What is the function of the camshaft?
4 Answers
Automobile camshaft is responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the valves. Below are the key points about the camshaft: 1. Camshaft: It is a component in piston engines. Although in four-stroke engines, the camshaft rotates at half the speed of the crankshaft, its rotational speed is still very high, and it needs to withstand significant torque. Therefore, the design requires high strength and robust support for the camshaft, which is typically made of high-quality alloy steel or alloy steel. 2. If: The oil pump fails to provide sufficient oil pressure due to prolonged use, or the lubrication passages are blocked preventing oil from reaching the camshaft, or the bearing cap fastening bolts are over-tightened preventing oil from entering the camshaft clearance, all these can lead to abnormal wear of the camshaft. 3. Abnormal wear of the camshaft: This can cause an increase in the clearance between the camshaft and the bearing seat, leading to axial displacement of the camshaft during operation, which in turn produces abnormal noise. 4. When installing the bearing cap: Pay attention to the directional arrows and position numbers marked on the surface of the bearing cap, and strictly follow the specified torque using a torque wrench to tighten the bearing cap fastening bolts.
The camshaft acts like a precise timer inside the engine, specifically controlling the opening and closing rhythm of the intake and exhaust valves. It uses the shape of its cams to push the rocker arms or tappets, ensuring the valves open or close at critical moments—such as opening the fuel intake during the suction stroke or allowing exhaust gases to escape during the exhaust stroke. This coordination is essential for the smooth transition of the engine's four strokes; otherwise, the car's performance may suffer, or fuel consumption could spike. From my experience with numerous automotive cases, a worn camshaft often leads to severe engine idle vibrations and even rattling noises. During routine maintenance, don’t overlook checking the tension of the belt or chain to prolong its service life.
The most frustrating thing about driving is when the power doesn't respond promptly, and the camshaft plays a huge role—it controls valve timing, directly affecting acceleration and responsiveness. Standard camshafts prioritize low-RPM comfort, while high-performance versions excel in explosive power, making the car feel like it surges forward the moment you press the throttle. Poor design or wear can cause the engine to struggle for breath, with air-fuel mixture failing to enter and exhaust gases unable to escape, leaving the car sluggish. It's recommended to inspect camshaft components, including gear synchronization and wear, during every major service to prevent misalignment from causing bigger issues.
Camshaft failure is no simple matter: it determines the valve opening/closing angles and duration. If stuck or eccentric, valves won't open on time, leading to insufficient air-fuel mixture intake and blocked exhaust. This may cause ignition failure, slow starting, or weak idle. Consequences include sudden fuel consumption spikes and knocking noises. Prompt repair prevents chain reactions - for camshaft component replacement, always consult professional technicians for timing chain adjustment.
