Twin Overhead Cam Tool

[djkeev]

I replaced the timing belt on a 2003 Volvo S40 the other night for a buddy. What a pain in the A$$ to keep the cam gears in place when set on the timing marks!

I realized I need yet another tool in my tool box!

But which one? Or do I need more than one?

I mostly work on "imported" small engine autos, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, VW, etc.

I don't want a brand specific tool but rather a one unit fits most type of tool. Not 100% proper for any car but for occassional use, it gets the job done!
For example, because of the variable valve timing setup on the exhaust cam of the Volvo, I could not use option 1 or 3.

Here is a photo showing option 2 in use on the s40. Notice the variable timing apparatus on the rear belt sprocket. I pulled this image off of a Volvo web site....thanks!

What have you guys found to be the best "universal" holder?

Option 1
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SQZPY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

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Option 2
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00396F82M/?tag=atomicindus08-20

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Option 3
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015PMSGI/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[jzt]

Also available:

I normally use two wooden wedges and a long bolt with a wing nut.

 

[djkeev]

........ I normally use two wooden wedges and a long bolt with a wing nut.

Would you have a photo of your wooden setup you can post on here?

Thanks!

Dave

 

[t100]

I've done just couple Mazda's and Toyota's, never been a Volvo. all I used were couple long tie wraps to tie up between the 2 gears, some people tie up the gears with belt.

some are more creative:

 

[djkeev]

I've done just couple Mazda's and Toyota's, never been a Volvo. all I used were couple long tie wraps to tie up between the 2 gears, some people tie up the gears with belt.

some are more creative:

Dang! That's just stupid simple!

Dave

 

[jzt]

 

[djkeev]

Not stupid simple like the bolt and nut, but easy enough to make with wood scrap and miscellaneous hardware, thanks for posting!

Sometimes I think I'm fairly clever and often come up with simple solutions to problems, but coming up with something to hold these sprockets using a simple and quick to create "make do" tool just didn't happen!

Dave

 

[lasthope05]

You can also use zip ties. Put the belt on top of both cam gears and put zip ties on both end. Only tighten one end first and leave the other loose. Use a wrench to spin the cam on the loose side and then tight when lined up. Never really needed a tool.

 

[i need a garage]

I tried your #3 there on miata. it didn't work too well. I got another timing belt job coming and also wondering what new tricks to try out

 

[Fedwrench]

The red one shown in the photo and listed as amazon private brand is actually made by KD. You can get it for $17 plus shipping from cripe distributing. Buy 2 for double cams. Also never underestimate the aid of a simple spring loaded binder clip to hold a belt where you want it.

 

[1320stang]

I used cheap spring clamps. This works if you're just changing the belt, I counted the teeth on the belt between points, made marks on the pulleys and the old belt, then match it up to the new belt.

Also, don't trust the marks that come on the belts, I did a Nissan Quest one time and the marks were wrong.

 

[richfinn]

If you have the rocker cover off you can slacken off a cam carrier bearing cap, slide a bit of paper under it and tighten back up and it will lock the cam for you.

 

[5mall5nail5]

We do it on the backside on most BMWs