How to distinguish the camshaft of Hyundai Elantra?
2 Answers
The intake camshaft usually has a camshaft position sensor installed at the front or rear, so the intake camshaft is longer. The intake camshaft has uppercase letter 'I' or 'IN' markings, while the exhaust camshaft has uppercase letter 'E' or 'EX' markings. The intake and exhaust camshafts can be distinguished by the position of the screws on the camshaft and the belt position. The intake camshaft usually has a signal trigger disc at the tail end, while the exhaust camshaft doesn't have one.
When I helped my friend repair his Hyundai Elantra engine last time, I noticed that the camshafts need to be distinguished carefully, otherwise the engine won't start if installed backward. The intake and exhaust camshafts look quite similar but are positioned differently—the intake side usually faces the air filter, while the exhaust side points toward the exhaust pipe. Small markings are engraved on the engine cover, such as 'IN' for the intake camshaft and 'EX' for the exhaust one, which can be spotted upon close inspection of the metal surface. Additionally, there are subtle dimensional differences; measuring the cam height with calipers reveals that the intake cam is generally slightly taller, optimized for smoother airflow control. Installing them incorrectly can lead to improper valve timing, causing engine misfires or even black smoke. It's advisable to double-check the markings and positions when replacing parts—this trick saves a lot of hassle. Always disconnect the battery for safety before starting any work.
