The primary function of a camshaft is to open and close the valves of the engine cylinders. Every modern car engine has one or more cams installed to ensure engine performance. A damaged cam can affect the efficiency and performance of your engine. To avoid problems, you must replace the damaged cam using a kit like the SBC cam kit. If you are uncertain about the performance of your cams, you can watch for signs that usually signal damage. There are at least five signs of a damaged camshaft.
1. Check Engine Light
The check engine light illuminates every time your car’s computer detects a problem in the engine. Unfortunately, the check engine light is known for being overly touchy in many makes and models. Still, you should never ignore the light because it can offer a warning of failing critical parts, like the camshaft.
If the camshaft is the culprit of the check engine light, you won’t get rid of the problem by simply rebooting the system. The light may turn off for a while, but it will reilluminate. The only way to fix the light and your engine problem is by replacing the damaged camshaft.
2. Loud Noises
When you start your engine or as you drive around, do you hear rattling, tapping, or ticking sounds? The sound may stem from a bad camshaft. When the thrust surface of the cam wears down, it can cause a rattling axially. Also, if the camshaft position sensor is off, it can cause knocking in the engine.
If you want your investment in drag tires to pay off, you need to ensure your engine is healthy and operating correctly. Camshafts play a critical role in performance, especially when you want to push your engine to its limits.
3. Debris in Engine Oil
As camshafts age and wear down, they might begin to shed metal shavings. The metal might appear in your engine oil. Every time you change your oil, inspect it for tiny, reflective specks of metal. When or if you see these flecks, it’s time to replace your cams.
4. Misfiring
Whether you drive an older vehicle with an Edelbrock 1913 or a newer car, camshafts are essential to power and performance. When they are going bad they can cause engine and cylinder misfires. Misfires can cause your vehicle to hesitate, shake, or jerk. Also, misfires can lead to transmission shifting problems. If your engine is misfiring, assess the camshafts.
5. Visible Corrosion or Damage
A bad camshaft is evident upon inspection. The part will usually have visual signs of corrosion or damage. Typically, the camshaft should last the life of the engine, but when you routinely push your vehicle’s engine to its limits, you can shorten the life of the part.
Camshafts are crucial engine components. If you believe something is wrong with your vehicle’s cams or have questions about engine performance, contact a local mechanic or auto parts dealer for help. Mechanics have the knowledge and expertise to diagnose minor to severe issues.
