OEM 2004 Dodge Dakota Camshaft

2004 Dodge Dakota Camshaft Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Remove the Left Camshaft on 2004 Dodge Dakota?

  A: Removing the left camshaft should start with clearing the timing chain, since forcing the camshafts to move while the others are stationary can seriously harm nearby moving parts. Special Tool 8379 prevents the hydraulic tensioner ratchet from being overextended when removing the cam sprocket, timing chains or camshaft. The first step is to take out the cylinder head cover and align the engine so that TDC is at cylinder #1 while V6 marks on the camshaft sprocket are at 12 o'clock. On both sides of the V6 mark, identify and label a link on the secondary timing chain that will help with installation. Do not press down on the camshaft target wheel, as you could damage it. Be careful not to release the camshaft sprocket bolt while loosening it so the tensioners remain locked and there is no extension. Place Special Tool 8379 between the timing chain and touch it with a tool to hold the chain against the tensioner arm and guide. While using Special Tool 8428, remove the bolt and the sprocket, then turn the camshaft 5° clockwise to make it neutral before continuing. Turn the bolts at the bottom of the camshaft bearing caps counterclockwise, one-half turn at a time, until the load is off them, trying not to hit them as you remove the bolts. Make a mark on the rocker arms first, before you remove the camshaft and its bearing caps. Before installation, grease the camshaft journals, insert the left side camshaft so the sprocket dowel is close to 1 o'clock and you will find it easier to put on the bearing caps. Installing the camshaft bearing caps in order means bending the #1 cap inward and placing it at the front and so forth. Holding the cap, tighten the bolts by increments of 1/2 turn, beginning from the center cap moving outward and then fasten them to 11 Nm (100 inch lbs.). Place the camshaft drive gear on the V6 mark, move the camshaft with Special Tool 8428 until the sprocket dowel fits into the slot and then install the sprocket on the camshaft. Remove any leftover oil from the sprocket bolt, secure the retaining bolt by hand first and next take off the timing chain wedge. Use Special Tool 6958 and adapter pins 8346 to turn the camshaft sprocket retaining bolt to 122 Nm (90 ft. lbs.) and add the cylinder head cover again.