Valve Train Archives - Import Car
VarioCam: Understanding Porsche’s VVT Technology

Originally developed for the 2001 Porsche 911 Turbo, VarioCam changes the valve timing to increase power & reduce emissions.

Diagnosing Variable Valve Timing

Fully variable valve timing can be achieved only by using computer-operated solenoids to precisely control the intake and exhaust valve opening and closing events. Although the various combinations of valve timing events are theoretically infinite on an electronically controlled system, their applications are limited due to issues of cost and, in some cases, reliability.

Tech Tip: Kia Constant Variable Valve Timing Oil Control Valve Inspection

This bulletin provides information related to the oil control valve (OCV) used in constant variable valve timing (CVVT) systems. If, at any time, the OCV is suspected as a cause of rough idling, poor acceleration, camshaft timing misalignment-related trouble codes, misfire-related trouble codes, etc., on a Kia vehicle equipped with a CVVT system, be sure to perform the OCV inspection procedure in this bulletin before replacement.

TIMMING BELTS: Bridging The Service Gap-CRP

By David Hirschhornt, CRP Automotive   Remember the good ol’ days when your customers came in for regularly scheduled maintenance? Oil change at 3,000 miles, tire rotation at 5,000, tune up at 10,000, and so on. While these helped you keep their vehicles in good shape, a hidden, but truly valuable benefit was the “advanced

Nissan VVT Diagnostics – Boosting Engine Performance, Fuel Economy And Emissions

Due to the ability of Nissan’s variable valve timing system to provide increased engine performance, Bob Dowie offers his diagnostic, electronic and mechanical expertise for how import vehicle specialists can most effectively perform engine service.

Phaser-Style Variable Valve Timing System Controls And Operation

Phasers commonly can be found on just the exhaust cam or on both the intake and exhaust cams.

Memory Lane: Nuts, Bolts And Screws – Finishing A Chevy Restoration Project

Gary Goms discusses the mechanical challenges of restoring a truck that he began maintaining when he went to work in a gas station – back in 1957!

The Ins and Outs of Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Systems and Their Role in Vehicle Emissions

By the early 1990s, almost all import automotive manufacturers had a successful variable valve timing (VVT) system in production. These systems offered higher performance from smaller displacement engines at higher rpm. Do you know that VVT is playing a direct role in vehicle emissions and the way gases are burned in the combustion chamber?

Book Report: Tips for Ford Power Stroke Service and Rebuilds

The book covers the vast majority of Power Stroke diesel engines on the road, and gives you the full story on their design.

Tech Spec: Nailing Down the Misunderstood Buick Nailhead

Like the Small Block Chevy, the Rocket 88 Olds, the Ford Flathead and the Chrysler Hemi, the Buick Nailhead engine is one of those that has the immortal smell of history all over it. Yet, unlike its more familiar brothers, cousins and even competitors, the Nailhead has an aura of mystery about it as well.

Tech Tip: Measuring Valve Spring Retainer Height

To achieve the proper valve spring height while using the minimum amount of valve spring shims can be challenging when working with applications that use other than stock components.

Tech Feature: Family Ties – Servicing Chrysler’s Versatile 3.3L and 3.8L Engines

First introduced as a family back in 1990, these engines have been upgraded and improved to provide good torque for the necessary applications, reasonable fuel economy and a reputation for durability and appropriate performance.