How to distinguish between intake and exhaust camshafts in Wuling Hongguang?
3 Answers
In Wuling Hongguang, the letter 'i' on the camshaft represents intake, and 'e' represents exhaust. The main body of the camshaft is a cylindrical rod approximately the same length as the cylinder group. The camshaft is fitted with several cams, whose function is to drive the intake and exhaust valves to open and close. Both the intake and exhaust camshafts are equipped with a drive wheel, which is directly driven by a chain or belt to rotate the camshaft. Camshaft maintenance methods: 1. Inspection of camshaft journal wear: First clean the camshaft thoroughly, then measure directly with an outside micrometer. If the wear exceeds the allowable range, replace the camshaft. 2. Inspection of the fit clearance between the camshaft journal and the bore: Measure the inner diameter of the journal bore with a camshaft journal gauge, and measure the size of the corresponding camshaft journal with an outside micrometer. The difference between the two is the fit clearance. 3. Inspection of cam lift: Position the camshaft as above, place the dial indicator pointer against the cam surface of the camshaft for direct measurement. If the measured value exceeds the allowable value, replace the camshaft.
With decades of experience in auto repair, I've encountered many Wuling Hongguang owners inquiring about camshaft issues. The intake and exhaust camshafts are positioned differently in the engine: the intake one is closer to the air filter or front side, usually marked with an 'I' or arrow indicating its role in drawing fresh air; the exhaust camshaft is near the exhaust pipe or rear side, often labeled 'E', specifically for expelling exhaust gases. You can remove the engine cover to observe the structure—Wuling Hongguang engines typically have these two shafts arranged parallel, with the intake connected more directly to the air pipe. If markings are unclear, check valve operation: when manually rotating the shaft, the intake valve opens briefly for fuel efficiency, while the exhaust valve opens earlier for quicker expulsion. Mixing them up can cause unstable engine performance or excessive fuel consumption, so I recommend taking a reference photo before each repair.
I've been driving the Wuling Hongguang for several years. When I first started learning car repair, I couldn't distinguish between the intake and exhaust camshafts. Later, I discovered that the intake camshaft is mostly located on the driver's side of the engine, connected to the intake manifold where air mixes with fuel; the exhaust camshaft is positioned closer to the rear of the vehicle, linked to the exhaust pipe outlet. The Wuling Hongguang manual includes simple diagrams marking the shaft directions. If unsure, observe the cam profiles: intake cams are designed with smaller lift for precise air control, while exhaust cams may be slightly larger to expel gases faster. Never overlook details in daily maintenance - I once nearly installed them backwards causing starting issues, but fortunately a friend reminded me to check sensor signals with a multimeter to avoid trouble.
