as well as made in the USA and carrying a lifetime warranty).

We'd love to answer any questions about our tools so feel free to fire away!

Glad to see another factory rep on board. Welcome!

 

[MiseryBay]

I have the AMS tools. They seem to work alright. If I had to buy again I would get the Company 23 set.

 

[Company23]

if i remember right though, you can get a big wrench on the camshaft itself. i cant remember what size wrench you need though. you might also have to jack up the motor to get to the bottom cam though

Not all of the EJ engines have flats on the cams. Most of the newer EJs have round cams. In our experience, it gets really sketchy using the flats because even if you can fit a wrench in the head, you run the risk of the wrench slipping off due to how awkward it is. It also is a hassle to remove the valve cover if you just want to renew the cam seals during a timing belt job. That being said, it can be done on some engines (like the phase 1 DOHC EJ25) with some swearing.

 

[czgunner]

Company23, thanks for coming aboard!
Where are your tools manufactured?

 

[dede2897234]

Our tools are being used by Subaru factory techs, independent mechanics, and DIY hobbyists. We actually do testing and use feedback from professional Subaru mechanics before we begin selling a tool. All the feedback we receive is that they work as good or better than the OEM tools while also being much less expensive (as well as made in the USA and carrying a lifetime warranty).

We'd love to answer any questions about our tools so feel free to fire away!

czgunner, you will find your answer about the tools' COO above.


Dave

 

[c39er]

This is one of the needed tools for the DOHC subie that I used to use. I bought it from our local dealer. Close to $200.00 15 years ago!
It's a Kent Moore rtech tool, the real deal.
I have the other factory special tool for the passenger side that Subaru techs use too.

 

[shockwave]

I have also had luck with using a chain vise grip lightly by using an old belt that I cut to fit around sprocket to hold cam gear while the belt is of.

Or break nut loose while the belt is still on

If this can help u at all but a lot of times the sprockets are plastic and they will break while removing at times

 

[Company23]

Company23, thanks for coming aboard!
Where are your tools manufactured?

Made in the USA (and more specifically, made in Wisconsin!)

 

[rlitman]

I have also had luck with using a chain vise grip lightly by using an old belt that I cut to fit around sprocket to hold cam gear while the belt is of.

Or break nut loose while the belt is still on

If this can help u at all but a lot of times the sprockets are plastic and they will break while removing at times

On my SOHC, one of the sprockets was plastic. No way I'd put a chain on that.

I cut my old timing belt to be narrow enough to fit into a strap wrench, and used that to hold it. But I agree that if you're doing this a lot, a dedicated tool would be much better.

 

[czgunner]

I can find the tools on Amazone, but the freight is $10 each.
Is there a vendor that carries C23 that will combine freight?
Nevermind, I found toolsource.com...